When it comes to celebrating life’s special moments, nothing quite compares to the effervescence of a glass of sparkling wine. But while many people are familiar with Champagne, there’s another sparkling wine gaining global recognition and it’s made right here in South Africa. Let’s dive into the world of Cap Classique, the sparkling wine that’s taking the world by storm, with Groot Phesantekraal proudly crafting its own exceptional expression of this beloved style.

What is Cap Classique?

Cap Classique is South Africa’s answer to Champagne, A premium sparkling wine crafted using the traditional method, where a second fermentation takes place inside the bottle to create its signature fine bubbles. What sets Cap Classique apart is its ability to capture the essence of South Africa’s diverse terroirs while maintaining the same rigorous production standards as the world’s finest sparkling wines. The name itself is a tribute to its origins and craftsmanship: “Cape” represents the Cape of Good Hope, the heart of South Africa’s wine industry, while “Classique” signifies the time-honoured winemaking techniques used to produce this elegant, expressive wine.

Cap Classique’s history in South Africa

Cap Classique was introduced to South Africa in the early 1970s, thanks to winemaker Frans Malan of Simonsig Estate. After visiting France’s Champagne region in 1968, Malan was inspired by the traditional method of bottle-fermented sparkling wine. Upon returning home, he experimented with the technique using Chenin Blanc grapes, crafting South Africa’s first bottle-fermented sparkling wine from the 1971 harvest. Released in 1973 under the name Kaapse Vonkel (“Cape Sparkle”), this milestone marked the beginning of South Africa’s Cap Classique industry, which has since flourished with over 250 producers embracing this time-honoured winemaking tradition. Cap Classique has become a symbol of South Africa’s innovation and quality in winemaking.

How is Cap Classique Made?

The creation of Cap Classique is a meticulous, hands-on process that ensures each bottle reaches its full sparkling potential. It begins with primary fermentation, where the base wine is crafted as a still wine before skilled winemakers carefully blend different batches to achieve the perfect flavour profile. The magic happens during secondary fermentation where sugar and yeast are added to the base wine, and the mixture is bottled, allowing natural carbonation to develop. To refine the wine, a traditional process called riddling gradually tilts and rotates the bottles, guiding the yeast sediment to the neck. This sediment is then removed through disgorging, where the neck is frozen, and the unwanted particles are ejected, leaving a crystal-clear wine. A final touch of dosage, a small addition of sugar or wine, ensures the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity before the bottle is corked and ready to be enjoyed. It’s a labour of love, with each step requiring precision and patience, ensuring that every bottle is a work of art.

Cap Classique vs Champagne

Although Cap Classique and Champagne are both made using the same method, there are a few distinct differences between the two:

• Region: Champagne can only be produced in the Champagne region of France, while Cap Classique is exclusive to South Africa.
• Grape Varieties: While Champagne uses a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, Cap Classique often includes these varieties but may also feature others, such as Chenin Blanc or even Pinotage, a unique South African grape. These grapes are the backbone of Cap Classique grapes that make the wine exceptional.
• Flavour Profile: Champagne tends to have a more mineral-driven and complex profile due to the cooler, chalky soils of the Champagne region. Cap Classique, on the other hand, often offers a more fruit-forward, ripe character that reflects the warmer South African climate.
• Price: Cap Classique price is often more affordable than Champagne, making it a fantastic option for sparkling wine lovers who appreciate a quality product at a great value.

What to Pair with Cap Classique

Cap Classique’s crisp acidity and fine bubbles make it an incredibly versatile wine for food pairings, effortlessly elevating a wide range of dishes. Its bright citrus notes and refreshing minerality complement fresh seafood like oysters, prawns, and sushi, enhancing their delicate flavours. Creamy cheeses such as Brie or Camembert beautifully balance the wine’s lively effervescence, while charcuterie boards featuring prosciutto and smoked salmon create a delightful contrast of textures. For heartier pairings, Cap Classique shines alongside roasted chicken, buttery lobster, or even truffle-infused dishes, where its acidity cuts through the richness. And of course, no celebration is complete without a glass of Cap Classique alongside a classic pairing of strawberries and fine chocolate.

Cap Classique at Groot Phesantekraal

Durbanville’s cool climate and unique terroir make it an outstanding region for crafting Cap Classique wines in South Africa, known for its crisp acidity and refined complexity. At Groot Phesantekraal, we embrace these ideal conditions to produce a sparkling wine that exudes both freshness and elegance. The region’s natural influences enhance the wine’s vibrant minerality, delicate mousse, and beautifully layered flavours. Combining tradition with innovation, our Cap Classique is a true reflection of Durbanville’s exceptional terroir, delivering a sophisticated and celebratory drinking experience. Our exceptional Cap Classique reflects the perfect combination of elegance and flavour:

Cap Classique Blanc de Blanc 2022

The Cap Classique Blanc de Blanc 2022 is produced in a classic, fresh style with vivacity and linearity. The wine has a luring lemon curd character together with wet stone, which beautifully follows through to the palate to create a round yet salivating effect. The secondary attributes of the wine, such as brioche and leasy characters, are due to malolactic fermentation and 22 months of lease contact during bottle ageing.

Food Pairing

Beautiful fresh, crisp flavours with lovely creamy notes combine well with fresh lemony salads such as a Salmon Niçoise, light sushi, or freshly shucked oysters. Bubbles for breakfast? Of course, this Cap Classique will certainly add a festive note to a traditional English breakfast or brunch with all the trimmings.

Cap Classique Blanc de Blanc 2022 is available for R275.00.

Cap Classique Tasting at Groot Phesantekraal

A visit to Groot Phesantekraal is about more than just wine. It’s an immersive experience that celebrates the essence of South African winemaking. Enjoy a farm-style dining experience at our on-site restaurant, where fresh, seasonal dishes are perfectly paired with our handcrafted Cap Classique. Indulge in a wine tasting that highlights the finesse and complexity of our sparkling wines, each bottle reflecting the character of Durbanville’s cool climate and rich terroir.

As you take in the breathtaking vineyard views, consider joining The Wine Herd, our exclusive wine club, where members enjoy special perks like discounts, priority access to new releases, and invitations to exclusive events.Next time you raise a glass, make it a Groot Phesantekraal MCC wine and experience the best Cap Classique in South African sparkling wine. Visit our website to explore membership benefits, place an order, or learn more info about what makes Groot Phesantekraal’s Method Cap Classique truly exceptional.