Recently, I had the pleasure of discovering South African sparkling wines, and I was impressed by what I found. My experience began with a surprising revelation: South Africa has been crafting sparkling wines since 1971. It all started when Frans Malan, a visionary winemaker from Simonsig Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, was inspired by his visit to the Champagne region of France in 1968. With his background in chemistry, Malan was interested in the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle and decided to bring this concept back to South Africa. In 1971, he produced the first bottle-fermented sparkling wine, Kaapse Vonkel (“Cape Sparkle”), released it in 1973 and paved the way for a new era in South African winemaking. Today, South African sparkling wines, known as Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), are made using the same traditional method as Champagne. This process involves a two-stage fermentation, with the second fermentation occurring in the bottle, creating the signature bubbles. The main grape varieties used are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Chenin Blanc, which adds a unique South African twist with its acidity and flavors of green apple and tropical fruits.
The region’s diverse terroir plays a significant role in the quality of these wines. Areas like Robertson, with its limestone-rich soils, and the cool climate regions of Elgin and Hemel-en-Aarde, contribute to the wines’ minerality and freshness. The Western Cape’s climate, influenced by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, ensures that the grapes retain their acidity, resulting in fresh and crisp sparkling wines.
The term Méthode Cap Classique was officially adopted in 1992 to refer to South African sparkling wines made using the traditional method. South Africa is now home to over 250 wineries producing MCC, with the category experiencing rapid growth. The Cap Classique Producers Association, established in 1992, promotes these premium wines and ensures they adhere to strict production standards, including a minimum of 12 months aging on the lees. As of 2023, there were 82 members of the Cap Classique Producers Association, showing significant growth in the category.
Pieter Ferreira, the Chief Operating Officer for Graham Beck was coming to Dallas, but I was in London dropping off my kiddo for college, so they sent wines for me to try. Unfortunately, Peter and I couldn’t coordinate schedules, but I was excited to try several sparkling wines from one of the top South African wineries.
Graham Beck Winery, located in the Robertson region of South Africa’s Western Cape, is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines produced using the MCC technique. Founded in 1983 by Graham Beck, the winery has become a significant player in the South African wine industry, particularly known for its high-quality Cap Classique offerings. Other notable producers include Simonsig, Villiera, Colmant, and Le Lude with top production regions of Robertson, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia.
The Robertson area has a diurnal temperature range that enhances grape quality, with maritime breezes contributing to the ideal growing conditions. The winery emphasizes sustainable practices, including water recycling and solar energy use, and has been recognized for its conservation efforts.
I really enjoyed these wines and am excited to see a region making sparkling more affordable – between $18 and $30 each bottle in their portfolio. My line-up included the following:
- NV Graham Beck Brut – this blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir has notes of green apple, citrus, pineapple and baked bread.
- 2018 Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs — made from 100% Chardonnay, this vintage sparkler displays a pale-yellow color with fine bubbles. I tasted notes lime, peach, green apple, apricot and brioche from extended lees aging.
- NV Graham Beck Bliss Nectar — his demi-sec style offers a sweeter profile while maintaining balance. I tasted ripe stone fruits, honey, citrus and a touch of vanilla.
- 2017 Graham Beck Ultra Brut – this dry, zero dosage wine was complex with notes of green apple, citrus and floral notes.
- NV Graham Beck Brut Rosé — this salmon-pink sparkler has notes of raspberry, strawberry, citrus, cherry, and rose petals.
The appeal of South African sparkling wines lies not only in their quality but also in their value. With their softer acidity and more flavor profiles, they fall nicely between the styles of Champagne and California sparkling wines. The Western Cape’s climate, influenced by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, contributes to the wines’ freshness and crispness.
South African sparkling wines, particularly those crafted under the MCC designation, are gaining recognition for their exceptional quality and value. With a rich history dating back to 1971 and a diverse range of styles and flavors, these wines offer an enticing alternative to traditional Champagne. As producers like Graham Beck continue to innovate and expand their offerings, wine enthusiasts around the world are discovering the unique charm and character of South Africa’s sparkling wines. I urge you to dive in.
