Cap Classique

South Africa’s Sparkling Secret

When it comes to sparkling wine, most people jump straight to Champagne – but let’s talk about something a little less famous, a little closer to home (if you’re in South Africa), and often a little friendlier on the pocket. Meet Cap Classique, South Africa’s answer to Champagne, a bubbly that can easily sparkle its way through any celebration, from birthdays to braais.

The Journey of Bubbles: How Cap Classique is Made

Cap Classique is made using the traditional method, the same technique used in Champagne, where the magic happens in the bottle. Here’s a quick run-through of how this process unfolds:

1. First Fermentation: It all begins like any other wine, with the initial fermentation where grape juice transforms into still wine. The main grapes used are typically Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sometimes a splash of Pinot Meunier – sounds familiar, right? That’s because it’s the same blend often used in Champagne.
2. Blending & Bottling: After the first fermentation, winemakers create a blend from various wines to get the right balance and flavours. This blend, called the cuvée, is bottled, but it’s not done yet!
3. Second Fermentation & Bubbles Creation: Now comes the magic – sugar and yeast are added to the bottle, and a second fermentation kicks in. The bottle is capped, trapping all that carbon dioxide, which is what creates those wonderful bubbles.
4. Ageing on Lees: Once the bubbles are in, the wine sits in the bottle for at least 9 months (many top-quality Cap Classiques will age longer) to develop complex flavours from the yeast sediment, known as the lees. This step adds that lovely biscuity, toasty quality to the wine – think brioche, almonds, and baked bread.
5. Riddling & Disgorging: To clear out the lees, bottles are tilted and rotated (this is called riddling) to move the yeast sediment to the neck of the bottle. The neck is then frozen, and the plug of frozen yeast is removed in a process known as disgorging.
6. Dosage & Corking: Finally, a little sugar and wine mix (dosage) is added to balance the acidity, and the bottle is corked and dressed up, ready to pop!

What Makes Cap Classique Special?

1. A Sense of Place: Unlike Champagne, which can only be made in the Champagne region of France, Cap Classique hails from South Africa, drawing on its diverse climates and rich soils. You’ll often find Cap Classiques made in regions like Stellenbosch, Robertson, or Franschhoek, each offering unique flavours influenced by their terroir. A coastal Cap Classique might bring hints of citrus and sea salt, while an inland version could be richer and fruitier.

2. World-Class Quality: South Africa’s best winemakers have honed their craft, and Cap Classique can absolutely hold its own against some top-notch Champagnes. Many producers follow strict guidelines on vineyard practices, hand-harvesting, and the time spent on lees, bringing finesse and depth to each bottle.

3. Celebratory Charm Without the Price Tag: Cap Classique provides all the elegance and tradition of Champagne but at a more accessible price. That’s the beauty of this South African gem – it’s crafted with care but doesn’t come with the same price tag as its French counterpart. Whether you’re celebrating or just enjoying a quiet evening, Cap Classique adds that extra sparkle without stretching your budget.

Why Cap Classique is Great Value

One of the best things about Cap Classique is that it offers incredible quality at a fraction of the price of Champagne. You can often find bottles of excellent Cap Classique for under £20, which is a fantastic price considering the traditional method and long maturation involved. It’s a true celebration in a bottle – crisp, elegant, and complex, making it feel way more luxurious than the price suggests.

How to Enjoy Cap Classique

Cap Classique is endlessly versatile. Here’s a few ideas on how to enjoy it:

• For Brunch: Try it with smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, or a rich eggs Benedict – the acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
• At a Braai: Serve it with grilled prawns or even a braaibroodjie (grilled cheese toastie). It’s refreshing enough to keep up with the smoky flavours.
• For Dessert: Pair it with strawberries, a light lemon tart, or some macarons to keep things sweet and celebratory.

Which Bottles to Try?

Now that you’re sold on Cap Classique, here are some standout bottles that showcase just how versatile and sophisticated South African sparkling wine can be:

• Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut: The very first Cap Classique created in the Cape in 1971 by Frans Malan. On the nose, white flowers, apples, and nectarines are supported by subtle aromas of shortbread biscuits. An absolute Classic!
• Boschendal Brut: A crisp and elegant option, Boschendal Brut is a classic choice, known for its fresh notes of green apple and citrus, complemented by a subtle yeasty character from extended ageing on the lees. Perfect for pairing with seafood or simply to enjoy as an aperitif.
• Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir Méthode Cap Classique Brut N.V.: For something a bit unique, this 100% Pinot Noir Cap Classique offers a beautiful salmon-pink hue and bursts with red berry aromas. It’s refreshing and fruit-forward, making it an ideal choice for summer sipping or alongside dishes like smoked salmon or charcuterie.
• Vergelegen MMV: This bottle is a luxurious treat, with time on lees that brings deep complexity. Expect notes of toasted brioche, honeyed nuts, and ripe stone fruits. It’s refined and elegant – perfect for special celebrations or pairing with fine foods.
• Muratie Lady Alice: From the historic Muratie estate, Lady Alice is a Cap Classique that exudes sophistication. With its delicate bubbles, balanced acidity, and lingering finish, this is a bottle that pairs well with creamy cheeses or serves as a gorgeous way to start any meal.

These Cap Classiques demonstrate South Africa’s incredible diversity and dedication to quality. Any one of them will add a touch of sparkle to your day, so go ahead and discover your favourite!

So, if you’re looking for bubbles that impress both your taste buds and your wallet, Cap Classique might just be the perfect fit. It’s delicious, versatile, and loaded with character – the ideal companion for life’s everyday celebrations. Cheers to that!