South African Fine Fizz
Cap Classique is celebrating 50 years of South Africa’s unique fine fizz. This bottle-fermented wine with rich, rampaging flavours and lively bubbles is South Africa’s fastest growing wine category. It takes time to make a bottle – the minimum has just gone up to 12 months – and as far as grapes go, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir tend to be the leading lights. Pop a bottle and raise a glass on your next sunny picnic!
OLLY’S PICK OF THE BUNCH
Boschendal Chardonnay-Pinot Noir Brut (12.5%), £15, thewinebox.co.uk. Lemony flavours with bold bubbles, this is a top fizz to pair with nibbles or canapés.
Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs 2016 (12.5%), £17.50, vinvm.co.uk. Brioche aromas, umami richness and bright delicious invigoration. Splendid fizz.
Bon Courage Jacques Bruére 2012 (11.5%), £17.99, thewinereserve.co.uk. Silky and rich, this is amazing bubbly to sip with comté cheese.
Villiera Tradition Brut NV (12%), £17.99, handford.net. Impressive depth with broad flavours and savoury splendour, this is up there with the best bubbly.
WINE OF THE WEEK
Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel 2019 (12%), £12.95, leaandsandeman.co.uk. Terrific value for a fine fizz balanced with vibrant refreshment and rich aromas.
This article was originally published in YOU Magazine, Mail on Sunday, 15th August 2021 – Prices, stockists and vintages correct at time of publication.
