The Wine Reference🍷 SupportCap Classique
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Cap Classique is a sparkling wine style known for citrus, apple, brioche. Its best-known homes are South Africa.
Origin and history
South Africa's traditional-method sparkling wine; Simonsig's Kaapse Vonkel, made by Frans Malan in 1971, was the country's first bottle-fermented sparkler.
Where it grows
Western Cape, especially Robertson, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Elgin and the Hemel-en-Aarde area.
Structure
Light to medium body, fresh acidity and fine bubbles; usually Brut, from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with Meunier and Chenin Blanc also used.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: lemon, green apple, citrus blossom and red berries. With age: brioche, toast, nuts and honey.
Ageing
Non-vintage within 2–4 years; prestige vintage cuvées can age 8–10 years.
Also known as
Méthode Cap Classique (MCC).
Good to know
Members of the Cap Classique Producers Association commit to at least 12 months on the lees; Graham Beck is one of its best-known producers.
Similar styles
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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