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Wander off the beaten track and discover lesser known but equally (if not more) delicious bubblies to pop open at your New Year’s or year end celebration. These farms value minimal intervention in the cellar, produce European-influenced but proudly South African MCCs in smaller and more precious quantities that have stories to share with each “cheers”.
Le Lude, a wine farm in the oh-so quaint Franschhoek Valley follows an ethos committed to crafting naturally bottle-fermented sparkling wines (known in South Africa as Methode Cap Classique). The Brut 2012 is a classic blend of 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir, deliciously matured for a minimum of 36 months before final cork maturation for six months before release.
Price: R322
ALSO READ: What’s the difference between MCC and Champagne? Le Lude’s Winemaker Paul Gerber tastes the difference.
Winemaker Carla Pauw dreamed of a job where she could be immersed in nature rather than an office-bound 9–5; a job that involved working with the senses. Today, as Head Winemaker and driving force behind Saltare Wines, her dreams have reached fruition – as have her wines. Try the Saltare Brut Nature NV, a fresh, delicate wine that suits any occasion or time of day. We highly recommend it accompanying oysters, seafood or even Chinese take-out. The MCC spends 18 to 24 months on the lees, with no added sugar or sulphur when disgorge. Pick up a palate of gooseberry, honey-cake, lime, strawberry and fresh white peach flavours.
Price: R180
Bloemcool “Fontein” pays homage to Fairview Wine Estate’s first name dating back to 1693. This unusual bubbly is made entirely from Viognier, and aptly displays the striking uniqueness of the grape. With golden delicious apple and water biscuit on the nose and a fresh mineral finish, it’s produced in minimal quantities (only 1 200 bottles) – an ode to the farm’s history as pioneers of Rhone varieties.
Price: R150
Silverthorn “The Jewel Box” Brut 2013
Jewel Box is inspired by Silverthorn Wine’s ethos of Afropean synergy, combining old-world European heritage and knowledge with contemporary African environment and culture. Inspired by Southern Africa’s night sky, it’s a high quality MCC made to delight and enjoy in holiday luxury.
Price: R326
Chevallerie “Circa” Rosecco NV
A Swartland rendition of the well-loved prosecco, Chevallerie has created a fruity, fresh bubbly perfect for Summer sipping, flavour pairings or solo savouring.
Price: R195
Avondale “Armilla” Blanc de Blancs 2010
Handcrafted using 100% organically-grown Chardonnay grapes at Avondale estate in Paarl, and graciously given seven years on the lees, Armilla has had the time to develop an exceptional character and outstanding flavour profile. The farm practices sustainable and natural viticulture in line with its ethos: Terra Est Vita – “Soil is Life”.
Price: R295
Domaine des Dieux “Claudia” Brut 2010
With a farm and tasting room based in the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, and wines made from grapes sourced from the cool-climate viticultural region of Walker Bay, Domaine des Dieux produces a small range of award-winning, premium quality wines and Methode Cap Classiques. The range of MCCs are produced with the same fundamentals as French and European wines: cellar aged in order for them to reach their full potential. Claudia is a traditional bottle-fermented sparkling wine made from Chardonnay (81%) and Pinot Noir (19%.); ideal for parties hosted on your veranda this Summer.
Price: R190
ALSO READ: Plan a Pinotage party with these different styles of SA’s beloved grape variety.