South Africa Flashcards

1
Q

Describe “Cap Classique” wines

A
  • Traditional Method Sparkling wines of South Africa
  • Range of GV can be used but Chardonnay, PN, CB & Pinotage make up 95% of all Cap Classique
  • Ripe Apple & Citrus wiht varying levels of Autolytic flavours
  • Acidity: Med +
  • Alcohol: Medium
  • Price: Mid-Premium
  • Quality: Good - Very Good
  • Min 9 mos on lees but CC members commit to min 12 mos on lees–many choose 15-18 mos on lees for NV
  • min 3 bars pressure at post-disgorgement
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2
Q

Describe Carbonated Sparkling wine from South Africa

A
  • Inexpensive, simple, fruity wines
  • Range of GV including SB, Muscat. Pinotage
  • Off-dry to Sweet
  • Primarily consumed in domestic market
  • Exported to Angola, Mozambique, and Nigeria
  • Acceptable to good quality
  • Made by stopping fermentation early to retain RS then carboanted and released early to preserve fruit (low cost process)
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3
Q

Where in South Africa is the fruit sourced for Cap Classique wines?

A
  • Fruit sourced from a wide range of regions but mainly the following:
    • Robertson and Bonnievale (both in Breede River Valley)
    • Stellenbosch
    • Paarl
    • Darling
    • Tulbagh
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4
Q

Describe the Robertson and Bonnievale regions in South Africa and explain why they offer high quality fruit for sparkling wine production?

A
  • Both located in the Breede River Valley
  • BRV has significant amount of limestone which is thought to produce higher quality wine
  • both are narrow valleys and slower to warm up in morning due to shade from mountains
  • temp drops in afternoon due to cool breezes that run up the Breede river from the ocean
  • as a result, Robertson and Bonnievale regions have biggest diurnal shifts in temperature which preserves acidity in fruit
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