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
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)
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
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