South Africa

Question 1

Introduction of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 1

South Africa sparkling wine production lies at two ends of a spectrum:

1) At the premium end: traditional method sparkling wines, called Methode Cap Classique (MCC), are reaching new levels of quality and becoming increasingly popular on both the domestic and export markets.
2) At the other end, sizable demand within South Africa for cheaper, easy drinking carbonated sparkling wines, usually made in a simple and fruity style.

Question 2

Location of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 2

1) MCC: mainly Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, increasingly Constantia, Paarl, Robertson.
2) Carbonated: anywhere.

Question 3

Climate of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 3

Warm Mediterranean. Sea breezes cool coastal vineyard sites.

Question 4

Grape varieties of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 4

1) MCC: no restrictions, but the Cap Classique Producers Association recommends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. Chenin Blanc and Pinotage are also popular.
2) Carbonated: no restrictions but Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat are frequently used.

Question 5

Viticulture of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 5

• Where possible, grapes are grown on east and south-east facing slopes to benefit from the morning sun while remaining relatively cool during hot afternoons.
• Harvesting date is crucial; green unripe flavors may result from early picking, but if the grapes are harvested too late, acidity levels may be too low.

Question 6

Winemaking of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 6

1) MCC: traditional method, minimum lees ageing 9 months.
2) Carbonated: before carbonation, sugar levels of the base wines are adjusted. The wine is chilled before passing through a carbonator. Then, it is stored under pressure to allow absorption of CO2.

Question 7

Styles of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 7

1) MCC: styles similar of Champagne, including Prestige Blends. Vintage wines tend to be produced every year, so don’t hold the same quality connotations as those in Champagne.
2) Carbonated: made in a full range of styles from Extra Brut to Sweet. Wines can be white, pink or red.

Question 8

Important trade structures of South Africa sparkling wine.

Answer 8

The Methode Cap Classique Producers Association (CCPA) has been created to promote MCC and strives to improve the quality standards of the category.