WINE, FOOD, AND EVERYTHING THAT'S GOOD!

The 24th Amorim Cap Classique Challenge reminded us once again why this category is the pride of the South African wine industry.  With a record 152 entries from 66 producers, the competition has grown into more than just an annual awards ceremony, it’s become a benchmark for quality, and a proud, well-deserved celebration of the production of traditional method sparkling wine in South Africa.

This year’s headline wine was Steenberg Wine Estate Lady R 2019 (63% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay, 50 months on the lees), which claimed both Best Brut Blend and the Overall Winner trophy – taking home the iconic Sabrage Sword (see picture below)!  For me, this win carries extra significance because 2019 was the first vintage produced under Elunda Basson’s leadership at Steenberg, and seeing it absolutely dominate at this level is a powerful statement.  Elunda has the vision, and a special kind of determination which is going to help soar Steenberg into a very prolific future. 

Lady R is a wine that manages to be both technically precise and thought provoking.  With layers of lemon peel, quince, ripe red apple, hints of raspberry, roasted almonds and a sleek, sexy, savoury edge, the wine set the benchmark for the day.  Definitely one of the finest representations of top quality bottle fermented sparkling wine you’ll find out in the market.  And, with Lady R being the first wine of the day, I was feeling ready to take on the world!  

While Lady R deservedly took top honours, the Tokara Wine Estate Blanc de Blanc 2017 (84 months on the lees, 100% Chardonnay), was the standout for me.  It’s a masterclass in patience and restraint.  The extended lees time gives this wine incredible depth, complexity, and finesse.  It’s a wine that shows just how far South African Cap Classique has come in producing age-worthy sparkling wines that can rival even the most prestigious Champagne! Although Stuart Botha is at the helm of Tokara’s production, some credit should also go to Miles Mossop, who played a very important role in the initial production of this world-class wine.

Other highlights included the Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs 2019 (Paul Gerber of Colmant confessed that this wine was his favourite of the day – severe props, coming from a Cap Classique maestro himself), Krone Night Nectar Blanc de Blancs 2021, Windfall Mendola Blanc de Blancs 2017, and the Graham Beck Pinot Meunier 2022 (no Blanc de Noir trophy this year, but this Gold winner hints at a style with exciting potential)!

One of the most remarkable aspects of this event is Amorim’s unwavering support for 24 consecutive years.  This isn’t just a sponsorship, it’s a partnership that has elevated the entire category, providing producers with a stage to benchmark their wines, gain recognition, and push for greater consistency and excellence year after year.  Without this commitment, the Cap Classique landscape would look very different today – in my own humble opinion.  

When I asked Joaquim Sá, MD of Amorim Cork South Africa, about the company’s vision for Cap Classique, he emphasised that Amorim sees its role as much more than simply supplying cork closures.  “We want to be recognised as an integral partner, driving innovation, improving quality, and shaping the overall product offering.  Our commitment is to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with producers, ensuring that Cap Classique and the South African wine industry continue to grow in reputation, consistency, and international recognition”.

This year’s awards ceremony was hosted at the picturesque Vrymansfontein by Vondeling Wines, the perfect backdrop for celebrating South Africa’s finest bubbles! And, let’s not forget the food!  Executive chef Kevin Grobler and Anthonie van Zyl totally outdid themselves with a menu that paired beautifully with the winning wines.  Their culinary flair, the immaculate venue, and friendly, well-trained staff made this a truly special experience.  The day was a right celebration of…wait for it…wine, food, and everything that’s good!

I can say without a doubt, Cap Classique is on the up. Longer lees ageing, greater emphasis on terroir, and more stylistic diversity will define the next decade.  Domestic sales are growing, exports are gaining traction, and global recognition is following close behind.  

Therefore, if there was ever a good time to “pop that cork”, it is now!

Special note: Although the day was filled with celebration, there was a moment of reflection as the industry mourned the sudden passing of Anthony van Schalkwyk, whose contributions to South African wine will not be forgotten.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, children, family and close friends.