This is Ken Forrester's take on Cap Classique - South Africa's equivalent of Champagne - made using the same traditional bottle-fermented method. What makes it distinctive is the grape: it's 100% Chenin Blanc, which is unusual for sparkling wine and gives it a slightly different personality. The fruit comes from cooler vineyard sites in Stellenbosch, helping retain the high acidity needed for sparkling wine. After fermentation, the wine spends time on its lees (typically over a year, sometimes longer), which builds creaminess and fine mousse without losing freshness.
Stylistically, it sits between Champagne and modern English sparkling wine. You get that familiar brioche and citrus combination, but with a slightly more orchard-fruit-driven profile - apple, pear, and quince are key markers of Chenin Blanc. There's a clear sense of balance. The acidity keeps everything tight and refreshing, while the lees ageing adds a soft, creamy edge so it doesn't feel sharp or thin. It's elegant rather than rich, with a clean, composed feel throughout.
It works well as:
- An aperitif
- With seafood or creamy chicken dishes
- A more interesting alternative to entry-level Champagne
Overall, this is a well-made, slightly distinctive sparkling wine, showing how Chenin Blanc can deliver both freshness and texture in a traditional-method style.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Green apple, citrus blossom, and brioche with a light floral lift
Palate:
Crisp and lively, with lemon zest, pear, and subtle creaminess from lees ageing
Finish:
Clean and mouthwatering, with fresh acidity and a gentle, lingering mousse
