Amelia Cap Classique Brut Rosé NV

I became aware of the Amelia Cap Classique when I discovered the Jan Harmsgat wines. However, I could never taste this wine – which had a label that was quite different from the current one shown in the photo – because it was always sold out since it was launched in 2019. It was only much later that I learnt that small quantities of this exclusive wine were made available to the public and that they are working on launching a new version of the Amelia Cap Classique. When I received the call in March 2023 to say that the new Amelia Cap Classique will be launched, I could not wait to be one of the first people to try this wine.

Amelia is named after the former Miss South Africa, Amy Kleinhans (her first name is Amelia) and is now a wine in its own right, associated with the Amy Kleinhans brand. This wine has been launched by Amy during her appearance as a contestant in the reality show Die Real Housewives van die Wynlande. It is now available from the Amy Kleinhans website and selected restaurants.

The label of this wine is a stylish, yet simple design that blends a classic and modern feel, representing the elegance of the lady behind it all. The corks of these wines are quite tight - this might improve when the corks have settled a bit. The colour of this wine appears at first to be a light orange, but against a clear background the rose gold colour of this wine becomes clearer. The bubbles are vibrant and small, and their pearly strings stay alive for as long as you savour the moments in your glass. On the nose, there are red fruit, orange peel and freshly baked biscuits. These notes follow through well on the palate with lemon, orange peel, orange blossom, raspberries, peonies and a hint of spiciness. The bubbles are elegant and soft on the palate, followed by a creamy mouthfeel and a medium finish of fresh herbs and orange blossom. It remains fresh throughout.

The Amelia Cap Classique is different from most other Cap Classiques in my opinion, due to the strong orange flavours in the wine. The wine was aged for 36 months on the lees, giving it that round and elegant taste that makes this wine an ideal welcome drink, aperitif or food pairing wine. This wine will work well with an ostrich carpaccio with orange-infused olive oil, duck confit or brie cheese. It should be served well chilled.

This is an interesting Cap Classique that is produced in small quantities. I really enjoyed it and I am confident that other sparkling wine lovers will also appreciate it. It was received very positively at the Decanter Wine Club and I look forward to present this wine to more people in the near future. Thank you for a lovely wine, Amy!

Producer: Amelia

Variety: Pinot Noir 80%, Chardonnay 20%

Vintage: NV

Origin: Robertson, Western Cape, South Africa

Winemaker: Achim von Arnim

Closure: Cork

Alcohol: 12.7%

RS: 3.36g/l

Average price: R250

Rating: 93/100