Perdeberg is synonymous with Chenin Blanc that is rising in fame among South African producers and consumers at the moment. The Brut Cap Classique is one of two sparkling wines from this farm, together with an entire portfolio of Chenin Blanc wines in different styles. This farm is commended for their dryland farming, which gives their vines optimal expression of concentrated fruit. The vines from which this wine is made are certified old vines, planted in 1977.
In the glass, this wine has a bright colour with straw-yellow tinges. The bubbles are vibrant in the glass. Fresh green apples and green pears are forthcoming on the nose. The first impression is that the bubbles are pearly, followed by fresh citrus, green apples, pear, honeydew melon and quinces. It is clear, right from the start, that this is not your standard Chardonnay or Pinot Noir type of Cap Classique. The fruit profile and perfume on this wine is unmistakeably different. Yet, it still has a brioche and lemon finish.
I recently compared the 2019 and 2020 vintages of this wine. Despite a label change, the two wines varied much. The 2019 had more pear notes, whereas the 2020 had more apple notes. The 2019 vintage also offered much more creaminess, also in the bubbles, than the 2020. The 2020 is good to drink now, but can also be cellared for a good five years or so. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a light starter such as a salad, oysters or chicken kebabs.
Producer: Perdeberg
Variety: Chenin Blanc 100%
Vintage: 2020
Origin: Ager-Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Albertus Louw & Natalie Kühne
Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 12.36%
Average price: R160
Rating: 92/100
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