“Come quickly, I’m tasting the stars!” These iconic words, attributed to the winemaking monk Dom Perignon, mark a pivotal moment in the history of sparkling wine. They signal the serendipitous discovery of champagne - a beverage that would evolve into a symbol of celebration and luxury. Yet, as we toast to the stars, it's crucial to remember that while champagne is synonymous with elegance, it is also deeply rooted in a rich and complex narrative that extends beyond the boundaries of France.

The Birth of Champagne: A Historical Perspective

The story of champagne begins in the 1600s within the cool, northern Champagne region of France. Grapes struggled to ripen fully due to the climate, prompting winemakers to sweeten their still wines in an attempt to compete with the more successful Burgundy region, known for its robust Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, the cold winters often halted fermentation, leaving residual sugars. When spring arrived, the wine would warm and re-ferment in the bottle, leading to the delightful effervescence that would eventually capture the world’s imagination.

Dom Perignon, called in to address these unexpected bubbles, inadvertently became a legend in the wine community. Today, the term “champagne” is reserved exclusively for sparkling wines produced in this specific region of France, a testament to both its rich history and strict regulations.

The Global Sparkling Wine Scene

While champagne holds a prestigious position, the art of producing sparkling wine has transcended French borders. Regions such as Franciacorta in Italy, Cava in Spain, Deutsche Sekt in Germany, and the burgeoning British sparkling wine scene have all carved out their identities in this effervescent category. Among them, South Africa’s Cap Classique stands out as a serious contender, emphasising quality and tradition.

In 1992, South African producers formally adopted the term Cap Classique to differentiate their traditional method sparkling wines from other international styles. This commitment to excellence includes stringent ageing requirements that surpass those of many other regions, underscoring the dedication of South African winemakers to their craft.

A Journey Through Cap Classique

The journey of Cap Classique began in earnest with Frans Malan’s first vintage of Kaapse Vonkel in 1973. Over the past five decades, this sparkling style has gained immense popularity, evolving into a symbol of South African wine making excellence. References to “Cape Champagne” in the 1700s hint at a historical lineage, suggesting that the quest for sparkling wine in South Africa predates modern recognition.

In regions like Bonnievale and Robertson, the Cap Classique movement took off in the early 1990s, with producers like Graham Beck and Bon Courage championing this sparkling style. The limestone-rich soils of the Robertson area, known for their elegance and minerality, have become crucial to the character of Cap Classique, earning these winemakers a reputation as the "Robertson Limestone Lumineers."

Wine, Farm, Champagne — Weltevrede Cap Classique.

The Weltevrede Experience

For those eager to delve deeper into South Africa’s Cap Classique narrative, a visit to Weltevrede winery is a must. Their immersive tour, “Captivated by Cap Classique,” showcases not only the art of sparkling wine production but also the broader history of similar wines globally. Guests can experience a unique tasting among thousands of ageing bottles in the winery’s underground cellar.

Weltevrede is particularly renowned for its Philip Jonker Brut Entheos, a harmonious blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as the vintage Blanc de Blancs, Philip Jonker Brut The Ring. These offerings exemplify the finesse and complexity that South African sparkling wines can achieve.

As we raise our glasses to toast the stars, it’s important to acknowledge the broader landscape of sparkling wines that contribute to our celebrations. While champagne may have started it all, Cap Classique stands as a testament to the passion and innovation of South African winemakers. With its rich history, commitment to quality, and remarkable terroir, Cap Classique is not just a sparkling wine; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and the joy of tasting the stars.

For more about Weltevrede and their offerings, visit Weltevrede or follow them on Instagram at @weltevredewines. To learn more about the broader South African wine scene, explore Sophron.

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