Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs

When we think of bubbles, we think of the delicious sparkling wines of Graham Beck. This Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs in particular. This Vonkel Wyn, as sparkling wines are called in South Africa, is one of the gems of winemaker Pieter Ferreira. If anyone can make beautiful sparkling wines, it's him. Sometimes he makes things very difficult for himself, as with this Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs. Besides the fact that this wine is made from just one grape variety, the grapes also come from a single vintage. The Graham Beck winery has always dreamed of creating such a gastronomic gem, but it certainly wouldn't have been possible without Pieter Ferreira.

Made solely from Chardonnay grapes

This Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes and can only be produced in exceptionally good vintages. Because only Chardonnay is used, a perfect blend is impossible; the winemaker must make the best of what he has. The Chardonnay grapes grow in sunny, warm vineyards. The soil is very chalky, which is perfect for these grapes. Fortunately, these vineyards receive sufficient coolness at night to give the grapes some rest and freshness. At perfect ripeness, the grapes are harvested by hand, with a strict selection process. Only the finest fruit is used for this Vintage. After pressing, 50% of the wine is aged in barrels for three months, after which the wines are recombined and left to mature in the cellars with yeast in the bottle for 36 months.

What does Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs taste like?

The result is phenomenal! The color is a beautiful straw yellow with a golden sheen and dazzling fine bubbles. The aroma is worthy of Champagne. Wonderful, full aromas of lime and apricot. A pleasant mineral note at the finish, characteristic of a Blanc de Blancs. The mouthfeel is very pleasant. The full structure of the Chardonnay combined with the delicate, classic mousse—truly superb! The palate offers rich notes of brioche, mandarin, and apricot. These are interspersed with hints of mango and vanilla. The finish is crisp and dry with a mineral undertone. Perfect to pair with oysters.