About Sparkling Wines from South Africa

About Sparkling Wines from South Africa
Today, South Africa ranks as the eight largest producer of wine in the world. The wines however a still largely a secret, as there has not been a serious marketing push for these products. There are several excellent wine types, both white and red. For the former, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc have excelled, while for the red, international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are recent successes, joining the local variety Pinotage. The Chenin Blancs offer great varietal purity and are made in a dry to off-dry style. Sauvignon Blancs, especially those from the Western Cape or Stellenbosch areas, offering excellent varietal focus and impressive structure, have been critically praised. However, the reds, thought quite good, are less recognized, with Pinotage still a bit of a mystery as far as its image. Perhaps they producers will be able to get their message across soon about the quality of its wines, which will lead to better consumer recognition and additional sales.

Top Picks for South Africa

Sparkling Wines

Arnout Tamboer Jansz 2015 Methode Cap Classique Stellenbosch
94 points
$49
A delicious and serious sparkling wine showing the white and red fruits in balance with the lees aging while exhibiting racy citrus zest acidity.
Graham Beck NV Brut Western Cape
93 points
$25
Fine mousse with excellent acid and structure hold together the combination of citrus, orchard, and crisp red berry fruits that elevate this Brut.
Graham Beck NV Brut Rosé Western Cape
92 points
$25
An elegant Method Champenoise offering vibrant red berries and bright acidity.
Steenberg Vineyards NV Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc
89 points
$25
An intriguing apéritif wine that will pair particularly well with a cheese and charcuterie board, specifically an herb infused goat cheese.