Champagne, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, South Africa, Sparkling Wine, Wine, Wine and Food Pairing, Wine Tasting

T.G.I.F. Champagne and the like – NV Graham Beck Brut

Posted by Martin D. Redmond on

This week’s virtual trip around the world of sparklers takes me back to South Africa.   Back in June I reviewed the NV Graham Beck Brut Rosé which I really enjoyed and heartily recommend.

The eponymous Graham Beck was founded in 1983.  The first sparkling wine was produced 8 years later in 1991.  In 1994 Graham Beck was served at the inauguration of Nelson Mandela.  Once apartheid and isolationism were gone, the wine industry in South Africa made great strides.  In addition to 5 others sparkling wines (both vintage and non-vintage), they produce a diverse line of reds, whites, and a rosé that’s a blend of Malbec and Sangiovese.

In South Africa, the Méthode Champenoise is referred to as the Methode Cap Classique (“MCC”), and the sparkling wines go by the same initials.

Graham Beck Brut - Photo courtesy of K&L Wine Merchants

NV Graham Beck Brut

Region: South Africa>Western Cape

Variety – 58% Chardonnay, 42% Pinot Noir

Residual Sugar – 8.5g/Liter

Production method: Méthode Champenoise; 15-18 months on lees.

Alcohol by volume: 12%

Cost:$14

My tasting notes follow:

Appearance: Pale gold with copper tinge

Aromas: Yeast, and stone fruit

Body: Light bodied, with moderately aggressive mousse

Taste: Tart apple with touch of mineral flavor

Finish: Short-medium

Pair with: The beauty of sparkling wines is their pairing versatility with a variety of foods.  Try this one with lighter fare such as your favorite summer salad, fresh shucked oysters, or poached salmon.

This is a good value at less than $14.  It reminds me of Champagne in that it’s biscuity, and dry and it costs less.  I recommend. (86 pts)