To produce a good Cap Classique is not a simple process. It has been argued that it’s both a science and an art – and the winemaker has only once chance to get it right. In the words of international wine judge and leading wine writer Michael Fridjhon: ‘Cap Classique is about the longest game in the business. You start with base wine – which in oenological terms is earlier than a newborn – and you have to compose the final blend and end result before it has a chance to evolve. Then it’s trapped forever in a bottle, where the only possible tweak is the liqueur d’expedition.’
Colmant Brut Reserve NV is a blend of pinot noir (52%) and chardonnay (48%) grapes grown in Franschhoek, Robertson and Elgin. A portion of the base wine – just 10% – is fermented in French oak barrels for additional structure and integrated acidity. A further 20% of the blend comprises reserve wines from previous vintages, specially selected to enhance complexity, maturity and consistency as the wine ages.
The wine presents with a subtle golden glow, and the mousse or bubbles are fine. The nose is delicate and elegant, with a gentle spicy toastiness, a lemon and brioche perfume, and a soft scent of mature stone fruits (white peach). The citrus flavours offer freshness and crispness on the palate, with perfectly balanced acidity to complement the yeasty depth, freshly baked bread flavours and ample structure. The finish is complete and smooth, and offers a rounded tasting experience, together with the alluring caress of fine bubbles.
Each bottle of Brut Reserve NV matures for 30 months minimum at a steady 14°C before being released. It can be enjoyed now but will develop beautifully over four to five years.
WHAT’S ON OFFER
For the festive season, Colmant is offering Sanlam Private Wealth clients a discount of 15% across their whole Cap Classique range. This offer is open exclusively to Sanlam Private Wealth clients, until 31 December 2020.
For orders, visit Colmant’s online store at colmant.co.za. On checkout, use the coupon SPW2020 or Privatewealth20. You can also send an email to orders@colmant.co.za.
All orders are delivered countrywide free of charge within three to four working days, with a generous 10% discount if you order a minimum of 12 bottles. This means that Sanlam Private Wealth clients would get a total discount of 25% on all orders of 12 bottles or more.