Manufacturer:
Graham Beck, Chardonnay-Pinot Noir Brut, Western Cape, South Africa NV
The Graham Beck wines are classic in style and a good value, reliable alternative to Champagne. Here we have bready aromas allied to some New World fruitiness, and although the complexity of good Champagne is lacking, it’s a very well-made traditional method wine.
Taster: Susie Barrie MW
A good-value alternative to Champagne, made by a renowned sparkling wine producer. A Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blend with 15–18 months’ bottle-ageing on lees, delivering yeasty, nutty, complex aromas and a creamy, rich palate with fine mousse. Freshness, lemony citrus fruit, crisp acidity and a lingering finish.
Taster: Christelle Guibert
Price: UK – £12.95-£13.99 Cape London, Exel, Waitrose. US – $12.45 – $13.98 EmpireWine.com, The Wine Club*
Drink 2015-2016
Alc 12%
*US stockist information from Wine-Searcher.com