Jeff - Wine Specialist, Sherman Oaks
"Real" Champagne (from Champagne, France) is a luxury sub-category within a luxury industry, typically with price tags to match. That's why it often gets relegated to only special occasions, which is a shame; we should enjoy delicious sparkling wine far more often.
We have a great selection of wonderful sparkling wines around $20 per bottle. Graham Beck Brut from South Africa is one of them. It checks a number of notable boxes:.
- It has a classy label, making it suitable for table presentation at special events.
It is 57% Chardonnay and 43% Pinot Noir — both noble Champagne varietals. No lesser "filler" grapes.
- It is "Méthode Cap Classique," a South African designation for being produced in the exact method as Champagne (the second fermentation happens in the bottle, not in a tank).
- Spends 15–18 months "on lees" to develop complexity and maturity. No rushed production.
- The "President's Choice." Graham Beck Brut was served at both Nelson Mandela's inauguration and Barack Obama's presidential nomination.
With a list like that, you owe it to yourself to check this brand out as a consideration for all occasions in your life, from a picnic or brunch, to graduations, weddings, and other prestigious ceremonies.
