Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of January 26, 2025

This week’s installment of Vinography Unboxed brings a spotlight to several sparkling wines and other exciting offerings from South Africa and California.

Beginning with Cap Classique wines from South Africa, a regulated designation requiring traditional production methods, these wines must undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle and age for a minimum of 12 months. Two standout selections include:

1. NV Van Hunks “Cap Classique Brut” – This classic blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir exhibits aromas of baked apples and citrus, with a silky mouthfeel and bright, clean finish. Priced at $30, it’s a great value. More Info

2. 2019 Genevieve “Cap Classique Brut Blanc de Blancs” – A sophisticated Chardonnay with layered flavors of pear, apples, and floral notes, aged for 48 months on lees. It is beautifully balanced and priced at $35. More Info

From California, MV Hammerling “Firefly Map – Escolle Vineyard” is a splendid blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay, offering flavors of orange peel and a velvety texture, retailing for $70.

Additionally, two outstanding offerings from Haliotide Wines showcase unique flavor profiles:

• 2019 Haliotide “Blanc de Blancs” – Aiming for freshness with notes of unripe apples and kelp, it’s priced at $97. More Info

• 2021 Haliotide “Extra Brut Rosé” – This delightful rosé of Pinot Noir displays bright raspberry notes and finishes with fantastic acidity, available for $90. More Info

Switching focus to some unique South African wines:

• 2022 Maanschijn “Herbarium Cape White” – This captivating blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Semillon, and Chardonnay offers a refreshing and deeply saline quality for $30. More Info

• 2020 Bosman Family Vineyards “Fides – Skin Contact Grenache Blanc” – This amber-hued wine delivers a deliciously textured experience and is available for $27. More Info

Lastly, a noteworthy 2023 Scions of Sinai “Atlantikas” Pinotage challenges traditional notions of the grape with its fresh, crunchy profile, priced at $20. More Info

These offerings reflect a rich diversity in both regions, showcasing the exciting potential of both sparkling wines and innovative expressions from dedicated producers.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!