Previously known as Brut Zero, this ultra-dry Cap Classique was crafted without the use of additional sugar in the dosage – the absence thereof allows the exceptional intrinsic qualities of the wine and its terroir to shine through more clearly. Ultra Brut is pure and honest – a true testimony of extraordinary fundamental excellence. The Graham Beck Cap Classique craftsmen always maintain that making a sparkling wine with no sugar is like walking a tightrope; there is no room for errors. This unique style of wine can only be crafted in exceptional vintages and from only the highest quality cuvée juice that can sustain extended time on the lees (five to six years). It joins the ranks of very few zero-dosage sparkling wines, a category gaining in popularity amongst chefs, sommeliers, fashionistas, food enthusiasts and the health-conscious.

94 Points, Tim Atkin | 95 Points, Decanter | 95 Points, IWSC

Tasting Notes

Ultra Brut is the quintessence of the Graham Beck style. With a viridescent hue, this Cap Classique opens up with a lively bouquet of lemon zest and brioche notes. The rich, complex palate is perfectly balanced by fresh acidity and an exceptionally refined mousse – a benchmark of the 2017 vintage. Endowed with a deliciously creamy texture and a rewarding finish, this ultra-dry sparkling wine is ideal to drink now or in the next 5 or 8 years. Ultra Brut is an exhilarating and rewarding food wine, pairing effortlessly with fresh oysters or langoustines.

Variety

Chardonnay 67% Pinot Noir 33%

Area of Origin

Robertson, South Africa

Vineyard

The fruit for this Cap Classique was hand-selected and hand-harvested from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyard blocks grown on the limestone-rich soils of the Western Cape, ensuring a low pH and high natural acidity in the young base wine, which is essential for longevity. Yield was between 8-10 ton/ha.