2019 Graham Beck Cuvée Clive

The most prestigious and exclusive Cap Classique, the Cuvée Clive, is the pinnacle of his Méthode Champenoise-style wines. This prestigious cuvée embodies Graham Beck's pursuit of the perfect sparkling wine and is the result of meticulous planning and unbridled passion. It is therefore a wonderful reward that the Cuvée Clive has been named Sparkling Wine of the Year in the annual Tim Atkin South African Report (see the Appendix tab with the Tim Atkins report).

The Cuvée Clive is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. These vineyards are located opposite Graham Beck's cellars in Robertson. The grapes were hand-harvested in the second week of January. They were received early in the morning and whole-bunch pressed, with only the cuvée fraction (the first 400L per tonne) being used for this wine. The juice is left to settle for 24 hours and then matured directly in neutral Champenoise casks for primary fermentation and aging for three months, after which the two blocks are blended and bottled. After an impressive 60 months of bottle aging, the 2014 Cuvée Clive emerged as a showcase of power and elegance, seamlessly blended. Approximately 6,000 bottles of this top-quality wine were produced.

The Cuvée Clive is a complex, balanced, powerful, yet elegant Cap Classique that captivates the senses from start to finish. Ripe citrus aromas are supported by nuances of apricot, apple, and toasted almond. The palate begins with aromas of fresh and zesty citrus, developing into richer, fleshy yellow stone fruit and nutty notes. The penetrating acidity, complex texture, and delightfully fine bubbles create a taste experience that leaves you wanting more.

AWARDS

• Platter 2018: 4 1/2 Stars
• International Wine Challenge 2017 (IWC): Commanded winner
• Tim Atkin Master of Wine 2017: 97 Points
• Six Nations Challenge 2017: Gold
• South African National Wine Challenge 2016: Top 100 status/Double Platinum awards