Pongracz South African Sparkling Wine Brut NV
PONGRÁCZ
The Inspiration
An elegant and di st inc tive Méthode Cap Cla ssique , Pongrá cz i s
inspired by a nobl eman and refugee from the Hungarian uprising,
Desiderius Pongrácz, whose sheer genius and vision revitalised
viticulture in the Cape. Composed in the classic French tradition of two
noble varieties, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this magni ficent Cap
Cl assique evokes an air of style and sophistication, a tribute to the
genius to whom we owe its name.
The Vineyards (Viticulturist: Bennie Liebenberg)
Pongrácz is made of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes which are
handpicked from vineyards cooled by maritime breezes and selected for
their overall quality and suitability. The Pinot Noir vines grow in deep
red soi l at an altitude of 320m above sea level, whil st the Chardonnay
comes from vineyards at 100m to 200m above sea level.
The Winemaking (Winemaker: Elunda Basson)
Pongrácz is made of 40% Pinot Noir that imparts a cl ean flintiness, and
60% Chardonnay for its distinctive body and taste. The grapes are
harvested by hand at 18-20° Balling from January until mid-February.
After whole bunch pressing with minimal skin contact, the clear grape
juice is left to settle before it is pumped into steel tanks for cold
fermentation. After the fir st f ermentation and malolactic fermentation
the wine is prepared for secondary fermentation in the bottle. The wine
is left on the lees for two years before the sediment is removed in the
traditional process of “remuage” and “dégorgement”. The bottles are
then corked and laid down in a cool cellar for a further 2-4 months.
The Wine
This is a timeless Cap Classique with great elegance and complexity.
Deli cate yeasty tones, layered with toast and ripe fruit are enlivened by
a firm mousse and persistent bead that make it particularly attractive. It
imparts a wonderful foamy mouthful of black fruit flavours with a long
lingering aftertaste. It is perfect for any occasion and is superb with
chicken, seafood and oysters.
Awards
“Sparkling Wine of the Year” at IWC, London 1994
“Best Wine in its Class” at IWSC, London 1994
SAA Cap Classique Trophy 1993, 1995, 2001, 2005
Veritas Double Gold 1998
Veritas Gold 2000, 2001, 2005, 2006 (Magnum)
