Meet the Pierre Jourdan Blanc de Blancs 2016, our first vintage Cap Classique.
The von Arnims of Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek have been artfully harnessing the unique sun, soil and vine conditions of the Franschhoek Valley since acquiring the property in 1982.
The latest addition to the Pierre Jourdan range of sparkling Cap Classique wines, the 2016 Blanc de Blancs, has quickly become the most awarded of the winery’s Cap Classiques ever released. As the first vintage‑specific sparkling wine from Cellar Master Takuan von Arnim and Winemaker Tim Hoek, the Pierre Jourdan Blanc de Blancs 2016 builds upon a long‑cherished legacy and passion for Cap Classiques and Champagne-style wines established by founder Achim von Arnim.
The origins of the Pierre Jourdan range
The iconic Pierre Jourdan range, named after the French Huguenot to whom the land was originally granted in 1694, exemplifies Haute Cabrière’s appreciation for French winemaking traditions. Initially launched in 1986 with the Brut (non-vintage), the Pierre Jourdan range has since grown to include four distinctive Cap Classiques and continues to celebrate Champagne-styles of wine through traditional sparkling wine methods.
“We’re passionate about Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and these Burgundian varietals make for classic and elegant Cap Classiques, which proudly stand alongside the Champagne Houses of France” remarks Cellar Master Takuan von Arnim.
Blanc de Blancs 2016 vintage
In 2021, the South African Cap Classique industry celebrated the 50th anniversary of the first local sparkling wine created in the Traditional Method. As part of the celebrations, Haute Cabrière released the Pierre Jourdan Blanc de Blancs 2016, a vintage-specific Cap Classique.
First introduced into the range in 1986 as a non-vintage wine, each subsequent release delved further into the aging properties of Cap Classique to bring to market a bold, aged and quality wine for enthusiasts and connoisseurs to enjoy. Releasing a 2016 vintage of sparkling wine in South Africa is certainly uncommon and challenges drinkers to explore the exceptional qualities of aged Cap Classique.
During harvest, fruit from vines planted in 1983 and 2008 were whole‑bunch pressed to preserve the quality of the fruit and allow for high quality juice extraction. “As the only Cap Classique in the range aged in oak, the structure and body make it versatile to pair with food and something remarkable to enjoy alone. The elegant and fine mousse stand out as a testament to quality” comments winemaker Tim Hoek.
Accolades
Platter Rating | 4.5 stars in the Platter Wine Guide
Tim Atkin South African Report | 93 points
SA Sparking Wines Competition | Gold
Amorim Cap Classique Challenge | Silver
Tasting Notes
Aged in oak for eight months, the wine spent a further five years on the lees. Expect citrus notes and delicate hints of oak on the nose with a full-textured palate with hints of passion fruit. A fine mousse and creamy mouthfeel complete this wine.
Available from R245 per 750ml bottle (cellar door) at Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek, at cabriere.co.za, and at select retailers and restaurants.
Other wines in the Pierre Jourdan Range
The first wine to be released by the Haute Cabrière cellar in 1986 and crafted to pay tribute to the Champagne region in France. Enjoy delicate yeasty aromas on the nose complemented by fresh citrus flavours and crisp acidity in this dry Chardonnay-driven Cap Classique.
When Theodora von Arnim, the grandmother of current Cellar Master Takuan, saw this in the glass, she insisted on the Cap Classique being called “Beautiful Rose!” – in French, Belle Rose. Enjoy a full nose of strawberries and cream, followed by fresh acidity and red fruit on the palate in this dry and elegant Pinot Noir-driven Cap Classique.
Created for those who enjoy a little added sweetness in their sparkling wine. The Belle Nectar showcases all the delights of Pinot Noir and celebrates a sweeter palate with strawberries and rose petals.
The range is available from Haute Cabrière’s cellar door, the online shop and most retail outlets from R155/bottle. The Brut, Belle Rose and Belle Nectar are also available in 375ml bottles from R80/bottle.
To order your favourites, please visit our online shop.
To order from outside of South Africa, please visit our international retail list.