Event Description
In the first part of this tasting we'll explain why South Africa is one of the hottest wine making nations on the planet and reveal it's unique history of wine production. Then we'll immerse you in the world of Sparkling wine and learn how the bubbles get inside the bottle.
Part 1: South Africa; The Cape in a new light
South Africa boasts one of the most vibrant wine scenes on the planet. We'll explain why an influx of super-talented young winemakers mean that South Africa is the wine country we should all be watching. We'll tell the story behind South African wine, including where the 1st grapes were planted, the early influences on the industry and why, despite its issues, the South African wine industry is in such great shape. We'll share the story of Pinotage, the red grape South Africa can call its own and taste a modern-style Chenin Blanc; probably one of the best value wines in the world.
Part 2: Fabulous Fizz - the history and styles of Sparkling Wine
Champagne is one of the most iconic wines in the world - tonight we will learn about the historical method which gives us this beautiful bubbly. We'll explain the story of the winemaking monks who mastered the art of creating bubbles inside a bottle. But the world of sparkling wine is far more diverse than Champagne; we will examine & taste other wines, including a Cava and a fizz from the New World, and ask 'are they as good?''. We'll also discuss the extraordinary rise in popularity of Prosecco, now the UK's favourite Sparkling Wine. You might recognise labelling terms such as 'NV', 'Brut' and 'Blanc de Blancs' but what do these actually tell us about the wine inside? Plenty to learn about, taste and discuss!