We are absolutely elated to share news that anchors Benguela Cove firmly amongst South Africa's finest sparkling wine producers. Our Joie de Vivre Brut Cap Classique 2022 has achieved a spectacular double honour: a score of 92 points and a coveted position in the Top 5 of the prestigious Winemag Cap Classique Report 2025.  

This is more than just an award; it is a profound validation of our dedication to crafting wines that speak of their unique origin and meticulous care. For our flagship Cap Classique to be heralded as one of the best five in the country is an achievement that fills our entire estate with immense pride, confirming the world-class quality emanating from our cool-climate Walker Bay property. 

The Pursuit of Excellence: Terroir and Technique  

The creation of a truly magnificent Cap Classique requires a rare combination of exceptional terroir and obsessive attention to detail—a philosophy we live by at Benguela Cove. The 2022 vintage of the Joie de Vivre is a perfect marriage of these elements.  

The term Joie de Vivre translates to 'Joy of Living', a concept we aim to capture in every bottle. This traditional method sparkling wine is an elegant blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, benefiting from the cooling Atlantic breezes that define our estate.  

Hand-Crafted Precision: The journey to 92 points begins in the vineyard, where grapes are hand-harvested in the cool morning air. Following a rigorous hand sorting, the bunches undergo gentle whole-bunch pressing. Only the purest free-run juice is used, the foundation of its delicate taste and originality.  

Extended Maturation: A portion of the base wine is fermented in barrels (25%), adding layers of complexity. Crucially, the wine spent an extensive 36 months on the lees after its secondary fermentation in the bottle. This patient maturation develops the intricate autolytic character and luxurious mouthfeel essential for an elite Cap Classique.  

A 92-Point Profile of Pure Sophistication  

The judges of the Cap Classique Report recognised the superb class and finesse of this vintage, describing a profile that is both nuanced and utterly invigorating:  

Aromatics: The nose is immediately inviting, revealing classic notes of nougat and shortbread biscuit.  

Palate & Texture: These rich notes are beautifully offset by intricate layers of citrus zest, lemon, lime, and grapefruit, all lifted by a fine, vibrant mousse. The Pinot Noir component adds vital palate weight, providing a sophisticated balance to the zesty, granny smith apple-like acidity.  

The Finish: The wine concludes with remarkable length and an unmistakable oyster shell-like minerality, a stunning signature of our proximity to the ocean. This is pure sophistication in a glass.  

This Cap Classique is designed to be more than just a celebratory drink. Its structure and balanced freshness make it an exceptional partner for fine dining. The lively mousse and saline acidity offer the perfect textural and flavour counterpoint to rich dishes, from fresh shellfish to exquisite creamy cuisine.  

Celebrate the Joy of Living  

We raise a glass to our dedicated team and to the beautiful terroir of Benguela Cove. This Top 5 position is a moment to pause and appreciate the success borne from passion and perseverance.  

We invite you to experience this acclaimed vintage yourself. Whether marking a milestone or simply savouring the joy of a perfect afternoon, the Joie de Vivre Brut Cap Classique 2022 offers an unforgettable taste of elite South African winemaking.  
  
Raise a glass to the Joy of Living, a triumph from our estate to your table.  

Available for purchase online.