Graham Beck Brut Sparkling Wine Western Cape

SKU #1052312 89 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

($17; a 54/46 blend of pinot noir and chardonnay) Pale copper-tinged gold. Tangerine, spicy oak and a hint of exotic fruits on the nose. Fruity and harmonious, with a yeasty complexity adding depth to the fairly dense, harmonious middle palate. Comes across as sweeter and fuller than the Blanc de Blancs, but finishes dry and crisp, with a bit more length. No shortage of flavor here. (4/ 2009)

K&L Notes

According to Parker's Wine Advocate: "Disgorged February 2011, a blend of 49% Chardonnay and 51% Pinot Noir with 8.6 gm/l residual sugar, the Non-Vintage Brut has a soft, creamy bouquet with touches of apple-blossom and yeast aromas. The palate is well defined with good acidity on the entry, citrus peel, fresh lime with a pleasing, commercially minded creamy finish. Unbeatable “bang for bucks” as they say. Drink now." (08/11) According to the Wine Enthusiast: "A very pretty nose of fresh flowers, citrus and creamy toast leads into a balanced, rich Chardonnay-like character on the palate. Minerally, clean, fresh but serious, this wine is food-friendly and elegant." (12/15/2008)