As consumers in key international markets begin to turn away from traditional bottle-fermented options, Cap Classique’s exceptional quality, elegance, and value are making waves among wine enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
With its rich heritage, crafted using the time-honoured Méthode Traditionnelle, South Africa’s signature sparkling wine captures attention for all the right reasons – offering world-class taste with a fresh, modern appeal.
Over recent months, reports have emerged in some of the biggest markets such as the US that consumers are foregoing their usual choice at the premium end. One source says that in the 12 months ending November 2024, sales of Champagne dropped by double digits in both volume and revenue. The decline in traditional restaurant sales is even worse, and the blame has fallen on price.
“The shifting dynamics in global sparkling wine markets have created an unexpected but exciting opportunity for us to share the story of South African Cap Classique with a wider audience,” says Pieter Ferreira, chairman of the Cap Classique Producers Association. “More consumers are looking beyond the traditional options, and they’re discovering the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and value that Cap Classique offers. It’s the perfect moment to showcase our world-class bubbles on the international stage.
Younger consumers are trading up
Another reason for the local industry to feel bullish is the preferences of younger wine consumers that are shifting too.
“While numbers show younger consumers may be choosing to drink less, they’re generally trading up. Cap Classique is perfectly situated to meet this demand, offering world-class quality that is accessible, interesting, new and exciting,” says Pieter.
“Cap Classique is consistently rated among the best in the world, which is ample invitation for wine lovers at every level to try this as a top-quality alternative should you not want Champagne on the day!”
Cap Classique is bottle-fermented sparkling wine, made according to the traditional method. The name was conceived by South African winemakers when producers in the Champagne region in France objected to the use of the word Champenoise by other producers.
More pull and less push from international wine drinkers
In recent years, it has stepped up on the international stage. At ProWein last year, visitors to the CCPA stand received a curated selection of 12 Cap Classiques, each hailing from different regions and crafted in distinct styles. In the same year and in response to growing interest in foreign markets, the association extended its popular first-level Cap Classique course to an even broader German-speaking audience in South Africa.
This year, the category has gained even more momentum with numerous South African Cap Classiques represented at Wine Paris, among Europe’s pre-eminent annual beverage events.
For more information about South African Cap Classique and the Cap Classique Producers Association, visit www.capclassique.co.za or call +27 (0)863 1599. Stay connected with the CCPA on Facebook and Instagram.