THE privately-owned Laborie Estate is down the road from Warshay Investment's KWV Emporium – both in Paarl, both Cape wineland destinations in their own right, both home to one of South Africa's Top 10 sparkling Cap Classiques made according to the traditional method for which Champagne is famous. Standout vintages of the Laborie Blanc de Blancs in recent years have included the 2015, scored 95 points at the 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards, the 2017 vintage, winner of the Cap Classique Challenge and champion at the Trophy Wine Show in 2023, with the current-release 2019 scored 97 points and judged best in class at the 2025 Trophy Wine Show. And what a bargain price when it comes to MCC!
R179pb. There's nothing else that comes close for this level of quality and interest value. In fact, at the time of writing, it was the only top-rated Cap Classique sparkler on sale at under R200 a bottle, and going up the price spectrum, the next of the Top 10 was priced at R357.
LABORIE BLANC DE BLANCS 2019
From the KWV cellars in Paarl. WO Western Cape: 100% Chardonnay, primarily from a vineyard at Laborie estate in Paarl and another in Wellington that produce grapes which ripen early and are ideal for Method Cap Classique sparkling wine. Base wine 70% tank-fermented to enhance purity and freshness, 20% barrel-fermented for texture, creaminess and toasty notes, with 10% reserve wine for depth and layers of complexity to maintain the house style. After second fermentation in bottle, matured for five years before disgorgement and insertion of cork closures.
Alc 12 | RS 5.5 | TA 8.2 | pH 3.2
From the Producer's Tasting Notes: Exudes layered secondary aromas of roasted almonds and a smooth creaminess on the nose. The palate features delicate citrus flavours, balanced by a refreshing crispness. A fine mousse adds to the creamy, textured mouthfeel, while the lively acidity brings vibrancy, culminating in a refined, lingering finish.
Producer's Pairing Suggestions: oysters, sushi, delicate seafood dishes.
R179pb ex-KWV Emporium or from The Farm Grocer at Laborie Estate, Paarl.
