Pongrácz, a sparkling wine from South Africa, has received international recognition once again by winning a Grand Gold at the 2023 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles in Belgium. Among the eleven Grand Golds awarded, South Africa shares this honor with Spain, Italy, and Portugal, while France secures an impressive seven victories. This prestigious wine competition is known as the global standard for recognizing exceptional wines from around the world.
MP Botes, the winemaker for Pongrácz, acknowledges that this award highlights the quality of locally-produced Cap Classiques crafted in the French tradition. “Our Cap Classiques’ numerous awards reflect our unwavering commitment to producing world-class quality products,” Botes explains. He adds, “We carefully nurture these wines over an extended period, while secondary fermentation in the bottle generates exquisite, delicate bubbles and integrated aromas. I feel incredibly privileged to contribute to the creation of these outstanding Cap Classiques.”
The versatile Pongrácz Brut is perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with charcuterie and cheese. This Cap Classique undergoes bottle fermentation and is aged on the lees for at least 15 months. Crafted from the classic Champagne varietals of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, these grapes are hand-picked from vineyards exposed to refreshing maritime breezes. The wine’s nose is filled with crisp green apple notes and freshly baked bread nuances, while the palate is layered with delicate yeasty tones, citrus fruit, and a vivacious, rich mousse. The experience concludes with a long, lingering aftertaste.
Desiderius Pongrácz 2015, an ultra-premium blend, is aged for a minimum of 69 months in the bottle for slow secondary fermentation. Made in the time-honored French tradition, it combines Chardonnay (80%) and Pinot Noir (20%) grapes, hand-picked from two select vineyard blocks. The wine’s beautiful, elegant bubbles and brioche-like aromas on the nose give way to a palate brimming with a rich and complex fusion of nuanced fruit, almonds, and yeasty notes, culminating in a lasting aftertaste.
Named after the nobleman and Hungarian refugee Desiderius Pongrácz, this wine pays tribute to a man who profoundly impacted Western Cape viticulture. Renowned for discovering the unexpected in traditional and fresh, unconventional theories, Pongrácz was a witty and brilliant mind whose influence extended across the wine industry, classical music, anthropology, and even Dachshunds.
To include these award-winning wines in your next gathering, visit Pongrácz online or find them at leading liquor outlets nationwide.
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