Van Hunks

Van Hunks Brut Methode Cap Classique NV

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Blend: 30% Pinot Noir, 70% Chardonnay | 12% ABV

£22.50

Discover this Cap Classique (bottle fermented sparkling wine) South African sparkling white wine. It is a blend of red (Pinot Noir), and white (Chardonnay) grapes displaying the full, balanced yeasty complexity synonymous with a wine made in this style. The wine retains its fresh racy zestiness that is a result of crisp acidity, and delicate fruit.

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Fresh and fruity, with notes of crisp red apple, pear, citrus fruits, and gentle toast. A fun wine to kick off dinner parties or to take to the beach!

Service: Serve chilled at 6 to 8°C.

Food Pairing: Excellent with cheeseboards, fish, pork, poultry, shellfish, and vegetarian dishes.

Matthew Krone the winemaker has been producing Méthode Cap Classique (traditional method sparkling wines from South Africa) for 14 years.

"I was privileged to grow up on our family wine estate, learning the finer arts of winemaking under the nurturing eyes of my father (Nicky Krone) and late grandfather (N.C. Krone). It was humbling learning from two of South Africa’s wine making legends, and it was the greatest privilege any son can have. Over the years they gently developed my knowledge and skills by encouraging and challenging me every day", says Matthew.

The Van Hunks journey kicked off in 2020 with an innovative and modern Sparkling Mead, followed by an incredible Cap Classique in 2021. Created by 12th-generation winemaker Matthew Krone, our Van Hunks Brut and Brut Rosé Cap Classiques were born and bred from the lavish lands of South Africa, Stellenbosch.

The name Van Hunks comes from a Cape Townian legend Jan Van Hunks who was notorious for escaping the ordinary, a man with a spirit for adventure. Pipe packed and drink in hand, he'd stroll through the Fynbos and scale the sandstone mountain cliffs in search of the perfect perch. Often he'd run into unexpected adventures. But on quieter days, he'd simply kick back and relax on the edge of Table Mountain and contemplate the world down below.

3* Sustainability Rating: Pioneer

Van Hunks, operating under the vast skies of Stellenbosch, South Africa, is a pioneering vineyard that has woven sustainability into its rich tapestry since its inception in 1983. The estate is a testament to productivity and environmental consciousness, managing 170 hectares with 78% dedicated to vine cultivation.

The estate has embraced new pruning techniques from Simonit and Sirch, which not only enhance vineyard productivity but also ensure the longevity and quality of the vines. Van Hunks is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, indicated by their membership in the Old Vine project and IPW (Integrated Production of Wine) certification, focusing on sustainability and environmental preservation.

With a vision to grow and enhance sustainability, Van Hunks faces challenges including load shedding, water shortages, and political inefficiency, yet it remains unwavering in its dedication to progress. Their response to climate change includes the planting of more resistant grape varietals and advanced irrigation techniques to ensure resource conservation.

The vineyard's commitment to biodiversity is resolute, actively preserving habitats and promoting native plants, while their soil health practices involve regular testing and organic amendments. Van Hunks adheres to organic pest management principles, minimizing synthetic pesticide use and resorting to sulphur only when necessary.

Their winemaking philosophy is modern yet reflective of their unique terroir, with a natural approach that includes spontaneous fermentation for all still wines and the use of amphorae to complement oak aging. Their cellar boasts IPW certification and HACCP accreditation, with all wines being vegan friendly.

Van Hunks is powered by a mix of energy sources, with buildings achieving an impressive 90% energy efficiency rating and packaging sustainability at 80%. The vineyard also demonstrates strong community ties, actively engaging in local projects and maintaining ethical sourcing practices, with the entire permanent staff being paid at least the local minimum wage.

With strong female leadership, including the owner and General Manager, and representation from locally under-represented demographics, Van Hunks showcases its dedication to social sustainability. The vineyard has set comprehensive sustainability objectives and continuously monitors its progress, positioning itself as a 3* pioneer in the sustainable wine industry of South Africa.

White | Sparkling | 75cl | 12% ABV

Cellaring: Drinking well now, can be cellared for 2 years from the date of purchase.

Vinification: Whole bunches are deposited directly in the presses (pneumatic) and pressed very gently according to a Champagne pressing program. Only the cuvee (the best quality juice) is used in the blend.

After blending, yeast and sugar are added for a secondary fermentation in the bottle which takes 6 weeks, producing the magical bubble. This sparkling wine was matured in contact with the lees for about 30 months. After riddling and disgorging, a small amount of dosage is added to balance the wine.

  • Vegan - Practising (Uncertified)

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