Graham Beck is a well-known South African winery with a rich history of producing high-quality sparkling wines. Founded in 1983, the winery is located in the Western Cape, in the renowned wine-producing regions of Robertson and Franschhoek. Graham Beck is celebrated for its Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines, a traditional production method similar to Champagne, where secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle to create fine bubbles and complex flavours. They use the same technique for their non-alcoholic wines, like the Graham Beck Brut Zero.
The winery also has a strong commitment to sustainability, implementing various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve water, and promote biodiversity in its vineyards. These eco-friendly practices are always a welcome sight in the wine industry.
Graham Beck’s MCC wines are consistently highly rated, even award-winning, and popular across international markets.
So, it seemed only fitting to try one of their non-alcoholic sparkling wines, in this case, their Brut Zero, to see how the removal of alcohol affects their signature style.
Appearance
Graham Beck’s Brut Zero non-alcoholic wine presents with a pale, straw-like hue and impressive clarity. The effervescence is lively, with a steady stream of fine bubbles ascending to the surface, providing a nice visual cue to the wine’s refreshing nature.
Aroma
On the nose, this non-alcoholic Brut Zero offers fresh aromas of green apples, ripe pear, and a hint of citrus zest. Beneath these primary fruity notes, there is a subtle layer of toasted brioche and a slight floral fragrance, adding a touch of complexity. While the nose may not reach the same level of intricacy as some of Graham Beck’s more established alcoholic sparkling wines, it is still pleasantly inviting and well-balanced.
Taste
The first sip of Graham Beck’s Brut Zero delivers a well-structured flavour profile. The crisp acidity of green apples is prominent, complemented by the natural sweetness of the grapes. Additional hints of apricot, lemon, and a touch of almond round out the flavour, creating a refreshing and satisfying taste. The balance between fruitiness and acidity is nicely achieved, making for a clean and crisp drinking experience.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel of this Brut Zero is a testament to its quality. It boasts a light, effervescent body that is very refreshing. The fine bubbles are persistent, contributing to the wine’s lively, tingling sensation on the palate. The acidity is well-balanced, providing a zing that invigorates the senses without overwhelming them. Overall, it delivers a refreshing and crisp experience, perfect for warm days or celebratory occasions.
Finish
The finish is bright and crisp, lingering gently on the palate. There’s little trace of cloying sweetness or bitterness, which is often a concern with non-alcoholic wines. While the finish dissipates more quickly than its alcoholic counterpart – understandably so, given the absence of alcohol – it remains clean and satisfying.
Pairing Suggestions
The crisp acidity and effervescence of Graham Beck’s Brut Zero make it an ideal match for a variety of foods. It pairs wonderfully with oysters, as the wine’s bright citrus notes enhance the briny, delicate flavours of the shellfish. It would also complement sushi and sashimi, with the sparkling wine cutting through the oils of the fish. Summer meals like fresh salads, cheese platters, and bruschetta would also be fantastic pairings. Its light, refreshing nature makes it incredibly versatile for a wide range of dishes.
Overall Impressions of Graham Beck Brut Zero
The Graham Beck Brut Zero is an easy, refreshing choice for summer drinking. It’s a good glass of fizz that tickles the palate with its lively bubbles and crisp acidity – perfect for those looking for a non-alcoholic sparkling option that still provides the refreshing qualities of a traditional sparkling wine. With no hangover the next day, it’s a great way to enjoy sparkling wine guilt-free. It’s simple, enjoyable, and well-suited for a wide range of occasions.