Robertson, tucked into South Africa’s Breede River Valley, shares something fundamental with Champagne: limestone. It was this geological quirk that first caught the attention of Graham Beck, an entrepreneur with a passion for horse racing who recognised the calcium-rich soils would benefit both his thoroughbreds and his nascent interest in sparkling wine. In 1983, he purchased Madeba farm. By 1991, the first vintage of Graham Beck was released.
The defining moment came in 2016, when the family made a bold decision: to focus exclusively on Cap Classique, South Africa’s answer to Champagne. It was a gamble that paid off. ‘I personally love that the family decided to focus 100% on Cap Classique,’ says cellar master Pierre de Klerk, who has worked at the estate for 15 years. ‘There is no other wine style with as many challenges, pitfalls and rewards as the traditional method of sparkling wine, and that keeps me intrigued and happy on a daily level.’
Few wineries can claim the continuity Graham Beck enjoys. Founding cellar master Pieter Ferreira has overseen winemaking since that first vintage in 1991, with De Klerk working alongside him throughout his tenure. This consistency shows in the wines themselves: the reliable quality of their non-vintage styles, the finesse of their vintage and prestige offerings, and the innovative releases from their Artisan Collection all stem from having a dedicated team intact for decades.
For De Klerk, the most captivating moment is assemblage, when months of careful evaluation culminate in the final blending of base wines. ‘To see both our own vineyards and beautiful parcels from our grower partners developing each season, following the ripening, making high-quality wines, blending to perfection and finally seeing them develop into gorgeous Cap Classiques is truly rewarding.’
Graham Beck is also known for being boundary pushers. The team has pioneered Pinot Meunier using the ancient Agrafe method and undertaken Project X, a decade-long study in extended lees ageing that resulted in Cuvée Clive X. The wines have graced historic celebrations, including Nelson Mandela’s inauguration and Barack Obama’s presidential victory, cementing their place not just in South African wine history but in the rainbow nation’s cultural memory.
Beyond winemaking, the Beck family’s commitment runs deep. For every hectare they farm, they conserve around 8.5 hectares of natural fauna and flora, earning recognition as a WWF Conservation Champion. The Graham & Rhona Beck Development Trust supports education, arts, culture and sports in the Robertson community. It’s this three-pillared approach – exceptional wines, nature conservation and people – that defines the brand today.
Graham Beck top picks:
Cuvee Clive 2019
Opening with a delicate, nuanced bouquet of subtle white truffle and biscuit notes. On the palate, ripe orchard fruits and creamy lemon curd intertwine beautifully, while hints of warm pastry add complexity. A long, gentle finish of soft spice and sweet oak. 97 points
Blanc De Blancs 2019
Delicate stone fruits and orchard notes with white truffle and nutty textures. A beautifully intense palate with a vibrant mix of jasmine, marzipan and cream swirled spiced apple pie. Lingering lemon curd and a smooth, persistent mousse. 96 points
MCC Ultra Brut 2017
Fragrant fresh lemon and brioche aromas, met on the palate with crisp apple, biscuit, and blossom notes. It showcases lively acidity and a vibrant, persistent mousse, culminating in a toasty, flavoursome end. Energetic and playful with some serious poise. 95 points
Blanc de Blancs MCC Brut 2019
The nose reveals inviting aromas of honey and acacia, complemented by a hint of biscuity richness and orchard fruit. On the palate, zesty lime acidity and a delicate brioche flavour enhance the fine, mouth-filling mousse. The finish is refreshing, elegant, and lingering. 93 points
Ultra Brut 2018
A delicate aroma of gentle nutty notes and fruit intensity. On the palate, bright citrus and creamy mousse create an elegant balance, enhanced by mineral salinity and nuances of green apple, lime leaf, and lychee. 93 points
Cuvee Clive MCC Brut 2018
Enticing layered notes of apricot, toasted brioche, and pastry, brightened with a flourish of lemon. Flavours build in intensity, culminating in a creamy, rounded finish. 92 points
Pinot Noir Rosé 2019
Bright aromas of Alpine strawberry and raspberry mingle with a gentle creaminess with macerated cherry and spice provide both density and elegance on the palate, culminating in a delicate finish of dried herbs.
Pinot Noir Rose MCC Brut 2018
Aromas of vibrant red fruit and zesty citrus with a sense of freshness. The palate has a creamy softness with hints of cut apple and spicy undertones. 92 points
Cuvee Clive MCC Brut 2018
Fresh fruit notes with intense citrus and crisp green apple. The palate is juicy and zesty with fine bubbles and weight. Appealing and energetic. 91 points
MCC Pinot Noir Rosé Brut 2018
Pretty nose of wild herbs and red fruits with brioche notes on the palate, fresh acidity and a creamy mouthfeel. Excellent fruit concentration and a peach-filled finish.
