Desiderius Pongracz
Desiderius Pongrácz 2003, the signature Pongrácz Méthode Cap Classique, has wowed international judges at the 2012 International Wine & Spirit Competition in the United Kingdom, bringing home the Trophy for the best bottle fermented sparkling wine.
This exceptional achievement follows just a week after the Pongrácz prestige cuvée seized the moment at the Oscars of South African wine competitions with a Double Gold medal at the 2012 Veritas Awards.
The International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), one of the most prestigious of its kind in the world with entries from nearly 90 countries, awarded the triumphant Desiderius Pongrácz 2003 its highest rating, Gold Outstanding, in the bottle fermented sparkling wine category.
Founded in 1969, the IWSC aims to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs drawing on detailed technical analysis and specialist judging panels. “This international recognition of our magnificent Cap Classique shortly after winning Veritas Double Gold at home, is a wonderful reward for us and Pongi would have been proud!” says triumphant winemaker, Elunda Basson, referring to the pioneering viticulturist, Desiderius Pongrácz, whose life’s work and charismatic personality inspired the creation of the Pongrácz range.
Desiderius Pongrácz 2003, the graceful Cap Classique that carries his signature, is an elegant blend of the classic Champagne varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot noir, and is set apart by its distinctive fluted bottle.
It has a rich complexity and classic yeasty character imparted over time during prolonged maturation on the lees for over 7 years. As the wine matures it tends to develop a wonderful creamy, nutty character on the nose and a full bodied texture which lingers on the palate.
The award winning Desiderius Pongrácz 2003 is available at selected boutique wine stores at around R235.
