Cape Classics Burgeons with Burgundy Wines

Top Wine Importer Expands Portfolio to Include Domaine Vrignaud and Maison Matisco.

Cape Classics expands its footprint in Burgundy with the addition of two new labels: Maison Matisco and Domaine Vrignaud. Both organic producers, they are classic representations of the appellations from which they hail in Burgundy: Vrignaud, a traditional Chardonnay from the North in Chablis and Matisco, the mascot for wines from the southernmost tip in Mâcon. Cape Classics, known primarily for being one of the top importers of South African wine in the U.S., began its foray into France just 18 months ago, and has already become a major force in the country’s wine export industry. The addition of these two brands follows last month’s announcement of the collaboration with Philippe Pacalet, the highly acclaimed Burgundian winemaker.

“We seek wines of true distinction that represent the terroir from which they hail, preferably from organic origins and are made by families and individuals who share our life philosophies. With Matisco and Vrignaud, we found real points of reference that complement our values and are reflective of authentic Burgundy style.”
– Andre Shearer, Cape Classics’ Chairman & CEO.

Maison Matisco

Maison Matisco uses grapes sourced from various AOCs in Burgundy allowing the producer to broaden its selections. This method ensures that each uniquely crafted wine expresses the individuality and specificity of its appellation.

• 2013 Mâcon-Villages: Clean and bright with distinctive lemon and mineral notes on the nose, this wine engulfs the palate with a lively acidity that leads to a supple finish. (SRP $19.99)
• 2013 Saint-Véran: Delicate yet multifaceted, an array of aromas floods the senses, with floral, white fruit and truffle notes showing most prominently. An opulent, yet fresh, long finish follows. (SRP $29.99)
• 2013 Saint-Véran Sur la Carrière: A golden hue and rich, multilayered aromas of pronounced stone fruit, flint and white flower. A full, luxurious palate complements the nose along with hints of honey that linger on the finish. (SRP $49.99)

Domaine Vrignaud

Embracing an organic winemaking approach, Domaine Vrignaud refrains from the use of fertilizers and chemicals, producing Chablis crafted with as little intervention as possible. Additionally, vintners perform an annual soil analysis to see if the vines lack anything vital, whether mineral or otherwise. Life in the soil is encouraged through a natural habitat of flora and fauna resulting in a higher quality grape grown with respect to the land.

• 2014 Chablis: Remarkably well balanced with a vibrant acidity and notes of crisp fruit. Chalky clay and limestone soils impart a solid mineral base that structures the wine. Ecocert Organic certified and vegan friendly. (SRP $24.99)
• 2014 Les Champréaux: Well-integrated oak adds a textural depth that is revealed on a charming palate that exhibits notes of apricot, honey, mint and crushed flowers with a hint of vanilla. Ecocert Organic certified and vegan friendly. (SRP $31.99)
• 2012 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume Vielles Vignes: A concentrated palate of hazelnut and white fruit notes linger on the lengthy yet delicate finish. Ecocert Organic certified and vegan friendly. (SRP $49.99)

“After our initial success in the Loire geographically, and due to our passion for Chardonnay, moving east into Burgundy was a no-brainer. It is among the most famous wine regions in the world, and we were eager to find exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for our customers.”
– Cape Classics’ President, Robert Bradshaw

To support the introduction of Matisco and Vrignaud, Cape Classics will present each range at fall distributor trade shows, where possible. The importer will focus efforts on offering lucrative multi-case pricing, stacks and by-the-glass opportunities to build a presence in on- and off-premise outlets. In addition, Cape Classics will place an emphasis on building new distribution, especially for each brand’s more scalable wines.