When it comes to sparkling wine, most people immediately think of Champagne. But did you know that South Africa has its own elegant and effervescent alternative? Meet MCC – Méthode Cap Classique – a luxurious, handcrafted sparkling wine made in the same traditional method as Champagne, but with a distinctly South African soul.
Whether you're toasting to a celebration or simply enjoying the finer things in life, MCC brings the bubbles, sophistication, and quality - without the Champagne price tag.
What is MCC (Méthode Cap Classique)?
MCC stands for Méthode Cap Classique, a South African sparkling wine made using the méthode traditionnelle—the same labour-intensive technique used to make Champagne in France. This process involves a second fermentation in the bottle, which produces the wine’s characteristic fine bubbles and rich complexity.
The term “Cap Classique” refers to the Cape Winelands, where South Africa’s best sparkling wines are produced. MCC has been around since 1971, when the first bottle was released by the renowned Simonsig Wine Estate.
Today, MCC has become a benchmark for quality in the South African wine industry, often rivalling—and in blind tastings, even outshining—some of the world’s best Champagnes.
How MCC is Made: The Traditional Method
MCC is produced using the traditional method, which includes:
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Harvesting premium grapes, often Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—the same varietals used in Champagne.
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Primary fermentation to create a base wine.
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Bottling with a mixture of sugar and yeast, known as the "liqueur de tirage", which triggers a second fermentation inside the bottle.
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Aging on the lees (dead yeast cells) for at least 12 months (increased in 2020 from previously 9 months), which adds depth, creaminess, and complexity.
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Riddling and disgorgement, where sediment is removed and a final dosage (sugar and wine mix) is added.
This meticulous process results in a refined, crisp, and complex sparkling wine—very much like Champagne, but with a distinctly South African flair.
MCC vs Champagne: What’s the Difference?
At first sip, MCC and Champagne may seem nearly identical—and that’s no accident. Both are made in the same traditional way, using similar grape varieties and production techniques. However, there are a few key differences:
| Feature | MCC (South Africa) | Champagne (France) |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Cape Winelands, South Africa | Champagne region, France |
| Method | Traditional (méthode cap classique) | Traditional (méthode champenoise) |
| Grapes | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier |
| Aging Requirement | Minimum 12 months on lees | Minimum 15 months (non-vintage) |
| Price | More affordable than Champagne | Often high due to brand and region prestige |
| Flavour Profile | Crisp, creamy, fruity, and mineral-driven | Elegant, rich, with brioche and citrus notes |
MCC brings you the same sophistication and celebratory sparkle as Champagne—without the Champagne price tag.
MCC vs Prosecco: Not All Bubbles Are Created Equal
While MCC and Prosecco are both sparkling wines, they differ vastly in production method, taste, and quality.
| Feature | MCC | Prosecco (Italy) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Traditional (bottle fermentation) | Charmat (tank fermentation) |
| Bubble Quality | Fine, persistent bubbles | Larger, lighter bubbles |
| Aging | Aged on lees, complex and creamy | No lees aging, light and fresh |
| Flavour Profile | Nutty, biscuity, citrus, and toasty notes | Fruity, floral, easy-drinking |
| Price Point | Mid to high, reflecting craftsmanship | Typically lower, casual enjoyment |
In short, MCC is closer to Champagne in both method and luxury, while Prosecco is lighter, simpler, and more casual.
MCC vs Carbonated Sparkling Wines: The True Difference Lies in the Bubbles
Not all sparkling wines are created equal - and the biggest difference lies in how the bubbles are formed.
Some inexpensive sparkling wines are made using forced carbonation, where CO₂ gas is injected into still wine, much like soda. This method is fast and cheap, but it produces larger, more aggressive bubbles and little to no complexity in flavour. These wines may sparkle, but they lack the finesse and ageing potential of bottle-fermented styles.
In contrast, MCC undergoes its second fermentation naturally in the bottle, creating smaller, finer, more persistent bubbles and giving the wine its signature creamy texture and depth. This is what sets MCC apart—it’s authentic, artisanal, and worth savouring.
Why MCC Deserves a Place in Your Glass
If you're looking for something celebratory, elegant, and truly world-class, MCC is a must-try. Here's why it deserves to be your next sparkling indulgence:
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Crafted with care and tradition, MCC showcases South Africa’s wine-making excellence.
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Award-winning quality that’s increasingly recognised on the global stage.
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Great value, offering Champagne-like luxury without the hefty price.
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Versatile pairing: MCC pairs beautifully with oysters, sushi, creamy cheeses, and even fried chicken.
From weddings to weekend brunches, MCC adds that magical sparkle to any occasion.
MCC Pairings with Singaporean Favourites
MCC isn’t just for canapés and caviar—it pairs beautifully with bold, spicy, and flavour-packed Singaporean dishes:
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Chilli Crab – The wine’s bright acidity and fine bubbles cut through the rich, spicy sauce and balance the sweetness of crab meat.
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Hainanese Chicken Rice – A Brut-style MCC complements the savoury poached chicken and fragrant rice without overpowering the delicate flavours.
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Laksa – A rosé MCC works brilliantly here—the subtle red fruit tones balance the creamy, spicy coconut broth.
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Char Kway Teow – The smoky wok hei flavours pair nicely with an MCC that’s been aged on lees, offering toasty, nutty complexity.
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Satay with Peanut Sauce – The wine’s freshness contrasts the richness of the satay and lifts the sweetness of the peanut sauce.
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Salted Egg Anything (Squid, Chicken, Fish Skin) – MCC’s acidity and fine mousse cleanse the palate after each rich, umami-packed bite.
Whether you’re at a rooftop bar, hawker centre, or home with friends, MCC adds a touch of sparkle to every bite.
Final Thoughts
MCC is not just South Africa’s answer to Champagne—it’s a world-class sparkling wine in its own right. With its traditional production methods, fine bubbles, and sophisticated character, Méthode Cap Classique combines Old World elegance with New World energy.
Next time you’re shopping for bubbles, think beyond Champagne and Prosecco. Choose MCC—and toast to something beautifully South African.
MCC has the elegance to rival the best and the versatilit to complement even Singapore's most flavourful dishes. Next time you're pairing wine with laksa, chilli crab or satay, skip the predictable choices. Pour a glass of MCC - and toast to good taste, global flair, and proudly South African bubbles.
