Barnard says, "With the exception of a few boutique chains in the US, I struggled to find establishments that exclusively offer a variety of bubbly from different wineries. Estates usually offer only their own wines. Specialist wine outlets usually offer a variety of champagnes alongside the whole gamut of still wines, but none offer only sparkling wine or champagne."
Barnard is in the process of inviting producers of Cap Classique to join this new concept in wine marketing by having their products displayed and offered for tasting in The House of Bubbly. Upmarket accompaniments, such as oysters, smoked salmon and cheese will be offered with tastings in a light and minimalist boutique, which will be open seven days a week.
According to Barnard, a devoted bubbly drinker himself, "if it works here, it'll work anywhere," adding that if the first one proves to be successful, they intend opening more outlets in the not-too-distant future.
"Statistics show that consumption of sparkling wine is on the up. It's no longer seen only as a celebratory drink. Consumers are becoming more discerning and offering them a wide variety of Cap Classique under one roof seems the logical thing to do."
By participating in the House of Bubbly, wine estates will also enjoy exposure in the Bubbly Network, a new wine distribution concept based on the decades-old Tupperware idea. Best described as 'friends selling wine to friends in the comfort of their own homes', the concept is likely to appeal to organisations or individuals who wish to raise funds for charity or earn a supplementary income for themselves. Conceptualised as fun events where wine is tasted and sold, it may give Cap Classique sales a much-deserved boost.
For more information, call Allan Barnard on +27 (0)22 448 1110.
