The Producer
Lautus launched South Africa’s first non-alcoholic wine in 2017, and has been leading the local de-alcoholised wine revolution ever since. Founded by winemaker Reg Holder — a Stellenbosch University-trained viticulturist who cut his teeth at Neil Ellis Wines and served as Cellarmaster and General Manager at Delheim — Lautus brings serious winemaking pedigree to the alcohol-free category. The inspiration was personal: Reg’s wife wanted a genuine wine experience during her first pregnancy, and that quest became a full-time passion. Based in Stellenbosch, Lautus combines traditional winemaking with advanced spinning cone technology to gently remove the alcohol while preserving the complexity, elegance and finesse of premium wine.
Vintage & Terroir
The Chardonnay grapes for this sparkling wine are sourced from premium Western Cape vineyards — the same quality fruit used by conventional winemakers. Lautus begins with real wine, crafted from carefully selected grapes grown in optimal terroir. The cool-climate sites contribute bright acidity and elegant fruit character, while the warm Cape sunshine develops the ripe, generous stone fruit flavours that form the backbone of the wine. Because Lautus starts with premium grapes and makes genuine wine before the de-alcoholisation process, the terroir expression carries through into the final product.
In the Cellar
This is where Lautus stands apart from most non-alcoholic wines on the market. The Chardonnay is vinified as a conventional wine, aged in oak barrels for 9–12 months to develop complexity and depth. It is then passed twice through a spinning cone column at low temperatures — first to capture and preserve the wine’s precious aromas and flavours, and then to gently remove the alcohol. The result is a de-alcoholised wine that retains the nuance, varietal character and balance of its alcoholic counterpart. Finally, natural carbonation adds the sparkling effervescence that makes this wine a celebration in a glass.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale golden-straw with a fine, persistent mousse and lively bubbles.
Nose: Elegant aromas of green apple, white peach and citrus blossom, with subtle hints of toasted brioche and vanilla from the oak ageing period.
Palate: Refreshing and well-balanced, with crisp apple and citrus flavours, a creamy mid-palate from the oak influence, and a bright, zippy acidity that keeps everything lively. The mousse is fine and delicate, adding a luxurious textural quality.
Finish: Clean, fresh and uplifting, with a citrus-driven tail and a lingering toasty note.
Food Pairing
Perfect for celebrations, brunches and any occasion where you want the sparkle without the alcohol. Pair with fresh oysters, smoked salmon canapés, or a light prawn salad. It’s also gorgeous alongside a cheese board, sushi, or a slice of lemon tart. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C in a flute or coupe glass.
Technical Details
| Vintage | NV |
| Region | Western Cape, South Africa |
| Grape(s) | 100% Chardonnay |
| Alcohol | <0.5% (de-alcoholised) |
| Process | Spinning cone de-alcoholisation |
| Closure | Sparkling cork & wire cage |
| Cellaring | Drink now |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Lautus Sparkling Chardonnay is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.
