Pieter Ferreira retires from Graham Beck, marking a new chapter in South African Cap Classique
Pieter "Bubbles" Ferreira formally retires from his role at the estate, passing stewardship of the cellar to long-time Cellarmaster Pierre de Klerk.
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For nearly four decades winemaker Pieter "Bubbles" Ferreira at House of Graham Beck has officially retired, entrusting the cellar's stewardship to long-time Cellarmaster Pierre de Klerk.
Ferreira has been a defining force not just for Graham Beck but for the entire Cap Classique category. His vision and belief in South Africa’s potential to create world-class sparkling wines have played a crucial role in elevating the brand from a nascent wine producer to an internationally revered name. Graham Beck wines can now be savoured in more than 50 countries, consistently earning accolades as some of the finest bottle-fermented sparkling wines worldwide.
A legacy well earned
Ferreira’s impact extends beyond the vineyard gates. Known for his “boots on the ground” approach, he has tirelessly promoted Cap Classique in global markets, fostering mentorship among emerging winemakers and advocating for the burgeoning category. “Pieter’s legacy is not defined by a single wine or moment,” said Helen Kock, CEO of Beck Family Estates. “It lives in the culture he helped build - a culture of patience, precision, and belief.”
As Ferreira steps away, the House reinforces its commitment to continuity with the appointment of De Klerk. Having worked side by side with Ferreira, De Klerk embodies the same philosophy of respect for the vineyard and the winemaking process that Ferreira instilled in him and others. “I’ve had the privilege of learning alongside Pieter for over 15 years,” he reflects. “That philosophy continues to guide how we work every day.”
Charting the future
Un
der de Klerk's careful stewardship, Graham Beck aims to maintain its esteemed standards and stylistic identity, persisting in its pursuit of excellence on the global sparkling wine stage. Ferreira’s departure into personal ventures, including his own label, Pieter Ferreira Cap Classique, demonstrates his unyielding passion for the sparkling wine category and commitment to perhaps further enhancing South Africa's wine reputation.
To acknowledge Ferreira’s immense contributions to the industry, he received the prestigious Wine Advancement Award at the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event held at Groot Constantia on 5 February. This award recognises individuals who significantly elevate the global stature of South African wine - a fitting tribute to Ferreira’s time at Graham Beck and his transformative influence on Cap Classique.
A confident new chapter
Reflecting on his career, Ferreira said: “When we started, Cap Classique was still finding its voice. I believed deeply in what South Africa could do and Graham Beck gave us the space, the patience, and the commitment to prove it. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has built over the years, and even more confident in where the House is heading next with Pierre guiding it forward.”