Graham Beck Brut vs. Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel 2011 vs. Villiera Tradition Brut

Lubbly bubbly.

Something of a celebration last night, the occasion being the first birthday of our youngest daughter Eliza, and a selection of bubbly for the assembly of grannies, aunts and uncles. Graham Beck Brut up against Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel 2011 up against Villiera Tradition and my overall impression was how critic-proof these wines were. Lightly fruity, very little autolytic character, fresh acidities, fine mousses. Ideally, I’d like more complexity, the kind of extra nuance you get on Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs, Simonsig Cuvée Royale or Villiera Monro Brut, but then I’m not inclined to serve those with red velvet cake.