2019 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance

Described as one of the world’s most beautiful vineyards, Klein Constantia is nestled amidst ancient trees and lush greenery at the foot of the Constantiaberg, with stunning views across the Constantia Valley and False Bay. The 146-hectare wine farm was originally part of “Constantia”, a vast estate established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape. This particular valley was chosen not only for its beauty but also for the decomposed granite soils on its slopes, which are gently cooled by sea breezes. The perfect location for cool climate wines, Klein Constantia produces some of South Africa’s finest wines, including one of the world’s finest natural sweet wines, Vin de Constance.

The approach used to create Vin de Constance is unique to Klein Constantia, based on historical information to create these iconic sweet wines of Constantia as it was done in 1700. From these traditions a style has been created that makes Muscat de Frontignan a perfect sweet wine. One of the key aspects to achieving balance is the harvesting of different plots at different stages of maturation over a period of 2 months. Each picking has a precise purpose and is intended to achieve a perfect balance between sugar, alcohol and acidity. After a longer fermentation period the wine is matured for 3 years in a combination of 50% new oak and 50% acacia barrels.

In the glass the wine appears almost pure gold in colour. The nose is seductive. Sweet but also fresh and this is what makes this wine so special. The wine has precise but delicate aromas of white flowers, ripe citrus and a hint of rosewater and almonds. The taste is in perfect harmony with a lush mouthfeel. Flavours of creamy stone fruit, lychee, citrus peel and lively spices are in abundance and create an ideal balance. It ends with a lively but complex long finish. The combination of residual sugar and alcohol content has a well-known preservative effect on bottled wine. This wine can age for many decades if not generations.

FACT: The wine is stored in our air-conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to collect the wine you will also receive a nice discount.