2019 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance

Described as one of the world's most beautiful vineyards, Klein Constantia is set amid ancient trees and lush greenery at the foot of Constantia Mountain, with sweeping views over the Constantia Valley and False Bay. The 146-acre wine farm was originally part of "Constantia", a huge estate founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the Cape's first governor. 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 identify these iconic sweet wines of Constantia as far back as 1700. From these lore, a style has emerged that makes the Muscat de Frontignan a perfect sweet wine. One of the most important aspects to achieve balance is harvesting different plots at different stages of ripening over a period of 2 months. Each pick has a precise purpose and is meant to achieve a perfect balance between sugar, alcohol and acidity. After a longer fermentation period, the wine has 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 color. The nose is seductive. Sweet but also fresh and this makes this wine so special. The wine has precise but delicate aromas of white flowers, ripe citrus and a hint of rose water and almonds. The taste is in perfect harmony with a luscious mouthfeel. Flavors of creamy stone fruit, lychee, citrus zest and vibrant spice abound and create an ideal balance. It ends with a lively but complex long finish. The combination of residual sugar and alcohol content has a known preservative effect on bottled wine. This wine can age for many decades if not generations.