Constantia

Overview

Constantia is South Africa's oldest wine-producing area, founded in 1685 when Governor Simon van der Stel was granted land on the slopes of Table Mountain. The valley's east-facing vineyards catch cooling southeasterly breezes from False Bay and enjoy one of the highest rainfall figures in the Cape winelands. This cool, humid climate has long favoured elegant white wines.

Sauvignon Blanc is the modern star, often blended with Semillon, while the historic sweet wines known as Vin de Constance are made from Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains. A small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is also grown. The area's concentration of historic estates, including Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia, gives it outsized international prestige.

Key Varietals

• Sauvignon BlancThe signature white, showing crisp acidity, green fig, gooseberry, and a distinctive mineral freshness.
• SemillonOften blended with Sauvignon Blanc, adding texture, waxiness, and honeyed complexity.
• Muscat Blanc a Petits GrainsThe grape behind the legendary Constantia dessert wines, with orange blossom, apricot, and honeyed richness.
• Cabernet SauvignonA minor but high-quality red from warmer Constantia slopes, with cassis and herbal notes.