Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2015

Drink now through to 2045. Serve chilled.

One of the world’s oldest wine estates, Constantia was founded in 1685 by the first governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel. The historic winery sits in the foothills of the Constiaberg looking out over nearby False Bay, a picturesque setting that is ideal for producing premium wines thanks to the cooling ocean breezes and granitic soils.

Prized by 18th century royal courts across Europe and drunk by Napoleon, Frederick the Great and Bismarck, Vin de Constance is easily South Africa’s most famous wine. This lusciously sweet dessert wine was revived in 1986 after detailed study of the winemaking methods and grape varieties which had traditionally been used. Much of the wine’s character comes from the cool night time temperatures which allow the grapes to ripen very slowly and retain good acidity levels to balance out the intense sweetness.

Following the harvest and vinification the final blending process takes place which can last up to six months. The young wine is then matured for at least 3 years in barrels and larger French oak foudres. The result is an incredibly complex wine with rich layers of ginger, marmalade, honeysuckle and mango overlaid with a lively freshness and rich sweetness. Ideal to pair with fruity desserts or to simply enjoy on its own after a delicious meal.