Groot Constantia
is located in the Constantia Valley on the southern foothills of Table Mountain and is one of South Africa's most historic wineries. Wine has been produced here since 1685. Groot Constantia is therefore regarded as the country's oldest continuously producing winery and an important starting point in the development of South African winegrowing.
The story began with Simon van der Stel, the governor of the Cape at the time, who was granted a large tract of land in Constantia in 1685. After his death, the original estate was divided. However, Groot Constantia remained closely linked to winemaking for centuries. The historic manor house and the Cloete Cellar are now protected cultural heritage sites, making the estate's history immediately tangible.
The Constantia Valley has a distinctly maritime climate. Cool air from the Atlantic Ocean reaches the vineyards during the warm summer months, slowing down the ripening of the grapes. Depending on the plot, the vineyards reach altitudes of up to approximately 240 meters. South and southeast exposures, along with soils composed of weathered granite, red clay, and loam, create excellent conditions for Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and other white grape varieties.
Today's range, however, displays a significantly broader spectrum. In addition to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and the white Gouverneurs Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, and Pinotage are produced. These are complemented by Rosé, Cap Classique, and the red cuvées Gouverneurs Reserve and Lady of Abundance. The varying altitudes and soil compositions allow for the production of both crisp white wines and structured red wines within the estate.
Among the estate's most important wines is the Gouverneurs Reserve. This red cuvée comes from select vineyards and is aged in French oak after fermentation. The white Gouverneurs Reserve is based on Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, combining the freshness of Constantia's cool climate with added structure and aging potential.
Grand Constance occupies a special place. This naturally sweet wine is a continuation of the historic "Constantia Wyn," which achieved great renown in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. Wines from Groot Constantia were enjoyed at European royal courts and even reached Napoleon during his exile on St. Helena. Today, Groot Constantia continues this tradition with Grand Constance.
Groot Constantia thus combines more than three centuries of winemaking history with a diverse modern range. At Vin Africa, you will find both classic dry wines from Constantia and Grand Constance, which continues the extraordinary history of this appellation to this day.