Exploring Klein Constantia: A Historic Wine Farm in South Africa
Good morning, wine lovers! Today, let’s dive into our visit to Klein Constantia, one of South Africa’s oldest and most renowned wine farms, founded in 1685. This stunning vineyard lies in the heart of Cape Town’s wine country and has a rich history, tracing back to Simon van der Stel, the governor of the Cape of Good Hope and original owner of both Klein Constantia and nearby Groot Constantia. While Groot Constantia is now owned by the City of Cape Town, Klein Constantia remains privately owned, with Czech businessman Zdenek Bakala as its primary investor.
Klein Constantia’s Notable Wines and Varieties
Though Klein Constantia is known for its range of wines, its red wines are particularly popular with wine connoisseurs worldwide. In the early 1980s, owner Duggie Jooste replanted all the grapes on the estate, and by 1986, Klein Constantia began producing its first sweet wines. While much of their wine is exported, you can still find select varieties locally in Cape Town, specifically at wine shops in Constantia Village.
Meridian wine is the only Klein Constantia wine available in general South African retail shops, but you can order any of their wines online with convenient courier delivery.
A Unique Production Process
Klein Constantia takes pride in its unique approach to wine production. They use stainless steel tanks to produce their sparkling wine, known as Cap Classique (often compared to Champagne—though only wines from the Champagne region in France can officially bear that name). Our tour guide, Victor, provided fascinating insights into Klein Constantia’s winemaking process and history, making our experience truly memorable.
Wine Prices at Klein Constantia
For those planning to visit or purchase from Klein Constantia, here’s a breakdown of their current wine offerings and prices:
- White Wine Range:
- Sauvignon Blanc 2023 – R185 per bottle
- Metis 2019/2020 – R295 per bottle
- Clara 2019 – R380 per bottle
- Perdeblokke 2022 – R650 per bottle
- Blanc de Blanc Cap Classique 2020 – R340 per bottle
- Chardonnay 2023 – R450 per bottle
- Red Wine Range:
- Estate Red Blend 2021 – R350 per bottle
- Estate Red Blend 2019 – R420 per bottle
- Anwilka 2020 – R425 per bottle
- Anwilka 2019 – R465 per bottle
- Anwilka 2018 – R505 per bottle
- Anwilka 2017 – R545 per bottle
- Magnum Range:
- Sauvignon Blanc 2021 – R450 per bottle
- Blanc de Blanc Cap Classique 2019 – R920 per bottle
- Estate Red Blend 2018 – R800 per bottle
- Vin de Constance Range: This iconic sweet wine, available from 2013 to 2021, ranges in price from R1,500 to R2,772 per bottle. The Magnum Vin de Constance collection ranges from R4,850 to R10,169 per bottle.
Visitors can also create customized collectors’ boxes—a perfect option for wine enthusiasts looking to curate their own selection.
A Cozy Experience at Klein Constantia
Our visit to Klein Constantia felt cozy, warm, and inviting. The friendly staff and picturesque setting made it an ideal place to taste a variety of wines and enjoy the beauty of South Africa’s wine country. With an extensive selection, from affordable bottles to exclusive vintage collections, Klein Constantia truly has something for everyone.
Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Cape Town’s wine farms. Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing our experience at Constantia Beau.
Wow must’ve been fun! Did you grab any wine yet? 😄