Sweet sweet
Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2017 is one of the world’s most iconic sweet wines, reviving the glory of the legendary 18th-century Constantia wines. Made exclusively from Muscat de Frontignan grapes, this wine is a story of history, patience, and craftsmanship captured in a single bottle.
In the glass, it reveals a bright golden hue. The aroma is subtle and captivating: white flowers, ripe citrus fruits, lychee, a hint of rosewater, and almonds. On the palate, there is an exceptional balance between sweetness, acidity, and texture. Flavors of peaches, citrus zest, and warm spices dominate, while the long, complex finish highlights both elegance and winemaking mastery.
The grapes used for this wine are grown in the historic Klein Constantia vineyard in South Africa’s Constantia region. The area’s cool climate – influenced by the ocean, particularly the cold Benguela Current – and unique soil composition make it ideal for Muscat de Frontignan.
The winemaking process is unique: grapes were harvested over multiple passes through the vineyard over more than two months to achieve optimal sugar and acid balance. After a long fermentation, the wine was aged for three years in a combination of 50% new oak and acacia barrels, as well as large-format foudres.
Serve at 10-12 °C. Pairs well with foie gras, mouldy cheeses, spicy Asian dishes such as Thai chicken or spicy duck curry, as well as apricot tartlets, citrus desserts or almond cake.
Described as one of the world’s most beautiful vineyards, Klein Constantia is set amidst ancient trees and lush greenery on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg, with superb views across the Constantia Valley and False Bay. The Hectare Wine Estate originally formed part of "Constantia", a vast property established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape. This particular valley was chosen not only for its beauty, but also for the decomposed granite soils on its slopes, gently cooled by ocean breezes. Prized by leaders and aristocracy throughout 18th Century Europe, Constantia’s Vin de Constance was revived by Klein Constantia in 1986, reaffirming this unique natural sweet wine’s place in history. Today, Klein Constantia continues to make some of South Africa’s top wines and the world’s best dessert wine; wines that reflect the cool Constantia climate, as well as their historic tradition.