Description
Groot Constantia Grand Constance is one of South Africa’s most historically significant sweet wines, with deep roots in Constantia and a style that continues to set it apart. Made from Muscat de Frontignan with a touch of red Muscat, it captures the richness expected of a dessert wine while holding onto the freshness that gives the best examples their shape and longevity. This is a wine that feels at once generous and controlled, built as much for the table and the cellar as for the occasion.
In the glass, it shows a radiant amber color. The nose is intensely aromatic, with orange zest, dried apricot, ripe mango, and gentle oak spice rising from the glass. On the palate, the sweetness is creamy and luxurious, but it is lifted by vibrant natural acidity that keeps the wine poised rather than heavy. The finish is long, layered, and persistent, making it especially well suited to blue cheese, apricot tart, baked stone fruit desserts, or simply served on its own at the end of a meal.
Grand Constance is also a wine that rewards patience. While already compelling in its youth, its balance of sweetness, acidity, and oak maturation makes it a strong candidate for long-term cellaring.
In the glass, it shows a radiant amber color. The nose is intensely aromatic, with orange zest, dried apricot, ripe mango, and gentle oak spice rising from the glass. On the palate, the sweetness is creamy and luxurious, but it is lifted by vibrant natural acidity that keeps the wine poised rather than heavy. The finish is long, layered, and persistent, making it especially well suited to blue cheese, apricot tart, baked stone fruit desserts, or simply served on its own at the end of a meal.
Grand Constance is also a wine that rewards patience. While already compelling in its youth, its balance of sweetness, acidity, and oak maturation makes it a strong candidate for long-term cellaring.
The fruit was sourced from southeast-facing vines planted on sandstone and decomposed granite soils. Naturally desiccated Muscat berries were hand-harvested in mid-April, then fermented on the skins before gentle pressing. Fermentation was completed in old barrels to achieve the desired balance of sweetness, and the wine was aged for 24 months in barrel before release.
Winemaker: Daniel Keulder and Shannon Jacobs
Winemaker: Daniel Keulder and Shannon Jacobs
Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest wine estate, founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel. Nestled in the historic Constantia Valley, this national monument produces award-winning estate wines that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and cool-climate terroir. Led by a mission to preserve cultural heritage, Groot Constantia offers visitors a rare blend of history, hospitality, and world-class winemaking.
