The sweet wine of Constantia has a long and illustrious history, with famous fans that include Napoleon Bonaparte, Queen Victoria, and literary giants such as Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Charlotte Brontë. The wine’s popularity is well-deserved, and it continues to be celebrated to this day.

Klein Constantia, an estate dating back to 1685, is responsible for reviving the production of the famous ‘Vin de Constance.’ The estate, located in the beautiful Constantia wine region near Cape Town, offers visitors an exquisite trail of estates to meander between. The traditional Cape Dutch homestead is contrasted by a contemporary winery designed by celebrated architect Gawie Fagan, which boasts a light-filled tasting studio and restaurant.

Klein Constantia grows a variety of grapes, including Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Riesling, and a variety of reds. However, it is the Muscat de Frontignan that steals the show. The dessert wine is made by allowing the grapes to ripen slowly into raisins on the vine, generating natural sweetness and acidity. Matured in oak barrels, the liquid is heady, complex, and beguiling, with typical flavours of honeysuckle, burnt toffee, orange zest, and the occasional hint of saltiness.

For those who love great food and wine, a visit to Klein Constantia is a must. The Bistro puts a European spin on South African cuisine, proudly using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The perfect accompaniment to the famous Vin de Constance.