Groot Constantia travels back to the future

In celebration of Groot Constantia's 325th anniversary, the estate has released a natural sweet wine that evokes the farm's rich history. This wine is bottled in an 18th century-style bottle embossed with a replica of the ‘Constantia Wyn' emblem and sealed with red wax, as was the custom at that time. Each bottle is individually packaged in a wooden box made of oak from the old barrels and staves used in the cellar, and includes a pamphlet telling the story.

 

Grand Constance is a blend of red and white Muscat de Frontignan grapes which were left on the vine for an extended period of ripening to increase the sugar levels. No botrytis developed, due to the fact that these grapes have a very thick, and therefore more resistant, skin. The wine spent 24 months in older barrels after fermentation was completed.

The beautiful amber-coloured wine is packed with flavours like dried apricots, honey, raisins and caramel. It is a perfect partner with sautéed duck liver at Jonkershuis restaurant on the estate, and for the sweet tooth, try the baked cheesecake. Bottles are sold at R295 from the farm. Tel 021 794 5128.