Grande Constance

This dessert wine pairs excellently with a variety of sweet dishes. Recommended pairings include chocolate desserts, dried fruits, nuts, and both hard and soft cheeses. It also complements fruit-based puddings like lemon tart, pavlova, and fruit-topped cheesecakes.

The Muscat grapes for this wine are cultivated in vineyards adjacent to the historic Manor House at Groot Constantia, situated at elevations of 80 to 90 meters above sea level. The southeast-facing slopes, combined with a Mediterranean climate influenced by cooling Atlantic breezes, and soils comprising sandstone-based topsoil on partially decomposed granite, contribute to the unique terroir.

The wine matured in barrels for 24 months following fermentation, allowing it to develop its characteristic richness and complexity.

The grapes underwent fermentation on the skins for approximately one week before being pressed. Post-fermentation, the wine was racked and matured in barrels for an additional 24 months, enhancing its complexity and depth.

In 1679 Simon van der Stel was appointed by the Dutch East India Company to govern the Cape of Good Hope. After years of loyal service he requested land from the Company. He periodically sent out riders to collect soil samples. In 1685 he chose 891 morgen (about 763 ha) situated behind Table Mountain for its wine-growing potential and magnificent scenery. Over the years the wines produced on the estate caught the attention of influential people across the globe – clearly due to its impressive quality. Global aristocracy made sure that they had enough stock of this acclaimed and precious product. Our founder named his farm Constantia after the Latin word for constancy or steadfastness. These attributes he valued greatly and today we follow in his footsteps to uphold his enduring legacy of perfection at Groot Constantia.