Located amidst the enchanting landscapes of the Cape Winelands, Klein Constantia emanates a timeless allure to wine enthusiasts and travellers alike.
With a history dating back centuries, this iconic estate is celebrated for its exceptional wines and relaxing atmosphere.
Here’s what you should know before heading to Klein Constantia wine estate 👇
📍 Location
Klein Constantia is situated on the slopes of Table Mountain in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
It’s a 12-mile drive (19 km) from Cape Town and easily accessible to visitors, making it a well-loved wine destination.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning landscapes of vine-covered hills and historic buildings, providing a memorable experience for those seeking an immersive experience.
📜 History
At a Glance…
🔎 The estate was founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel. 🔎 It quickly gained recognition for producing some of the finest wines in the world. |
Klein Constantia was founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the governor of the Cape.
Once Van der Stel recognised the unique potential for viticulture based on the soil and location, Klein Constantia quickly gained national acclaim for the exceptional wines produced on the farm.
The estate started exporting wine all around the world in 1718, after six years of standing dormant following Van der Stel’s death. Klein Constantia’s new owner resumed winemaking when he acquired the farm in 1712.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the iconic Constantia dessert wine — Vin de Constance — helped the estate to become internationally recognised.
The wine was such an exceptional product that it captivated renowned figures like Napoleon, Charles Dickens, and Jane Austen.
Klein Constantia went through a revival period during the 1980s when its new owner revitalised the vineyards and traditional winemaking techniques.
These processes have helped to make the estate known for its quality and elegance on both a local and international stage.
☀️ What Activities Can You Do on the Farm?
Klein Constantia offers a handful of fun and entertaining activities for visitors to fully enjoy on the estate.
🍷 Wine tasting
Klein Constantia offers daily wine tastings that allow visitors to sample their premium wines.
The tasting area is intimate and cosy. It’s built around a large serving table that greets you as you enter the room.
Your tasting will be presented by the estate’s friendly and knowledgeable hosts, who will provide information on each wine’s characteristics and production process.
They are also able to answer any wine-related questions you may have.
🍷 For Something Different Try: The Vin De Constance Tasting
A standout feature of the Klein Constantia wine tastings is their unique cellar experience — appropriately named the Vin de Constance Experience. Guests who book this tasting are taken to the iconic Vin de Constance cellar, where they can tap and drink wines straight from the barrel! You’ll also learn a bit more about the harvesting practices while enjoying a guided tour through the cellar. Tours take around 90 minutes and cost R1,000 per person. |
Wine tasting options at Klein Constantia:
- KC Signature Tasting (60 minutes): Includes five estate wines at R150 per person.
- Anwilka Signature Tasting (45 minutes): Taste the red wines from the Stellenbosch property at R150 per person.
- Our Sauvignon Blanc Story (45 to 60 minutes): Themed tasting offers three variations of the estate’s Sauvignon Blanc at R150 per person.
Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, as the tasting room can get quite full over the summer months. Visit the Klein Constantia website to secure your spot.
⏰ Operating Hours
The tasting room is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 (including bank holidays). |
🍇 Jeep tour in the vineyards
Explore the Klein Constantia property in a unique and unforgettable way with the estate’s guided Jeep tours.
Led by the farm’s knowledgeable guides, the tours take visitors on a scenic drive through the vineyards. During the tour, you’ll learn about the various grape varieties cultivated on the estate.
The guides also share insights into the farm’s viticultural practices, including its traditional winemaking techniques developed to enhance the flavour of the grapes.
Throughout the tour, you’ll discover the diverse terrain that Klein Constantia spans. This terrain plays a crucial role in how the flavours and aromas of the wines are shaped — your guides will also explain how this works.
The Jeep tour is one of the best ways to explore the historic vineyards, as Klein Constantia restricts access to this part of the farm for normal visitors.
At the end of the tour, you’ll be treated to a signature tasting experience, allowing you to sample the estate’s iconic wines that you spent the day learning about.
🛻 Vineyard tours are limited to eight people per car, four times a day — weather permitting. It’s recommended to book your seat ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Tours are charged at R450 per person and run for 45 to 60 minutes. |
🍝 Visit the bistro
Situated under beautiful Jacaranda trees, the Klein Constantia Bistro is a tranquil space that offers an elevated dining experience.
It’s an excellent place to visit after your wine tasting or if you want to round off a leisurely afternoon on the farm.
The bistro menu features a range of fresh and seasonal dishes designed to complement the estate’s wines.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the curated cheese platter served from the mid-afternoon.
The selection of local cheeses pairs perfectly with the estate’s famous Vin de Constance, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
💡 The cafe is open Monday through Sunday for lunch only. The kitchen closes at 15:00 with cheese platters available until 16:00.
A maximum of six guests will be seated per table, and large groups can only be accommodated by prior arrangement. No children under the age of 12 are permitted. |
🚗 What Does a Perfect Day at Klein Constantia Look Like?
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a perfect day at Klein Constantia:
🌅 Morning
- Start your day early by arriving when the estate opens to make the most of your visit. You’ll be greeted with a gorgeous drive into the wine farm, set amidst ancient trees on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg.
- Begin with a guided vineyard tour. Explore the picturesque vineyards, learn about the different grape varieties, and appreciate the unique terroir influencing the estate’s wines.
- Follow up your vineyard tour with a visit to the cellar where you’ll learn about the distinct winemaking process. You’ll also gain unique insights into the craftsmanship behind Klein Constantia’s acclaimed wines that takes them from grape to bottle.
🍷 Mid-Morning
- After the informative tours, indulge in a wine-tasting session. Sample a selection of Klein Constantia’s wines and let the flavours and aromas captivate you.
🥪 Lunchtime
- Head to the bistro for a relaxed and delightful lunch overlooking the beautiful vineyards. Enjoy dishes that pair well with the wines, featuring fresh and seasonal ingredients. Choose from meals like harissa lamb skewers, spinach and ricotta gnudi, and the fish of the day.
- Take the opportunity to purchase your favourite wines from the estate’s gift shop. The shop also has a variety of other souvenirs you can purchase as keepsakes.
☀️ Late Afternoon
- Enjoy the last sips of your new favourite wine and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings before heading home and taking in the beautiful drive out of the estate.
🍷 The Wines of Klein Constantia
Klein Constantia produces a variety of wines to suit every palate. From crisp white wines to rich reds and sweet dessert drinks, the estate’s range is a wine enthusiast’s dream.
The farm is especially well-known for its cool-climate wines, creating a range of different varietals of Sauvignon Blancs.
The Chardonnay and Riesling are also popular among locals because of their easy-drinking characteristics.
Klein Constantia also owns vineyards in the Stellenbosch region, which is where they produce their well-loved Anwilka range of red wines.
🔸 Vin de Constance
Type: Dessert wine.
Pairs Well With: Rich and decadent desserts, fruit tarts, and creamy cheeses. Perfect For: Special occasions worth celebrating. |
Vin de Constance is one of the most famous natural sweet wines in the estate’s portfolio. It’s a sweet dessert wine made from Muscat de Frontignan grapes left to raisin on the vine.
Once the grapes are harvested, they produce a complex wine with dried mango, fresh vanilla, citrus blossom, spices, and ginger fruit notes.
The result is a wine that has been described as liquid gold, not just because of its fantastic colour but also its elegant taste.
Vin de Constance is also one of the estate’s most award-winning wines and consistently receives stellar reviews.
It currently boasts double-gold award status, making it one of South Africa’s top wines.
Sauvignon Blanc
Type: White wine.
Pairs Well With: Fresh seafood, salads with goat’s or feta cheese, and vegetarian dishes. Perfect For: Outdoor gatherings in warmer weather while enjoying light meals. |
Klein Constantia produces a range of Sauvignon Blanc wines best known for their vibrant acidity and bold citrus flavours.
The wines have a distinct herbal aroma that produces a crisp and lively finish, making this wine exceptionally easy to drink.
The Sauvignon Blanc wines on offer at Klein Constantia are:
- Metis Sauvignon Blanc.
- Perdeblokke Sauvignon Blanc.
- Clara Sauvignon Blanc.
- KC Sauvignon Blanc.
Chardonnay
Type: White wine.
Pairs Well With: Creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, seafood in rich sauces, and meals with buttery or nutty flavours. Perfect For: Elegant dinners, celebrations, and decadent meals. |
The Klein Constantia Chardonnay is a crisp wine with a complex flavour profile.
Notes of butterscotch and nutmeg blend seamlessly with golden delicious apples and grapefruit. The result is a punchy and vibrant wine that will leave a lasting impression.
Riesling
Type: White wine.
Pairs Well With: Spicy cuisine, shellfish, pork dishes, and meals with fruity, sweet, or sour elements. Perfect For: Enjoying a refreshing glass of wine with your meal in the summer. |
Klein Constantia also produces a dry white Riesling known for being easy to drink.
The wine has vibrant flavours of stone fruit, citrus, and notes of white flowers that delight the senses. The Riesling is light and fresh, with a fresh acidity that provides a good balance.
Rosé
Type: Red and white wine blend.
Pairs Well With: Salads, light pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, seafood, and white meat like chicken and turkey. Perfect For: Spending a warm afternoon enjoying a picnic or casual gatherings. |
The Cuvée Anabel Rosé is an ode to the owner of the estate’s eldest daughter. It’s a refreshing yet complex wine with a perfectly pink appearance.
Flavours of peach, rose water, and florals combine with delicate spices to create a bold, crisp-tasting wine that is sure to delight.
Cabernet Merlot
Type: Red wine.
Pairs Well With: Red meat dishes like steak or lamb, game meat, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Perfect For: Dinner parties and occasions where you’re enjoying flavourful meat dishes. |
The Cabernet Merlot is an easy-drinking red wine with a complex and textured body.
In its sweet flavour profile, you’ll find aromas of red cherries, plums, and cedar wood. These flavours develop into a bold mid-palate with a long-lasting, rich taste.
Red Blend
Type: Red wine.
Pairs Well With: Grilled meats, hearty stews, tomato-based sauces, and medium-aged cheeses. Perfect For: A casual glass of wine during social gatherings like barbecues and dinners with friends. |
The estate’s red blend is produced to represent the unique location of Klein Constantia, allowing the winemakers to create a lively wine bursting with pleasant aromas.
Dominating flavours of strawberries, raspberries, and red peppercorns combine with delicate oak spices to create a refined and elegant wine.
Cap Classique Blanc de Blanc
Type: Sparkling wine.
Pairs Well With: Oysters, shellfish, sushi, and other seafood. Perfect For: Celebratory and festive occasions when you have something special to toast. |
Klein Constantia’s Cap Classique is a dry and fresh sparkling wine that is produced with complexity, freshness, and intense flavours.
The taste is elegant and expressive, with hints of orange zest, buttery and sweet flavours, with hints of lime that combine perfectly.
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