Cape Heritage, Sweets, Fortifieds and Spirits
Timed Online Auction, 7 - 14 August 2023
Cape Heritage
About this Item
Described as one of the world’s most beautiful vineyards, the 146 hectares of Klein Constantia originally formed part of "Constantia", a vast property established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape. This particular valley was chosen not only for its beauty, but also for the decomposed granite soils on its slopes, gently cooled by ocean breezes. The property behind the iconic Vin de Constance has pedigree and provenance that stretches widely beyond sweet wine.
The re-creation of the legendary Constantia wine made in the 18th and 19th centuries, sought after by Napoleon, the aristocracy of Europe, King George IV and King Louis Philippe and praised by Charles Dickens, Jane Austen and Baudelaire!
Provenance
Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Pure orange peel, tangerine, persimmon and clementine flavors are laced with hints of green tea, candied lime peel and honeysuckle. Rich, but racy and mouthwatering. The gorgeous amber color and a caressing mouthfeel just add to the pleasure. Lovely precision. Should age nicely. Drink now through 2023.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 94/100 (2010)
‘Iconic dessert from unbotrytised muscat de F. No 03; 04 charming peach & spicy-nutty cream. Less intense than some yrs, but still luscious & dense. 130 g/l RS, 14.2% alc in full, rich finish. 05 sleeker; gleaming acidity in different, finer balance (160 g/l RS; 12.2% alc). Lovely floral depth, precise long-lingering finish. These reward 5-10+ yrs in cellar with more complexity. ± 3 yrs in combo steel, oak.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide, 4.5* (2009)