South African & International Fine Wine
Live Auction, 14 September 2019
Session Two
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
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 property was restored in 1983, with the 1988 vintage being the third to be bottled under the resurrected ‘Vin de Constance’ name. This was produced by legend winemaker Ross Gower and today it’s a rare and fully mature VDC. This wine was re-corked at Klein Constantia under supervision, assuring providence, quality and long life.
Provenance
Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Hugely complex on nose with Muscat fragrance, spice, white mushroom and some nuttiness, while the palate showed great focus and freshness. In terms of flavour, an almost peppery intensity before a long, saline finish.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za 18/20 (2011)
‘The 1988 Vin de Constance has a deep nutty color. The nose is fully mature but beautifully defined with lifted Muscat notes augmented by hazelnut, marmalade and a touch of mint. The palate is medium-bodied with a bright, citric entry with hints of rosewater, quince, orange zest and dried apricot. It is very focused and full of tension on the finish although to be honest, I cannot envisage it improving further and I would gladly drink any bottles I had sooner rather than later.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate 88/100 (2013
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