Private Cellar Selection

Timed Online Auction, 15 - 25 November 2024

Sweets, Fortifieds & Port

Sold for

ZAR 14 070
Lot 3
  • Klein Constantia; Vin de Constance; 1996; 2 (1 x 2); 500ml


Lot Estimate
ZAR 9 000 - 15 000
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 14 070

About this Item

1996 Vin de Constance
2 (1 x 2) 500ml

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!

Renowned for decades of aging potential, the 1996 is a stellar vintage with wine critic Neal Martin awarding it 94 points.

Provenance

Private Client

Critics Ratings

'A very different style of Vin de Constance, this has 'only' 112g/l residual sugar, matched with 8.7g/l total acidity. The lower sugar level is noticeable with a tartness to the palate and medium-weight making this seem closer to a top Tokaji wine than the others tasted. A little more rustic...' - Andy Howard MW, Decanter.com, 92/100 (Mar 2020)

The 1996 Vin de Constance is has a lucid amber hue. The nose is very engaging: marmalade, seaweed, quince, frangipane and a touch of chlorine – more like a mature Barsac than mature Sauternes. The palate is medium-bodied with a restrained viscous entry of mandarin, orange rind and quince. It is nicely focused and precise, even if it does not quite possess the delineation of the 2007 and 2008 on the finish. Very fine.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 94/100 (Oct 2013)

This has the color of dark iced tea, with a burnished edge to the maple, clove, date, green tea and mulled spice notes all laced with tangy acidity and a long, incense-infused finish. Clearly maturing in its flavor profile, but still with plenty of zip.--Non-blind Vin de Constance vertical ... 1,036 cases made.’ – Wine Spectator, 92/100 (2010)

View all Klein Constantia lots for sale in this auction