Groot Constantia

Overview

Groot Constantia is South Africa's oldest wine estate, nestled in the Constantia Valley at the foot of Table Mountain. The Cape Dutch homestead and its legendary dessert wine, Vin de Constance, make it a cultural and oenological landmark.

Highlights

• Cape Dutch Architecture: The beautifully restored 1685 manor house and the ornate Cloete Cellar pediment by Anton Anreith.
• Wine Tasting: Sample the estate's award-winning wines including the famous Grand Constance dessert wine.
• Orientation Centre: A museum tracing the 340-year history of winemaking at Constantia.

History

Founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape Colony, Groot Constantia became renowned throughout Europe. Napoleon had 30 bottles of Grand Constance a month shipped to him during his exile on St Helena. Jane Austen mentioned it in Sense and Sensibility.

Visitor Tips

• Tastings: Several tasting options available from a basic flight to food pairings.
• Cellar Tours: Guided tours of the historic cellar run regularly.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.