1659 - Constantia

For who is still using the "new world" term when describing South Africa wine industry, ones should recall that viticulture date back from 1659.
The best way to understand it is to pay a visit to Constantia district, between Cape Town and Cape of Good Hope.

Among the eight estates, Three were part of the old Constantia 900ha property. Klein Constantia is probably the most famous due to its Vin de Constance, recalling of the sweet wine that was produced then.
The grapes use at the time were Pontac, Frontinac and Black Muscat. Unfortunatly, all these grape disappeared with Phyloxera that stroke the vineyards in South Africa in the 1880's.
After decades without production, the first new vintage of Vin de Constance 1986 was released in 1991. Made from Muscat d'Alexandrie, Constantia was back on the map.
And even if an increase in production is forcast in the future, the 2009 taste on the barrem looks very promising.

Another estate of the area, Constantia Glen higher in the Valley is also ùaking is path, and only after its first vintage.
In fact, 2007 has produced two red Bordeaux Blend, one the Saddle the second wine, needs older vines to be balanced, whereas Constantia Glen, the first wine shows already elegance and harmony, character given in this Bordeaux blend by an importnat part of Malbec and Petit Verdot. Their Sauvignon Blanc, yet more classic is also a bargain.

Cheers.

Benjamin.