Natural sweet wine from Muscat de Frontignan (Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains) picked in 26 passes from high-acidity berries to late raisins; each lot was vinified separately, then blended during the latter part of fermentation so it stops naturally (no fortification). Maturation was 18 months in 500 L barrels (≈50% new) followed by 18 months in large foudres. 13.89% alc; RS 166 g/L; TA 6.1 g/L; pH 3.71. Expect bright stone-fruit and citrus-blossom scents with nutmeg/ginger spice and a creamy, long, finely balanced finish.
Klein Constantia 'Vin de Constance' 2019 (500ml)
Klein Constantia’s vineyards rise from 70 to 343 m on the south- and east-facing slopes of the Constantiaberg, just ~10 km from the ocean, yielding some of the Cape’s coolest sites. Soils are decomposed granite (notably Oakleaf below and drier Glenrosa upslope), promoting water retention and slow ripening; the estate farms 146 ha and is a WWF Conservation Champion. Alongside Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat de Frontignan is grown specifically for Vin de Constance. Founded from Simon van der Stel’s 1685 Constantia grant, the property was named “Klein Constantia” in 1823.
A maritime ward within the Cape Town district, Constantia sits on the Cape Peninsula and is cooled by Atlantic/False Bay breezes; mean February temperature is ~20.6 °C. Annual rainfall is around 1,000 mm, so irrigation is generally unnecessary. Vineyards lie on the east-facing slopes of the Constantiaberg, with soils derived from Table Mountain sandstone and decomposed granite, conditions that favour freshness and aromatic definition. It is South Africa’s oldest winegrowing area, historically renowned for sweet “Constantia” wines.
