Constantia

Constantia is in easily striking distance of Cape Town and is heavily visited by foreigners and locals. It is also one of the most prolific as produced a desert wine (Vin de Constance) in the 18th century was adored by Napolean, Jane Austen, Frederick the Great of Prussia and Louis Phillipe (France). The hype and notoriety of this region may deter those seeking the latest trends, but this region should not be missed.

Constantia is a wealthy suburb of Cape Town and the wineries located this region amount (give or take) eleven. The majority of vines are planted along the slopes of the Constantiaberg mountains which are cooled by the cold southeastern wind that flows from the Atlantic Ocean (known as the Cape Doctor) which lays just west of Constantia. While this region is known for its Vid de Constance, which has been revamped and is still produced to this day, it is the region’s Sauvignon Blanc that today is the best expression of the region. Nearly every winery in the area produce a Sauvignon Blanc and they are all consequential. Not be ignored are the reds produced in the region, which include outstanding Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. One should go to Constantia for the amphitheater like vistas and history, while one should drink its wine because it is exceptional and can compete with wines produced anywhere.

Four over for years we lived thirty minutes for Constantia and our daughter went to school in the area. Thus, we visited its wineries often, probably too often. While it is within the City of Cape Town, it certainly has a distinct country feel and is surrounded by nature. We enjoyed learning about outstanding Sauvignon Blancs and the history of the wines produced in the region, but also loved to have a cheese plate and wine tasting while staring at the vine covered mountains. Luckily, many of the wineries in this area are children friendly, which allows one to enjoy a glass of wine while the children play in the lush landscape.