Klein Constantia – The Soul of South African Fine Wine

Klein Constantia is one of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine estates. Nestled on the eastern slopes of the Constantiaberg, just 20 km from Cape Town, the 146-hectare estate is blessed with decomposed granite soils, a cool maritime climate, and south-facing slopes caressed by breezes from False Bay. These natural conditions provide the perfect environment for producing wines of exceptional freshness, precision, and elegance.

A Legacy Dating Back to 1685

Founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, Governor of the Cape, Klein Constantia was originally part of the historic Constantia estate, which became world famous in the 18th century for its legendary sweet wine: Vin de Constance. Under the Cloete family, this nectar gained an illustrious reputation — savored by Napoleon Bonaparte, celebrated by Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, and cellared by Louis XVI.

After the phylloxera crisis at the end of the 19th century, the estate’s fame faded, and its iconic wine disappeared for nearly a century. In 1986, the Jooste family revived Vin de Constance, restoring the vineyards and the cellars. Today, the estate is co-owned by Zdeněk Bakala and Charles Harman and regularly ranks among the World’s Best Vineyards.

An Exceptional Terroir

• Soils: Decomposed granite and clay-loam, rich in minerals and naturally well-drained, providing both power and finesse.
• Climate: Cool, ocean-influenced conditions with mild temperatures and over 1,000 mm of annual rainfall, allowing for slow and even ripening.
• Vineyards: 82 hectares planted — 70% white varieties (Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Muscat de Frontignan) and 30% red (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot).
• Viticulture: Sustainable, environmentally conscious farming, manual harvesting, and parcel-by-parcel vinification to reflect each site’s true identity.

Signature Wines

• Vin de Constance — The estate’s legendary sweet wine made from Muscat de Frontignan harvested in multiple passes and aged for years in oak casks. Aromas of apricot, quince, orange peel, and warm spice with extraordinary aging potential.
• Estate Sauvignon Blanc & Perdeblokke Sauvignon Blanc — Pure, mineral expressions of Klein Constantia’s cool terroir, marked by citrus, gooseberry, and wet stone precision.
• Riesling — A rare dry South African Riesling, vibrant, floral, and full of tension with crisp acidity.
• Estate Red Blend / Anwilka — Bordeaux-inspired blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, aged in French oak for structure and depth.
• KC Range — Elegant, approachable wines designed for early drinking, expressing Klein Constantia’s hallmark freshness.
• MCC Brut — A traditional-method sparkling wine made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with fine bubbles and delicate brioche notes.

A Philosophy of Precision & Purity

Every wine at Klein Constantia reflects a deep respect for nature, history, and artisanal craftsmanship. The estate combines heritage and innovation to express the essence of the Constantia Valley: pure, balanced, elegant, and timeless.

Signature Style

• Historic Constantia terroir, established in 1685
• Legendary Vin de Constance, enjoyed by historic figures
• Cool-climate, ocean-influenced vineyards
• Precision winemaking with sustainable viticulture
• Wines of freshness, finesse, and great aging potential