Klein Constantia is a historic wine estate located in the Constantia Valley of Cape Town, South Africa. Its origins trace back to 1685, when Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape, established the vast Constantia estate. Klein Constantia later became a distinct property in 1823, formed from a subdivision of the original Constantia farm.

The estate is globally renowned for its iconic natural sweet wine, Vin de Constance, a recreation of the legendary Constantia wine that was highly sought after by European royalty and figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and Jane Austen in the 18th and 19th centuries. After a period of dormancy, Vin de Constance was successfully resurrected in 1986.

Klein Constantia is situated on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg, benefiting from decomposed granite soils, cool ocean breezes, and a unique microclimate conducive to producing high-quality wines. Beyond Vin de Constance, the estate is also recognized for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and a range of other elegant dry wines. 

Since 2011, Klein Constantia has been under the ownership of Zdenek Bakala and Charles Harman, and in 2012, it merged with Stellenbosch farm Anwilka, further strengthening its position in the South African wine industry. The estate is also a WWF Conservation Champion, committed to environmentally responsible practices.

Perdeblokke’ refers to the horses that tilled the soils of the steep vineyard located 200-220 metres above sea level on the slopes of the Constantiaberg, after which it
was named. Since it was planted, the ‘Perdeblokke’ has yielded grapes of the highest quality giving us a distinctly unique Sauvignon Blanc, which prompted the decision to produce the first vintage of this ‘single vineyard’ wine in 2005. It is only made in years of exceptional quality.

The vineyard is harvested at 4o’clock in the morning in order to preserve the freshness of the grapes. It is divided into 2 sections; one East facing and the other South facing. Grapes from each block are fermented and vinified separately allowing each to express their unique style and true terroir. The wine underwent natural fermentation initially in tank, followed by oak. It was left on the lees for a period ofin 20% New French Oak before blending and bottling. Perdeblokke is a selection of the 5 best barrels that make up the final blend.

Bright and strawlike in appearance. Leading with intense aromas of blackcurrant, buchu and fynbos, both the nose and palate are immediately engaged and enticed by complex layers of stone fruit and oyster shell flavours. The palate is textured with a vibrant acidity. Elegant and fresh, the wine concludes with a long mineral finish.

Tim Atkin – 96 points