Constantia: South Africa’s Oldest Wine Region
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town, Constantia boasts a rich winemaking history dating back to 1685. This picturesque valley offers world-class wines, stunning mountain views, and a blend of Cape Dutch and contemporary architecture.
Towns and Villages
Constantia isn’t a town itself but a suburb of Cape Town. The area includes several smaller neighborhoods:
- Constantia Nek: Known for its restaurants and hiking trails
- Tokai: Home to the Tokai Forest and arboretum
- Bergvliet: A residential area with easy access to wineries
Wine Producers
Constantia’s wineries are known for their cool-climate wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux-style blends. Some must-visit estates include:
- Groot Constantia: South Africa’s oldest wine estate, founded in 1685
- Klein Constantia: Famous for its Vin de Constance dessert wine
- Buitenverwachting: Offers wine tastings and a fine dining restaurant
- Steenberg Vineyards: Features a luxury hotel and spa alongside its winery
Accommodations
Constantia offers a range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some top choices include:
- The Cellars-Hohenort: A 5-star hotel set in historic buildings and lush gardens
- Nova Constantia Boutique Residence: Intimate guesthouse with personalized service
- Glen Avon Lodge: Family-run 4-star lodge with beautiful mountain views
Dining
Constantia’s food scene complements its wine offerings with farm-to-table restaurants and fine dining experiences. Notable eateries include:
- La Colombe at Silvermist Wine Estate: Consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants
- Greenhouse at The Cellars-Hohenort: Innovative South African cuisine in an elegant setting
- Foxcroft: Casual fine dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients
Wine Shops & Bars
Constantia’s wine scene extends beyond the estates. Explore these local gems:
- Wine Concepts: Offers a curated selection of Constantia wines and international labels
- Constantia Wine Shop: Specializes in wines from the Constantia Valley
- Peddlars & Co.: A pub with an extensive wine list featuring local favorites
Other Shops
While wine takes center stage, Constantia offers other shopping experiences:
- Constantia Village Shopping Centre: Features boutiques, cafes, and a weekly farmers’ market
- Alphen Antiques & Collectables: Perfect for finding unique souvenirs
- Chardonnay Deli: Gourmet food shop with local products and ready-made meals
Attractions
Beyond wine tasting, Constantia boasts natural beauty and cultural sites:
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Showcases South Africa’s unique flora
- Eagles’ Nest Hiking Trail: Offers panoramic views of the valley
- Constantia Uitsig Bird Sanctuary: A haven for birdwatchers
- Norval Foundation: Contemporary art museum with sculpture garden
Events
Time your visit with these annual events:
- Constantia Fresh (February): Wine and food festival featuring local producers
- Constantia Wine Route Festival (October): Celebrates the valley’s wine heritage
- Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts (November-April): Live music in the botanical garden
Appellations
Constantia falls under the Coastal Region Wine of Origin (WO) classification. Key sub-regions include:
- Constantia: Known for elegant, cool-climate wines
- Constantia Kloof: Produces wines with distinct minerality
- Constantia Glen: Renowned for Bordeaux-style blends
Grape Varieties
Constantia’s cool climate favors white grape varieties. Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon thrive here, producing crisp, aromatic wines.
Red varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, often blended to create elegant Bordeaux-style wines. Shiraz is also gaining popularity in the region.
Main Wine Styles
- Constantia White: A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, known for its freshness and complexity
- Vin de Constance: A legendary sweet wine made from Muscat de Frontignan grapes
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, herbaceous wines with tropical fruit notes
- Bordeaux-style blends: Elegant red wines combining Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
Food Specialties
Constantia’s cuisine reflects its Cape Dutch heritage and proximity to the ocean. Fresh seafood pairs perfectly with local white wines.
Cape Malay cuisine, with its aromatic spices, offers a unique culinary experience. Try bobotie or lamb curry with a glass of Shiraz.
Drives & Walks
Constantia Wine Route
This scenic drive connects the region’s top wineries. Start at Groot Constantia and end at Beau Constantia, enjoying breathtaking views of Table Mountain along the way.
Constantia Nek Circular Walk
A 6km trail offering panoramic views of the Constantia Valley and False Bay. Begin at Constantia Nek Restaurant for a pre-hike breakfast.
Itineraries
Weekend Wine Getaway
- Day 1: Visit Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia, lunch at La Colombe
- Day 2: Tour Buitenverwachting and Eagles’ Nest, picnic in the vineyards
- Day 3: Morning walk in Kirstenbosch Gardens, afternoon tasting at Constantia Glen
Culinary Adventure
- Day 1: Cooking class at Silwood School of Cookery, dinner at Foxcroft
- Day 2: Wine and chocolate pairing at Constantia Uitsig, lunch at Chefs Warehouse
- Day 3: Visit Steenberg for MCC tasting, farewell dinner at La Colombe
Getting There & Around
Constantia is easily accessible from Cape Town, just 20 minutes by car. Uber and local taxis are readily available for wine tours.
For a scenic route, take the M3 highway south from Cape Town, then turn onto Rhodes Drive (M63) towards Constantia.
Public Transportation
- MyCiTi bus route 114 connects Constantia to Cape Town city center
- The Southern Line Train stops at Plumstead station, a short taxi ride from Constantia
Best Time to Visit
Constantia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant year-round. September to April offers warm, dry weather ideal for outdoor activities.
Visit during harvest season (February to April) to experience the excitement of wine production firsthand.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (September-November): Wildflowers bloom, perfect for scenic walks
- Summer (December-February): Ideal for outdoor wine tastings and picnics
- Autumn (March-May): Harvest festivals and cooler temperatures for hiking
- Winter (June-August): Cozy fireside tastings and hearty Cape Malay cuisine
Sustainability Efforts
Constantia wineries are committed to environmentally friendly practices. Biodiversity preservation and water conservation are key focus areas.
Groot Constantia leads with organic farming methods, while Klein Constantia uses solar power to reduce its carbon footprint.
Eco-friendly Initiatives
- Integrated Pest Management systems reduce chemical use
- Recycling programs for glass and packaging materials
- Cover crops between vine rows to prevent soil erosion
Language Tips
English is widely spoken in Constantia. Learning a few Afrikaans phrases can enhance your experience:
- “Dankie” – Thank you
- “Proost” – Cheers
- “Lekker” – Nice/Delicious
Wine-related terms: “Steen” refers to Chenin Blanc, “Pinotage” is a unique South African red variety.
Further Resources
For in-depth information on Constantia wines and travel:
- Constantia Wine Route: Official website with winery listings and events
- Wines of South Africa: Comprehensive guide to South African wine regions
- Cape Town Travel: Tourism portal with accommodation and activity bookings
Download the Constantia Wine App for real-time tasting room hours and directions.
