2013-11-20

The beautiful Constantia Wine Route may not be as well-known as the famous Cape Winelands, but for those seeking more intimate wine tours in Cape Town, this route offers a conveniently located exploration into the world of wine. 

The fertile Constantia Valley began to function as a wine-growing region in 1685, making it the oldest wine route in the Southern peninsula. Today, the route comprises just nine estates that are set against a scenic background of mountains and woodlands.

As Constantia is situated less than half an hour from the City Centre, its location in the southern suburbs make it ideal for visitors who want to enjoy wine tours in Cape Town without having to venture too far. Location aside, this wine route offers plenty of other highlights, from fine dining to historic landmarks, picnics and intimate cellar tours. 

Keen to find out what the Constantia Wine Valley has to offer? Keep reading to get the full low-down on wine tasting in this part of the peninsula… 

Rewarding Wine Tours in Cape Town



As we mentioned earlier, this wine route is made up of nine wine farms. It is quite possible to see all of them in a single day, but to truly enjoy what each has to offer, it’s often best to try a tour that focuses on just a few estates. That way, you will be able to take cellar tours, explore the vineyards, meet the wine makers, taste some wine and still enjoy lunch, without a mad rush. Our pick of the best estates to visit on wine tours in Cape Town, Constantia include the following: 

1. Buitenverwachting

Meaning ‘beyond expectations’ in Dutch, this is one of the route’s best-known estates. It forms part of the original farm discovered by early governor Simon van der Stel, and today is a thriving estate spanning across 150 hectare. Wines produced: 

Buiten Blanc  

Sauvignon blanc  

Sauvignon blanc Hussyes Vlei  

Chardonnay  

Blanc de Noir  

Meifort 

Merlot  

Cabernet Sauv. 

Cabernet Franc 

Christine 

1769 Dessert wine  

Grappa

2. Constantia Uitsig

Known until 1940 as Constantia View, Constantia Uitsig today encompasses an award-winning winery, boutique hotel, luxurious, a private cricket oval and three restaurants (including the famous dining establishment of La Colombe). Wines produced: 

Constantia Uitsig MCC  

Constantia Uitsig Sauvignon Blanc 

Constantia Uitsig Chardonnay  

Constantia Uitsig Semillon  

Constantia Uitsig Constantia White 

Constantia Uitsig Constantia Red  

Constantia Uitsig Muscat d’Alexandrie 

3. Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia has a history dating back well over 300 years. The grounds of the estate are truly exceptional, with a large lawn that is ideal for picnics and a hidden historical bath pool set above the lawn’s gentle rolling hills. Wines produced: 

Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc  

Sauvignon Blanc  

Gouverneurs Reserve (White)  

Chardonnay 

Cap Classique  

Blanc de Noir  

Constantia Rood  

Merlot 

Shiraz 

Shiraz (No sulphur)  

Cabernet Sauvignon 

Gouverneurs Shiraz 

Gouverneurs Reserve 

Cape Ruby Port  

Grand Constance 

4. Klein Constantia 

Often labeled the most scenic place to enjoy wine tasting tours in Cape Town, Klein Constantia is set on a 146 hectare estate that formed part of the original farm. One of its specialties is Vin de Constance – a re-creation of a legendary Constantia wine enjoyed in its early days. Wines produced: 

Sauvignon Blanc

Vin de Constance

Chardonnay

Methode Cap Classique

Cabernet Sauvignon

Riesling

Semillon

Pinot Noir

Shiraz

5. Steenberg Vineyards

The oldest farm on the route, Steenberg lies on the foothills of the Steenberg Mountains. The estate was established in 1682, and today includes a golf course, restaurant and beautiful surrounds. Wines produced: 

Klein Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 

Klein Steenberg Rosé 

Klein Steenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 

Steenberg 1682 Chardonnay Mèthode Cap Classique

Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 

Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 

Steenberg HMS Rattlesnake Sauvignon Blanc 

Steenberg HMS Sphynx Chardonnay

Steenberg HMS Echo Red Blend

Steenberg Merlot 

Steenberg Shiraz  

Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir Mèthode Cap Classique 

Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc Reserve  

Steenberg Semillon 

Steenberg Nebbiolo 

Catharina 

Magna Carta 

Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir Mèthode Cap Classique  

Steenberg Magna Carta 

6. Beau Constantia

Beau Constantia is a small boutique wine farm that lies on Constantia Nek. The farm is situated at a high elevation, providing visitors with a panoramic view that stretches all the way across the peninsula. There is also a small hotel and excellent spa within its grounds. Wines produced: 

Pas De Nom Red

Beau Constantia Cecily – Viognier  

Beau Constantia Cecily 

Pas de Nom White 

Beau Constantia Lucca

Beau Constantia Aiden 

Where Else to Enjoy Wine Tasting Tours in Cape Town? 

Done the Constantia Wine Route and keen to see the rest of the peninsula’s vineyards? The Cape Winelands is another place that offers excellent tours. Here, you can choose between half day wine tours and full day wine tours in Cape Town depending on your time and preferences. 

Have you recently been wine tasting? Share your experience below and let us know which Cape wines you enjoyed the most! To get you started, my favourite wine is the Methode Cap Classique – Cape Town’s very own champagne. Aaaand… go! 

The post Wine Tours in Cape Town: Exploring The Constantia Wine Route appeared first on cometocapetown.com.

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