Region and Vineyards
Vin de Constance is produced at Klein Constantia, located in the historic Constantia region of South Africa's Western Cape. This estate, nestled on the southeastern slopes of Table Mountain, benefits from cool ocean breezes and moderate temperatures, ideal for slow ripening and aromatic development in Muscat de Frontignan.
The 2020 growing season was exceptional, marked by low rainfall and moderate summer temperatures, avoiding the region’s typical mid-March heat spikes. These conditions led to smaller, intensely concentrated berries and lower yields, which heightened the quality of the fruit. The unique environment allowed for rapid, even raisining of the grapes, leading to a compressed but precise harvest with 19 separate vineyard passes over just three weeks—an unusually swift process for this labor-intensive style.
Winemaking
The 2020 Vin de Constance is made from 100% Muscat de Frontignan, harvested manually as berries reach optimum raisining on the vine. After harvesting, each lot underwent individual skin contact maceration, with most lots receiving around two weeks of skin contact before gentle pressing.
Fermentation stopped naturally, preserving a residual sugar of 172 g/L, complemented by an alcohol level of 13.5%, pH of 3.92, and total acidity of 6.3 g/L, providing balance and energy. The wine matured in a two-stage process: first for 18 months in 500L French and Hungarian oak barrels (50% new), then for an additional 18 months in large oak foudres. The finest barrels were selected for the final blend, ensuring complexity and seamless integration. This balance ensures decades of aging potential.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Bright, golden hue with vibrant clarity.
- Aroma: A seductive nose of Seville orange marmalade, quince, candied ginger, and ripe stone fruits, with hints of red apple, floral notes, and toffee.
- Palate: Full-bodied and textured, offering layers of fruit, spice, and florals over a silky, lively structure. The sweetness is balanced by saline freshness and a roasted walnut dryness. Long, zesty, and complex finish.
Did you know?
Vin de Constance was once considered the finest sweet wine of the 18th and 19th centuries, famously enjoyed by Napoleon Bonaparte, King Louis XVI, and Jane Austen. The 2020 vintage, though modern in technique, continues this historic legacy, echoing the wines that captivated European royalty. Its drier style and refined salinity make it a singular expression within the genre of naturally sweet wines.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Foie gras with orange confit: The wine’s marmalade and nutty tones elevate this luxurious pairing.
- Duck breast with apricot glaze: A savory and sweet complement to the wine’s stone fruit depth.
- Gorgonzola dolce: A beautiful balance between the wine’s sweetness and the cheese’s creamy salinity.
- Almond and pear tart: Reflects the wine’s nutty and fruity elegance in a harmonious dessert match.
