Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, the Constantia Wine Route is the go-to trip for wine lovers who prefer not to head too far from Cape Town. A short jaunt from the city centre, the wine route is a breeze, just a hair over 7 kilometres from one end to the other, making it the perfect wine-tasting experience, for those with limited time to spare.
This no ordinary wine region. With a history going way back to the 1700s, the Constantia Valley proudly stands as the southern hemisphere’s oldest wine-producing area. Thanks to cool maritime breezes and toasty summers, it provides the ideal conditions for exceptional grapes and exquisite wines.
So, prepare yourself for a day of top-notch wining and dining, as you sip and swirl your way from one remarkable winery to the next, with views that’ll make your heart skip a beat. And the best part? You’ll be back in the city before dinner.
On the Constantia Wine Route
1.Groot Constantia
Begin your wine-tasting journey at Groot Constantia, the oldest wine-producing estate in South Africa. Dating back to 1685, this place is steeped in historical significance, offering a portal into the country’s winemaking legacy. Its captivating setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for wine appreciation, exploration, and dining. Take a trip back in time with a guided tour through the historic Cape Dutch Manor House and taste an array of legendary award-winning wines.
2.Klein Constantia
Mentioned in the works of literary greats like Jane Austen and Baudelaire, and cherished by Napoleon during his exile, Klein Constantia is renowned for producing some of the world’s most exceptional natural sweet wines. While here, take a moment to appreciate the views, walk through the estate’s picturesque grounds, and savour their extensive selection of wines, ranging from Sauvignon Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon.
3.Constantia Glen
This boutique winery knows how to craft exceptional Bordeaux varieties. Take a seat on their stylish terrace overlooking the vineyards and savour their flagship red blends. Their modern tasting room sets the scene for a memorable glass or two.
4.Buitenverwachting
True to its name, Buiterverwachting, meaning ‘Beyond Expectation’, and a visit to this winery lives up to this promise. Their 18th-century Cape Dutch buildings and beautiful gardens create a charming setting for wine tasting. Their Sauvignon Blanc is a showstopper, and don’t miss their acclaimed dessert wines.
5.Steenberg Vineyards
This historic estate merges sophistication with exceptional wines. Explore their winery, dive into an informative cellar tour, and step into their elegant tasting room to savour their premium Sauvignon Blanc and Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines.
6.Eagles’ Nest
Up high on the Constantiaberg’s Mountain slopes, Eagles’ Nest offers a tranquil escape for wine enthusiasts. Their award-winning wines, with special nod to the Shiraz and Viognier, perfectly complement the breathtaking scenery. Be sure to check out their contemporary tasting room.
7.Silvermist Organic Vineyards
Framed by mountains and fynbos, this certified organic wine estate provides stunning vistas, a cosy tasting room, and an array of organic and biodynamic wines. Their boutique winery produces a limited but impressive selection of wines. Keep an eye out for their Silvermist Syrah.
8.Beau Constantia
Situated high up on Constantia Nek, it’s like reaching out to touch the sky. This sleek and modern winery produces award-winning wines. Try their premium red blends and soak in the jaw-dropping views over False Bay and the rugged mountain landscape.
9.Constantia Royale
Constantia Royale is a place where grapes, olives, and an equestrian yard coexist. Their portfolio includes limited production Sauvignon Blanc, and their wine tastings are a unique experience, taking place in an unconventional location, namely a tunnel beneath a highway. It’s in this very tunnel that they store their wine.
