Wines Constantia Groot Constantia - Grand Constance - 2012

Grand Constance from Groot Constantia, vintage 2012, is a renowned sweet white wine from one of South Africa’s oldest and most esteemed wine estates. Though the precise blend may vary, Grand Constance is traditionally produced in the style of historical Constantia dessert wines, famed for their balance of richness and freshness. The wine is crafted from selectable white grape varieties, most likely including Muscat de Frontignan—a grape long associated with the lusciously sweet wines of this region. The 2012 vintage hails from an excellent year where cool breezes and moderate temperatures allowed grapes to ripen slowly, concentrating both sugars and flavours. Vinification is meticulous and aims to preserve the delicate aromatic spectrum and the refined, viscous texture reminiscent of liquoreux wines, with subtle botrytised complexity possible in certain years.

Constantia itself is rooted in South African wine heritage, established in the late 17th century. Set on the coastal slopes not far from Cape Town, the region benefits from a mild maritime climate, cooled by the Atlantic Ocean and shielded by mountain ranges. Its weathered granite soils and gentle slopes provide ideal conditions for growing high-quality grapes, particularly those destined for dessert wines. Groot Constantia’s extensive history and scenic estate have made it synonymous with South African viticulture, especially for wines that echo the legendary allure admired by European courts in centuries past.

Grand Constance’s opulent sweetness, balanced by fresh acidity and intricate aromatics, makes it a delightful companion to classic desserts such as tarte Tatin, crème brûlée, or lemon posset. For a regional touch, consider pairing with traditional South African milk tart (melktert) or malva pudding, where the wine’s honeyed notes harmonise beautifully with creamy, spiced desserts. Blue cheeses or foie gras also offer a luxurious savoury contrast.

Serve Grand Constance well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C, in small dessert wine glasses to fully enjoy its aromatic elegance and layered palate. This wine also rewards patience, so consider cellar aging for additional complexity if you are so inclined.