Groot Constantia: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Nestled in the heart of the Constantia Valley, Groot Constantia stands as South Africa’s oldest wine estate, founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel. For more than three centuries, it has shaped the country’s winemaking story. During our visit, our sommelier guided us through both the wines and the estate’s remarkable history. We discovered that it's celebrated Vin de Constance, a naturally sweet Muscat wine (yes, we purchased a bottle to take home!), once graced the tables of Napoleon Bonaparte, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens, cementing its global prestige.

Today, Groot Constantia continues to produce award-winning wines—from Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay to Pinotage, Shiraz, and Merlot—while preserving its heritage through the Manor House Museum and Cloete Cellar. Recognized as a National Monument and part of the Cape Town Big 7, the estate beautifully blends history, culture, and modern winemaking.

The tasting room was an experience in itself. Whether or not it’s one of the original buildings, it was immaculate and filled with treasures: wine barrels, old carts once used for transporting bottles, and framed stories of notable visitors. An adjacent store offered everything from estate wines to South African keepsakes. Every detail, from the placement of artifacts to the spacious layout, invited us to pause and take it all in.

The vineyards, historic buildings, and inviting restaurants made the estate feel like more than just a winery—it was an entire day’s adventure, and one we’ll always treasure. Truly, “Groot Constantia is worth its weight in gold.”

And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we ventured into another cultural experience—High Tea in South Africa, a tradition often mistaken for afternoon tea. That’s a story you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for our next adventure!