In Bond Fine Wine. 2009 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance, Constantia, Coastal Region, South Africa. White south africa-sweet white in 6x50cl. Top critic score: 95/100 (WS). Drinking window: 2014–2030. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, Klein Constantia is one of South Africa’s most historic and celebrated wine estates, set on the cool, ocean-influenced slopes of Constantia overlooking False Bay. At the heart of Klein Constantia’s fame is the legendary Vin de Constance, one of the world’s great sweet wines. Made from 100% Muscat de Frontignan, the grapes are harvested in multiple passes as they reach optimal ripeness and partial raisining on the vine, creating a wine of remarkable intensity, freshness and layered complexity. Historically known simply as “Constantia”, it was adored by European royal courts and was famously drunk by Napoleon during his exile on St Helena. Today it remains a benchmark for fine sweet wine, often compared with the great Yquem for its balance, purity and longevity. Klein Constantia also produce some outstanding cool-climate Sauvignon Blancs, crafted in…
Neal Martin (NM) — 94/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 01/10/2014 · Drink 2014-2030
The 2009 Vin de Constance Natural Sweet Wine had been in bottle around six weeks when I tasted it at the estate. It was harvested over three months from 25 separate batches, each bunch selected by hand and raised for six months to one year in 500-liter barrels. Matthew told me that he is looking for less time in barrel and more time in bottle before release. Then again, the 2003 is still in barre…