In Bond Fine Wine. 2023 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance, Constantia, Coastal Region, South Africa. White south africa-sweet white in 6x50cl. Top critic score: 100/100 (JA). 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…
James Suckling (JS) — 99/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 2026-07-01
Concentrated aromas of dried apricots, pineapple, caramel and honey. It’s full-bodied with a dense, intense finish, showing spices, limes, dried fruit and some toffee. Very sweet but balanced and fresh. A triumph for this South African estate. One of the best ever. Drink or hold.
Jane Anson (JA) — 100/100 · JaneAnson.com, 2026-07-01
As ever, this is just pure pleasure, and full of grace, apricot puree, intense and concentrated, with the most beautiful balance of citrus, grilled pineapple, truffle, fennel, uplift and joy. Matthew Day winemaker, 90ha estate, 18 months in 50% new 500L Hungarian and French oak barrels, followed by 16 months in large oak casks, 162g/l residual sugar.