Description

PRODUCER:
Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest estate and one of South Africa’s most visited tourist attractions. In 1685, Cape Governor Simon van der Stel built a farm in the foothills of Table Mountain, which he named Constantia. Groot Constantia received world acclaim from Napoleon, Bismarck and King Louis Philippe of France, who was the biggest single buyer of Groot Constantia wines. Today, the estate is run by the Groot Constantia Trust and covers 165 hectares, of which 87 hectares are planted at an altitude of 60 to 280 metres above sea level. The vineyards are cultivated sustainably, and they hold the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) certification. The climate is generally cool resulting in complex and balanced wines.

VINEYARD:
This wine comes from various blocks that vary between 48 and 148 metres above sea level, on slopes that are south to south-east facing. The climate is Mediterranean with cooling breezes from the Atlantic Ocean, encouraging balance and complexity in the grapes. The average rainfall is approximately 1,100mm per annum. The soils are predominantly Hutton and Glenrosa- a gravelly soil with low fertility. The climate, combined with the cool southern slopes and deep mountain soils provide the ideal setting for the making of this top-quality wine.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were picked between 20 and 23 degrees Balling and were then cold-fermented at 12 to 15°C in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Following the fermentation, the wine was left on the lees for six weeks, adding texture and complexity. It was then racked, fined and stabilised in preparation for bottling.

TASTING NOTE:
This delicate shell-pink coloured rosé shows wonderful complexity on the nose, with notes of strawberries, raspberries, melon and a hint of jasmine. The fruit flavours are echoed on the refreshing and beautifully balanced palate through to a clean, dry finish.

GRAPES:
Cabernet Franc 3%, Cabernet Sauvignon 9%, Merlot 14%, Sauvignon Blanc 33%, Semillon 24%, Shiraz 17%.