Sample award-wining wines, take a cellar tour and visit historical buildings at this 330-year-old vineyard nestled in the lush green Constantia Valley.
Groot Constantia Winery is one of the oldest wine-producing estates in South Africa and is owned by a non-profit company. It incorporates 408 acres (165 hectares) of fertile land in the Constantia Valley. Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape Colony, established the estate in 1685. Tour the cellars of Groot Constantia Winery to appreciate its history and sample a selection of fine wines.
Get insight into the daily activities of the winery on a guided cellar tour. Learn about the entire winemaking process, from the harvesting of the grapes to bottling and distribution. Find out about the different types of soil and grape varietals found here, including chardonnay, merlot, semillon and shiraz.
Stimulate your senses with a host of decadent aromas at a wine-tasting session. Pay an additional fee to take part in a chocolate and wine pairing tasting session to sample four wines and four chocolates. Purchase bottles of the winery’s highly acclaimed shiraz and Gouverneurs Reserve from the on-site shop.
Be sure to visit the heritage buildings and museum exhibitions. Browse displays of artifacts and photographs depicting the history of the estate in the Orientation Centre. See examples of period furniture in the restored Cape Dutch-style Homestead. Spot antique winemaking equipment in the Wine Museum,
Combine your winery tour with a memorable meal at one of the two restaurants. Dine on food created with fresh local ingredients. Savor the magnificent views from the al fresco dining areas.
Situated about 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Cape Town’s city center, the winery can be reached by car in around 25 minutes. On-site parking is available to visitors. An alternative way to reach the winery is by an organized tour operated by one of Cape Town’s many travel agencies.
Groot Constanta Winery is open daily, except for select public holidays. Cellar tours take place on the hour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Fees apply for wine tastings, cellar tours and entry to the museum buildings. Find full details on the winery’s official website.
