“Nothing more excellent or valuable than wine was every granted by the gods to man.” Plato
Each wine region has its own story, own pioneers, quirks and challenges. It seems like my attention is currently very much drawn to the region of South Africa and more specifically Constantia.
The ward of Constantia is situated on the southeastern slopes of mountains separating the city of Cape Town from False Bay. Although it’s quite small, it certainly deserves its reputation as this is where the country’s first vineyards were established.
Notable producers include Klein Constantia, Constantia Glen, Steenberg and Groot Constantia.
If you are looking for a wine with a grand history and tradition, look no further than Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm dating back to as early as 1685.
Groot Constantia is an important part of World Wine Heritage and a world-class international tourism destination. Groot Constantia received world acclaim from Napoleon, Bismarck and King Louis Philippe of France who was the biggest single buyer of Groot Constantia wines. You can read more about the farm and the brand HERE.
The quality, style and value of South Africa’s wines makes them excellent buys today. My tastings used to be dominated by its rustic Pinotage and you can read about my experience and recommendations HERE.
Once known for bold, oaky wines, South Africa has evolved to more graceful styles like this delicious Groot Constantia Merlot 2017.
The Mediterranean climate with cooling breezes from the Atlantic Ocean, combined with the cool southern slopes and deep mountain soils provide the ideal setting for the production of this top quality complex and balanced wine.
Matured for 18 months in French oak barrels results is a rich and ripe Merlot with mulberry and vanilla flavours.
Aroma: the 2017 is a rich and ripe Merlot delivering aromas of sun ripened plum, mocha coffee and dark chocolate.
Palate: A fruity, medium-bodied Merlot with mulberry and vanilla flavours complemented by delicate hints of wood flavours like oak spice, tobacco and cinnamon. True punch of flavour! The ripe black fruit and wood spice follow on the palate, the long finish supported by firm lingering tannins.
Pairs well with: beef, lamb, venison, pasta dishes or fine cheese.
Where to buy:
VINVM
Great Wines Direct
Vivino
Simply Wines Direct
Wine Poole
Grower: Groot Constantia
Grape Variety: 100% Merlot
Style: Smoky and Savoury
Appellation: Constantia
Vintage: 2017
Closure: Cork
You may find some of my other favourite wine/champagne related posts inspiring to try something new.
Sumptuous Beringer Merlot
Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks
Cuvée Rosé Laurent-Perrier Champagne
Peculiar Pinotage
Chunky Zinfandel
Author
Thank you Carrie xx
Author
Thank you Jyoti xx
Author
Thank you Rach xx
Author
Thank you Eileen xx
Author
Thank you Kinga xx
Author
Thank you Paola xx
Author
Thank you Angelica xx
Author
Thank you Radi xx
Author
Thank you Julia xx
Author
thank you Didier xx
Author
thank you Jill xx
I love merlot and this wine sounds delicious! You look beautiful!
Jill – Doused in Pink
It sounds delicious!
-Didier
http://www.didieryhc.com
I love a glass of red wine, although I would find it difficult to pick a favorite! This one sounds delicious and you look gorgeous as always!
Julia x
https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/
Author
Thank you! xx
Author
Same here, I have a few fave but the list is growing as I love trying new ones. xx
Author
thank you! xx
The wine sounds delicious! And you look gorgeous!
xx, Jane
http://www.fitfabfunmom.com
Sounds great, and you look like you are enjoying!
I could not choose a favorite, I love discovering new wines!
Have a wonderful week,
S
You look fabulous and that wine look very delicious. Enjoy!
http://www.exclusivebeautydiary.com
Gorgeous photos! I love to enjoy a glass of wine. One of my faves is sangria.
http://www.fashionradi.com
Sounds delicious! And may I say the content you created with it is suberb.
XX Angelica
https://eraenvogue.com
This wine sounds good… cheers to your beauty babe!
Kisses, Paola.
Expressyourself
My Instagram
I love vine ❤
This wine sounds so lovely! Also loving your striped dress! So pretty!
Eileen | yesmissy.com
This sounds amazing!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
This wine sounds so delicious !! Wonderful Post! Have a great day!
Rampdiary | Fineartandyou | Beautyandfashionfreaks
Oohhh, what a beautiful spread and I bet this wine is delicious!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
Author
same here. I’m currently tasting lots of wines from Groot Constantia xx
Author
It’s incredibly delicious! I also recommend Pinotage from Groot Constantia xx
This wine sounds delightful!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
I like S africans wines, I have tried a gewurtsz so far now I want to try this one!
Don’t Call Me Fashion Blogger
Facebook
Bloglovin’
Author
I have not heard of it! I will look it up! xx
Author
Same here Allie. We tend to do wine and cheese evening at home at least once a month! xx
Author
Thank you Ivana xx
Author
Thank you Lovely xx
Author
It’s delicious! Definitely worth a try xx
This wine must be so good and you look wonderful!
I like how this wine sounds! You look fab!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
This wine sounds amazing. If I drank alcohol, I would try it.
You look fab in that dress!
Ooo this sounds so good, I love a glass of wine with cheese and bread and with all food really. And LOVING those shoes, theyare gorgeous!! You look great! : )
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
This wine looks amazing! My fave wine is Whispering Angel Rose’. So perfect for summer!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Author
Thank you Lisa xx
Author
Thank you Alexandra xx
I admire your looks, keep it up to inspire me dear!
Love,
Alexandra | Earthy Tones Sweater Style
This sounds delish! And you look gorgeous!
Lisa | lisaautumn.com
This wine sounds delicious!!
Jennifer
Curated By Jennifer