Where It All Began: Constantia & Durbanville
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Constantia is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing area. In 1685, Governor Simon van der Stel was granted land here, and Groot Constantia, the country’s oldest wine estate, grew from it. Within a century, Constantia’s sweet wines were famous across Europe.
Royal admirers
Constantia’s sweet wine was served in European courts and shipped to Napoleon in exile on St Helena.
Cool breezes
Sea air from False Bay keeps the vineyards fresh, perfect for elegant Sauvignon Blanc.
Close to the city
Just 20 to 30 minutes’ drive from central Cape Town.
Durbanville: the city’s other wine valley
North of the city, Durbanville’s rolling hills catch cool Atlantic winds. The valley is known for vivid, zesty Sauvignon Blanc and relaxed family farms with views of Table Mountain.
🇿🇦 Cape spotlight
A modern revival of Constantia’s legendary sweet wine, Vin de Constance, is still made in the valley today.
🍷 Try this
Plan a half-day: one historic estate in Constantia, lunch, then one farm in Durbanville.
🧠 Quick check: tap to reveal
🤔 Which is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing area?
Constantia.
🤔 Which grape is Durbanville best known for?
Sauvignon Blanc.
Next up: Stellenbosch & Franschhoek