Where Cape Wine Began
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In 1685, Governor Simon van der Stel was granted land in this valley, on the slopes of the Constantiaberg. The estate that grew from it, Groot Constantia, is the oldest wine estate in South Africa.
The valley was later divided up. In the late 1700s, Hendrik Cloete, who owned Groot Constantia, perfected a sweet wine that became famous across Europe.
1685
Van der Stel receives the land that becomes Groot Constantia.
Sweet wine
Constantia's dessert wines were prized in Europe's finest houses.
Cape Dutch heritage
The manor houses and cellars are still standing.
🇿🇦 Cape spotlight
Groot Constantia is open to visitors, with a museum in the manor house, a cellar, and tasting rooms that you can walk into.
🧠 Quick check: tap to reveal
🤔 When was Constantia first granted?
In 1685.
🤔 Which Constantia wine style became famous in Europe?
Sweet wine.
Lesson 2: Constantia fun facts