Klein Constantia Estate Red Blend

A refined red blend from the warmer slopes of Klein Constantia 92 points Vinous

Country, Region: South Africa, Western Cape
Grape: Cab Sav, PV & Malbec
Vintage: 2019
ABV: 13.5%
Food friend: Red meat
£31.99 Single bottle
Qty:
Tasting Notes
Producer details
In the vineyard
In the winery
Food Recommendations
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The intention for the Estate Red Blend is to produce a wine that represents Klein Constantia's unique location. Over the years they have selected varietals that best suit their terroir, planting them on the lower and warmer slopes of the estate (64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot, 17% Malbec). The wine is deep ruby red in appearance, with rich dark red fruit dominating the nose followed by aromas of black cherries and wood spice. On the palate, finely grained tannins are subtly

Dating back to 1685 and described as one of the world's most beautiful wine estates, Klein Constantia is set amidst ancient trees on the upper foothills of Constantiaberg. In 1685 Constantia was established as a wine region in South Africa between False Bay and Hout Bay by the Governor of the Cape, Simon Van der Stel. The perfect location for cool climate wines, it was here that the first Muscat de Frontignan grapes in the Constantia Valley were planted, thus beginning the legacy of one of the world's most famous wines. Klein Constantia's Vin de Constance was prized by leaders and aristocracy throughout 18th Century Europe, and today is considered possibly the world's greatest natural dessert wine. A range of six elegant estate wines are also produced following identification of specific microclimates throughout the estate.

Situated between 70 metres and 343m above sea level, with a constant sea breeze above 150m, temperatures remain cool. With the ocean just 10km away, the wind plays an important factor, too, often stressing the vineyard and resulting in an increase in concentration and flavour in the fruit. The soils originate from 600 million-year old granite, which is well-drained, fertile decomposed granite with high clay content that ensures good water retention.

Each parcel is carefully identified and blocks are split into multiple portions in order to harvest at the perfect ripeness. The grapes are then bunch and berry sorted to ensure that only the healthiest berries are selected. Malo-lactic fermentation takes place in 40 % new French oak barrels after alcoholic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 15 months before blending and bottling.

The perfect partner for red meat and robust flavours.

"The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit. A fine-boned Bordeaux blend with a judicious splash of cracked black pepper toward the finish. Excellent." 92 points. Neal Martin, Vinous.

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