Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest. In 1685, Cape Governor Simon van der Stel built a farm in the foothills of Table Mountain, which he named Constantia. Groot Constantia received world acclaim from Napoleon, Bismarck and King Louis Philippe of France who was the biggest single buyer of Groot Constantia wines. Today, the estate is run by the Groot Constantia Trust and covers 165 hectares, of which 87 hectares are planted at an altitude of 60 to 280 metres above sea level. The vineyards are cultivated sustainably, and they hold the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) certification. The climate is generally cool resulting in complex and balanced wines.
The Lady of Abundance is a blend of 26% Pinotage, 24% Merlot, 18% Shiraz, 9% Cabernet franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Grenache, 5% Tannat, 3% Petit Verdot.
The grapes were handpicked and fermented in stainless steel with regular pump overs during fermentation. The different components were aged separately for 12 months in 10% new, 35% 2nd fill,35% 3rd fill, and 20% 4th fill French oak barrels before blending and bottling.
The Groot Constantia, Lady of Abundance is a medium bodied wine with flavours of blackcurrant, plums, cherries and pomegranate, with hints of chocolate and spice on the nose. The berry fruits follow through on the palate, with a lingering spicy aftertaste. The tannins are well rounded and soft on the palate, yet still firm enough to give a long-lasting mouth feel.
