| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | South Africa |
| Colour | Sweet White |
| Type | Still |
We finish with the 2014 Vin de Constance from Klein Constantia, which shows identically to the bottle tasted in the Cape earlier this year. The bouquet bursts from the glass with marmalade, honeysuckle, orange rind and tropical fruit, all beautifully defined, if perhaps just a little waxier than I recall. The lively, viscous palate presents layers of fresh apricot, honey and orange zest, leading to a precise, vibrant finish. I love the chutzpah of this Vin de Constance, and though it will age, I do not begrudge anyone drinking it now.
Very ripe and heady nose of apricots and peach jam, straw, dried honeysuckle, caramel, mango puree and candied papaya. Somehow, it all remains fresh. Full and round on the palate. Medium-sweet to sweet with medium acidity. A dense, oily finish. One of the great sweet wines of South Africa. Drink now or hold.
This is not the densest or most exotic of recent Vin de Constance releases, but what it lacks in power it more than makes up for with elegance. More Barsac than Sauternes-like perhaps? Quince, pastry and orange zest notes, with lovely tarte tatin acidity, subtle vanilla spice and a long, nuanced finish. 2019-35.
*Included in Tim Atkin's South African wines of the year*
