Wine
The Winelands of the Western Cape in South Africa are a huge draw for national and international visitors alike,
for the wine tasting certainly, but also for the spectacular beauty, rich history and gastronomic excellence.
Committed to providing our visitors with the latest news and insights, we are constantly visiting wine estates and trying
wines, to ensure we can share with you some of our favourites. Each month we feature a wine or wine estate that we love - it's a tough job but someone has to do it.
Our Favourite Wine of the month
April 2009: High Constantia Sebastiaan 2004
This month our Managing Director shares his latest find, an excellent Bordeaux blend hidden away in a small boutique winery in the Constantia Valley.
"First time visitors to the Constantia wine route, just south of Cape Town are invariably drawn to the more recognised wine estates like Groot Constantia, Buitenwerwachting and Steenberg.
However there is now a new kid on the block that is definitely mixing it with the big boys. Actually situated next to the entrance to Groot Constantia, the High Constantia winery is tiny by comparison, but really authentic with stunning wine and a warm welcome.
I popped in just on the off chance and was given a personal tasting in the winery itself by the owner and his friendly staff. Amongst a range of excellent wines, the 2004 Sebastiaan was definitely the highlight for me, a stunning Bordeaux blend that at 197.00 Rand a bottle is not cheap by local standards, but I highly recommend it for something special.
I was also blown away by their Clos Andre 2007, by far the best South African bubbly I have tasted in my time here.
If you find yourself in the Constantia Valley, then this winery needs to be at the top of your list, if you are looking for something authentic and a bit different.