Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve

Producer Note & Vineyard

The heritage of Groot Constantia would be incomplete without regarding its setting. As important as the product of the grape is the beauty and significance of the architecture. The priceless Manor House and the buildings grouped around it are unequalled examples of Cape Dutch architecture both in majesty and simplicity. The collection of artefacts, including furniture and pieces of art, reflects the rich cultural tradition of the Cape. Today the estate is owned by the Groot Constantia Trust which is committed to building upon the foundations of this South Africa's oldest and best known estate. It is one of South Africa's most visited tourist attractions. The story of Groot Constantia goes back to 1685 when Simon van der Stel, later governor of the Cape, was granted land for a farm on the Eastern side of Table Mountain which he named Constantia. After several changes of ownership, it was sold to the Cloete family in 1778 and held by them for 5 generations until 1885. They were forced to sell owing to the vine disease phylloxera that ravaged the vineyards and it then became the property of the Cape government. The total estate covers 165 hectares of which 87 hectares are currently planted, at a height of 60-280 metres above sea level. The type of climate is generally cool resulting in complex and balanced wines. Their winemaker, Boela Gerber, was recently awarded the Trophy for ‘Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year'.

Winemaking

The selected grapes were harvested once they had reached the desired maturity levels and were picked at 24 to 25° Balling. The grapes were treated delicately in the cellar and during the first half of fermentation, the wine was pumped over every four hours, in order to oxygenate the wine. It was matured for 13 months in 225 litre French oak barrels, of which 76% were new, with the balance being aged in older barriques.

Tasting Note

Ripe, rich flavours of black cherries, plums, blackcurrant and hints of chocolate and cigar box follow through on the palate, in an elegant and restrained style. Smooth, with structured tannins and a refined and lingering finish. A lovely Bordeaux blend from this historic estate in South Africa.

Serving Suggestion

The perfect accompaniment to a roast leg of Springbok studded with bacon or a juicy, rare roasted beef with a chunky Yorkshire pudding.

Grape

Merlot 44%, Cabernet Franc 32%, Cabernet Sauvignon 21%, Petit Verdot 3%