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Groot Constantia Estate is the oldest wine estate in South Africa, and it is here that the country’s thriving wine industry has its roots. Since its origin in 1685, Groot Constantia has always been a wine farm and its name is forever linked to the most famous wines that were so highly prized by the European gentry in the 18th century.
Today Groot Constantia welcomes its visitors with the tranquility and beauty that charmed Simon van der Stel all those years ago.
The Manor House, with its elegant gables, is a magnificent example of Cape Dutch architecture. Today it houses a cultural history museum, portraying the early years of Groot Constantia.
The Cloete Cellar, the original wine cellar, dates back to 1791 and houses a Wine Museum, exhibiting various wine making equipment and especially wine storage and wine drinking vessels. The beautiful pediment gable above the cellar is one of sculptor Anton Anreith’s masterpieces.
Groot Constantia produces a range of excellent wines, and has over the years won numerous awards for both reds and whites. The wines may be tasted and bought at the tasting cellar, locally known as Bertram’s Cellar, at the entrance of the Estate. There is also a souvenir and gift shop. In the production and maturation Cellar, tours and tastings take place daily.
Visitors are offered a choice of excellent dining on the Estate. The Tavern Restaurant, built in the original bottling and maturation cellar, offers a variety of continental dishes and caters for larger functions. The graceful Jonkershuis Restaurant in the historic core of the Estate serves Cape Malay, classical and contemporary cuisine. What could be more satisfying than a delicious meal and a glass of excellent wine, surrounded by atmosphere and architecture, vineyards and breathtaking views?
The Estate also offers stunning walks to various viewpoints. Visitors can order picnic baskets from the Restaurants and let their senses take them to a beautiful place in the peace and tranquility of the Constantia surroundings.
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