Estate
OUR STORY
Dating back to 1685 and described as one of the world’s most beautiful wine estates, Klein Constantia is set amidst ancient trees on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg, with views across False Bay.
-
1685- A Vision Begins
Simon van der Stel, Governor of the Cape, establishes Constantia after surveying the soils of the Cape Peninsula. With decomposed granite slopes and a cool maritime climate, the site becomes the most celebrated wine terroir at the Cape.
-
1712 - THE FOUNDERS
Upon van der Stel’s death, Constantia is divided. One parcel becomes Klein Constantia, a name that will echo through centuries of winemaking history.
-
1800‑1900 Golden ages & Vin de Constance era
The wines of Constantia enchant emperors and poets alike, enjoyed by Napoleon, praised by Jane Austen, and revered in royal courts. Vin de Constance becomes one of the most sought-after wines in the world.
-
1900 - Vin de Constance era
After years of quiet, Klein Constantia revives the legendary Vin de Constance. The wine is once again met with acclaim and fascination.
-
1980 - The Jooste Revival
Duggie Jooste acquires Klein Constantia and sparks a renaissance, with winemaker Ross Gower, architect Gawie Fagan, and Professor Chris Orffer. The first modern vintage is released in 1986, immediately setting a new benchmark for South African wine. The wines shine again. From Sauvignon Blanc to Cabernet-based blends, Klein Constantia regains its place among the great wine estates of the world.
-
1997‑2020 Modern revival period
Accolades follow. Vin de Constance is named one of the world’s nine most mythical wines and wins repeated top honours, including Best Sweet Wine at Decanter and 98-point scores from Tim Atkin. Today. Club 322 celebrates this legacy, a curated world of storytelling, rarity, and direct access, named after the original 322 barrels, once registered on the estate.
-
2011- A New Chapter
Klein Constantia enters a bold new era. In May 2011, the estate is acquired by Zdenek Bakala and Charles Harman, visionary businessmen united by a passion for fine wine and the Constantia Valley. A year later, celebrated Bordeaux figures Hubert de Boüard (Château Angélus) and Bruno Prats (formerly of Château Cos d’Estournel) merge their Stellenbosch property, Anwilka, with Klein Constantia, bringing world-class expertise and an international perspective.
-
2025 - Onwards
Under their stewardship, the estate embraces a philosophy of precision, sustainability, and quiet confidence. Winemaker Matthew Day, only the third since the estate’s revival, crafts wines that balance elegance with longevity, while viticulturist Craig Harris tends 146 hectares with respect for biodiversity and terroir. Today, guided by a board deeply committed to excellence, Klein Constantia stands among the Cape’s most celebrated fine wine estates, a place where heritage and innovation meet, and where the legacy of Vin de Constance continues to inspire the world.
Origins
ORIGINS
In 1685, Simon van der Stel, Governor of the Cape, chose the slopes of Constantiaberg for his vision of winemaking excellence. With decomposed granite soils and a cool maritime breeze, the land revealed its potential early — becoming the Cape’s most celebrated vineyard. After van der Stel’s passing in 1712, Constantia was divided. One parcel became Klein Constantia — a name destined to echo through centuries of history.
Vin De Constance
THE ICONIC
From the 18th to 19th century, the wines of Constantia captivated the world, cherished by Napoleon, celebrated by Jane Austen, and served in royal courts across Europe.
Revived in 1990, Vin de Constance once again took its place among the world’s most revered wines. Today, Club 322 honours this enduring legacy, a private circle celebrating rarity, craftsmanship, and connection, named after the 322 barrels once registered on the estate.
The Rennaissance
TRADITION
In 1980, Duggie Jooste breathed new life into Klein Constantia. Together with winemaker Ross Gower, architect Gawie Fagan, and Professor Chris Orffer, he restored the estate to its former glory.
The first modern vintage in 1986 marked a renaissance, a new standard of South African excellence, and a renewed global recognition for Klein Constantia wines.
A New Chapter
NEW CHAPTER
Since 2011, Klein Constantia has entered a new era under the stewardship of Zdenek Bakala and Charles Harman, joined by Bordeaux legends Hubert de Boüard and Bruno Prats. Together, they have brought international expertise and a renewed commitment to excellence.
Today, winemaker Matthew Day and viticulturist Craig Harris guide the estate with precision and respect for the land. Klein Constantia stands as one of the Cape’s most celebrated fine wine estates, where heritage and innovation continue to meet, and the story of Vin de Constance inspires the world anew.