Tasting Notes
Colour
Golden yellow in the glass
Nose
One is quite surprised by the floral perfume and hints of white peach, apricot and tangerine that seduce the senses with their delicacy.
Palate
On the palate, an unusual equilibrium between waxy weight and a gobsmacking acidity is neatly held together by our small site’s signature hint of salinity.
Winery
Some two decades ago, raging wildfires swept through an area of forest high up on Constantia Nek, leaving the slopes scorched and bare. When the fire had subsided, what was left was a brilliant and unique spot for planting a vineyard; 350 metres above sea level, with cooling ocean breezes and steep sun-bathed hills and so, like a phoenix, Beau Constantia rose from the ashes.
Sensing opportunity, Pierre and Cecily Du Preez acquired the 22-hectare property in 2002. With thorough soil analysis guiding their efforts, the inaugural vineyards were planted in 2003 under the careful guidance of farm manager, Japie Bronn.
The journey to establish vineyards on these challenging slopes demanded patience and unwavering commitment. Today, Beau Constantia proudly boasts 11.47 hectares under vine, a testament to the perseverance and dedication of all involved. Within these vineyards thrive a diverse range of varietals, including Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz, and Petit Verdot, each meticulously nurtured to capture the unique essence of this extraordinary landscape.
This boutique wine farm with just over 11 hectares under vine has utterly spectacular views over the peninsula. Megan van der Merwe is the Head Winemaker, having taken over from Justin Van Wyk in 2021, after serving as Assistant Winemaker during his successful tenure. Megan believes in 'farming to perfection - just don't stuff it up in the cellar!'. This very talented winemaker is certainly one to watch.
Each of their releases is a tribute to a member of the family.
Awards & Accolades
- 92pts | IWSC 2022 (2021 Vintage)
"White flowers and peach lead to a voluptuous palate where apricot rises. Such purity of fruit shows great typicity. Absolutely loving the lingering freshness here."
- Tim Atkin | 91 pts (2021 Vintage)
“Cecily has gained in subtlety and finesse under winemaker Megan van der Merwe, with less cream and more freshness on the palate. Fermented in old barrels and for 21% of the blend, a concrete egg, this is leesy and refined, with aniseed and honeysuckle notes, a hint of clementine and a fresh finish.”
Di's Personal Tasting Note
"A fabulously, well balanced, graceful & elegant white. Initial fruits of peach & apricot balanced by fresh lemon/lime citric acidity. With a lovely creamy mouth feel from extended lees contact. Drinking beautifully in its youth but has the complexity & balance to mature for a good few years yet. I would definitely say that this will be one of our top whites from South Africa. Can close my eyes whilst drinking & visualise the wonderful view from Beau Constantia." April 2024
Specifications
| Year | 2022 |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Cultivar | Viognier |
| Country | South Africa |
| Alcohol content | 13.5% |
| Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.4 units per bottle |
| Type | White Wine |
| Cellaring Potential | Delicious now, with huge potential to age. |
| Food Matching | Try it with fragrant Thai curry or roasted poultry. |
| Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
| Origin | Constantia |
| Appellation | WO Western Cape |
