OVERVIEW
Winter was colder than the previous season, with much higher rainfall, which replenished water resources and led to sufficient cold accumulation to break dormancy. The cold and wet weather continued into spring, which contributed to homogenous, but delayed bud-break and initial growth. Flowering and set were mostly efficient and even, while shoot and leaf growth picked up the pace by the start of November. Temperatures remained moderate during the summer, which slowed down ripening and resulted in lower day and night temperatures throughout the season.

THE VINEYARD
Decomposed granite and Table Mountain sandstone are the dominant soil types on Le Marais. This coupled with the effect of the only Clos vineyard in Constantia, results in an improved mesoclimate that directly affects the hangtime of the grapes before they are picked. Several passes are done during harvest time selecting the bunches that are optimally ripe.

FERMENTATION
Grapes are destemmed and crushed into 600L French oak barrel for fermentation. Regular rolling of the barrel take place during the peak of fermentation to ensure extraction of flavours and sugars within the raisins. After about 6-10 days the wine is racked, and the skins pressed in a basket press. Part of the wine is fermented in glass demijohn and part in new French oak barrel. Once fermentation has stopped naturally due to the high sugar content the wine is racked and returned of gross lease.

MATURATION & BOTTLING
The natural sweet wine matures for 24 months before the blending of the wine commences. A light clarification and filtration before bottling is done.

TASTING NOTES
This wine shows upfront notes of citrus blossom and orange zest with layers of toffee aromas and delicate floral perfume. On the palate it shows an intriguing freshness from the acidity followed by lemon curd, oak spice and candied ginger. The wine has remarkable complexity and length to it, that will prove valuable for extended cellaring.

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS
Alcohol 11.9%, RS 165g/L, TA 6.3g/l, pH 3.89

CULTIVAR                            
Muscat de Frontignan

WINE OF ORIGIN         
Constantia

HARVEST DATE             
Late April 2021

OVERVIEW
The 2022 Constantia grape harvest was characterized by a cool vintage with a later start than usual, resulting in abundant fruit and opulence. Ripening conditions were optimal with very little disease pressure, so the grapes were able to fully ripen, and the long ripening season typically allows for more complex flavour development and excellent depth of flavour..

THE VINEYARD
Decomposed granite and Table Mountain sandstone are the dominant soil types on Le Marais. This coupled with the effect of the only clos vineyard in Constantia, results in an improved mesoclimate that directly affects the hangtime of the grapes before they are picked. Several passes are done during harvest time selecting the bunches that are optimally ripe.

FERMENTATION
Grapes are destemmed and crushed into 600L French oak barrel for fermentation. Regular rolling of the barrel take place during the peak of fermentation to ensure extraction of flavours and sugars within the raisins. After about 6-10 days the wine is racked, and the skins pressed in a basket press. Part of the wine is fermented in glass demijohn and part in new French oak barrel. Once fermentation has stopped naturally due to the high sugar content the wine is racked and returned of gross lease.

MATURATION & BOTTLING
The natural sweet wine matures for 24 months before the blending of the wine commences. A light clarification and filtration before bottling is done.

TASTING NOTES
This distinguished wine opens with an alluring bouquet of citrus blossom and vibrant orange zest, underpinned by a graceful veil of delicate floral perfume. Enticing aromas of toffee add warmth and depth, suggesting both richness and refinement. On the palate, a bright, well-integrated acidity imparts a vivid freshness that elegantly frames the unfolding flavors. Notes of lemon curd bring a creamy citrus complexity, while subtle oak spice and a whisper of candied ginger add nuance and structure. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing the wine’s impressive complexity and finesse. With its intricate layering and poised balance, this wine not only captivates in its youth but also promises exceptional evolution with extended cellaring

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS
Alcohol 13.3%, RS 159g/L, TA 6.2g/l, pH 3.9

CULTIVAR                            
Muscat de Frontignan

WINE OF ORIGIN         
Constantia

HARVEST DATE             
Mid April 2021