Constantia Valley Golden Oldies tasting was presented by Karl Lambour, winemaker at Constantia Glen since November 2006 and producer of  a top notch Sauvignon Blanc with a Bordeaux style blend waiting in the wings.  Dominique Hebrard of Chateaux Cheval Blanc is the winery advisor.

Constantia Valley white wines have fantastic ageing potential and  Karl mentioned as an example, a Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc being rated 5 stars in Wine Magazine 18 years after release!

The wines tasted are listed below with brief notes gathered from the comments of the wine aficionados at our table.

Steenberg Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 1996

Not a reserve wine, it presents an aromatic, floral, fragrant bouquet. On the palate there is a crisp acidity and a finish that goes on forever.

Constantia Uitsig Semillon Reserve 2003

Two different bottles were poured at our table, one screwcap and the other closed with cork. An interesting comparison revealed that the wine with a cork had aged prematurely but the wine in the screwcap bottle kept a clean freshness. The nose was forthcoming with woody cigar box notes.

Constantia Uitsig Blend 2003 – Semillon/Sauvignon

A typical Bordeaux style blend but with less oak treatment. The nose is fairly shy. A balanced wine with good aftertaste, very drinkable and a favourite at our table.

Klein Constantia Rhine Riesling 1994

This king of white grapes presented with concentrated diesel notes at first, typical of Rhine Riesling grown in a warmer environment. On the palate it is smooth, sweetish becoming dryer but retaining its fruitiness. It can easily go on for another six years.

Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 1992

A magnificent descendant of “Constantia” which was revered by dignitaries and aristocracy in the 18th century. Beautifully balanced and complex it is able to last a hundred years under the right conditions …… but then who wants to keep it?

Steenberg Nebbiolo 1999

The wine has a pale pinot noir like appearance with lovely cherry notes. It bursts onto the palate but with tannins which are subtle and silky and linger for ages.

Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve 2001

This is big, spicy, food wine produced from 18 – 20 year old vines. Its beautifully integrated with soft tannins and a old aftertaste.

Steenberg Vineyards Catharina 2001

A favourite amongst the red wines tasted. It is fresh and smooth showing the Steenberg eucalyptus characteristic.

Karl’s harvest 2009 prediction is that because there was very little rain during harvest, we can expect outstanding whites and reds which are beyond reproach. This vintage is producing wines to buy and keep.