Background

Constantia Uitsig is one of six wine producers nestled in the heart of the historical Constantia Valley, one of the oldest remaining appellations in the world. Given its proximity to the city, and easy accessibility, Constantia Valley is truly Cape Town’s own vineyard. The breathtaking beauty of a valley where vineyard rows stretch up the mountainside – within minutes of a capital city – is unique in today’s overcrowded world. It offers a terroir as close to perfect as one could wish for: high mountain slopes, excellent soils, cooling sea breezes from False Bay in the East and the Atlantic Ocean in the west, ample summer rainfalls and moderate temperatures.

David and Marlene McCay owned Constantia Uitsig since 1988, when they took ownership of a rundown piece of land. Replanting of the vineyards started in 1990, and the farm has since been restored to its former glory. In 2005 50% of the property was sold to a consortium led by Tokyo Sexwale.

Thirty-two hectares are planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with a production of 200 tons and 14 000 cases per year. This spread of cultivars allows for a range of crafted wines that capture the complexity and elegance characteristic of the valley’s terroir and gentle maritime climate. Emphasis is on quality rather than quantity, with a philosophy that wine is made in the vineyard, with minimum interference with nature.

The complexity in the Constantia Uitsig wines is perfectly matched with the global cuisine offered at the three fine dining restaurants hosted on Constantia Uitsig: La Colombe, Constantia Uitsig Restaurant and the River Cafe.

Constantia Uitsig produces Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Red and White Bordeaux blends- all noble cultivars ideally suited to the climate in the valley. With 30 hectares under vine, Constantia Uitsig produces 17 000 cases of superior wine a year.

All The Constantia Uitsig Wines received 4 stars and more in the John Platter Wine Guide 2005

“Andre can be so proud of his wines – what a great thing it is to produce a range of wines like yours and for it to be so difficult to decide which one likes best.” Michael Olivier

"We went home, opened a bottle of Constantia Uitsig Wine and were flooded with memories of languid days in glorious sunshine. It was exquisite." Ben and Emma Norcott

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