Beau Constantia Wine Farm
Beau Constantia
One of the youngest farms on the Constantia Wine Route, this farm has 11 hectares under vine (80% black and 20% white grapes). Situated adjacent and slightly above Constantia Glen, the views are spectacular - masterfully blending into the natural flora of the mountain. Two outdoor tasting areas (an area with 2 to 3 tables, and a larger area with 10 tables) and the contemporary glass-encased indoor spaces on the top level ensure that you’ll be sipping with a view. Note that the indoor space has very limited seating and can get noisy (because of the glass walls). An additional lapa area with comfortable sofas is available in summer - though the views aren’t great. If the lawn is dry, moving to this sloped terraced area gives 180º views.
Treat yourself to the award-winning tapas menu at Chef’s Warehouse, open for lunch (Tuesday to Saturday from 12h00 to 14h00) and dinner (Tuesday to Saturday from 18h00 to 20h00). They are closed on Mondays, Sundays, and major public holidays including New Years Eve.
The Vineyards:
This used to be a goat farm before a fire in 2000 left nothing but alien vegetation. Since then, their mission has been to restore the site to its original state - clearing alien vegetation, establishing a firebreak and analysing the soil composition. The first vines were planted in 2003 with the help of dedicated farm manager, Japie Bronn. Around 12 hectares are under vine (20% white and 80% black grape varieties that include Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz and Petit Verdot). The vines are planted at 350 metres above sea level, and are cooled by the prevailing winds and breezes from the Atlantic Ocean.
The Wine Tasting:
Prices may have changed, but last time I visited with guests:
Wines are subject to availability / They are closed on major public holidays / Wines can also be ordered by the glass or bottle and cheese and/or meat platters are offered.
Read my review of their Stella Syrah 2017
The Restaurant:
Chefs Warehouse is an absolute treat. They've proved their tapas menu at their original Bree Street restaurant, followed by this Constantia venue, as well as at Maison Franschhoek and Tintswalo Atlantic on Chapman's Peak in Hout Bay. The food is every evolving and a treat for any foodie! Chefs Warehouse Constantia operates separately to Chefs Warehouse so book independently.
Top Tips and Hot Take
Top Tips: Even if nature doesn’t call, the ‘loo with a view’ is worth checking out.
They tend to close before the sun sets but have, in the past, stayed open until 19h30 on the last Saturday of the month.
Something to note is that space is limited - an outside booking might not be able to be accommodated indoors if the weather changes!
Parking is limited so using a ride service is recommended.
Hot Take: The sparkling wine is lovely, the white wines are tasty, but the reds show prominent new oak…if new oak isn’t your vibe, stick to the sparkling, rosé and white wines.
Contact Details
Location: 1043 Constantia Main Road, Constantia
Hours: Tuesday -Thursday: 11h00 – 18h00 | Friday-Sunday: 11h00 - 19h00 (last tastings starts at 16:30) | Closed on major holidays
Contact: 021 794 7171 / reservations@beauconstantia.com
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