The history of winemaking has most definitely left its mark within the history of Cape Town, a city located in the beautiful Western Province of South Africa. More than 350 years ago, vines were successfully planted in Cape Town (among its lush surrounding areas) and harvested into wine. Constantia Valley, one of Cape Town’s exclusive and leafy suburbs, was quickly identified as land with prime grape growing potential.

Constantia, the original farm in this area of South Africa, was owned (and named) by the governor of the Cape, Simon Van Der Stel. Over the years, this estate had been sub-divided and sold on to other parties. In the 21st century, however, most of the land had been returned to vineyards. As a result, Constantia became well known for the production of original, world-class wines.

Besides the Constantia Wine Route, wine connoisseurs are highly encouraged to visit the Cape Winelands, which include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Wellington.

Groot Constantia Wine Estate

The scenic Groot Constantia Wine Estate is the oldest wine estate in South Africa and the core of the original Constantia farm.  This wine estate dates back to 1685 and great care has been taken to restore the historical buildings to their former glory.

Klein Constantia

Sold off from the original farm in 1712, the magnificent Klein Constantia Wine Estate is home to indigenous forests and an eclectic combination of architectural styles.

High Constantia Wine Estate

First called Wittebonnen (White Trees), based off its abundance of Silverleaf trees, High Constantia has also had great success as a wine producing farm since the 1800’s.

Constantia Uitsig

Constantia Uitsig is well known for its country style boutique hotel, wine shop, spas and restaurants. Breathtakingly beautiful, the Constantis Uitsig Wine Estate is a great base from which to explore the wine route and attractions of Cape Town.

Buitenverwachting Wine Estate

Home to an award-winning restaurant, Buitenverwachting’s scenic beauty is also a popular wedding and event venue. Buitenverwachting, which means ‘ beyond exceptional’, used to be part of the original farm and now produces award winning wines which are known all over the world.

Steenberg Hotel, Golf & Wine Estate

The scenic and beautiful Steenberg Hotel, Golf & Wine Estate has been declared a historically significant spot because of their beautiful yet antiquated buildings.  Steenberg is also the only farm in the area that was originally granted to a woman. Catherina, also known as the widow Ras, asked Simon Van Der Stel to be granted deeds for a piece of land at the foot of the Silvermine Mountain.  Today, this estate is home to exclusive private homes, a five star Hotel, a championship golf course and an award winning wine estate.