Constantia Royale / Nova Zonnestraal Estate

Winery Description

Location and History

‘Constantia Royale’ is a limited production Sauvignon Blanc wine made from grapes grown on the 17 hectare, family-owned farm of Nova Zonnestraal in the beautiful Constantia Valley. Located just over 20 minutes drive from the centre of Cape Town, the farm dates back to the 1700’s when it formed part of Alphen Estate. Today we concentrate on the growing of grapes and olives, alongside our top equestrian yard.

Originally the farm grew Hanepoort table grapes, but in 2002 a decision was taken to plant wine grapes. Initially Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc were planted, however the wine made from the Sauvignon Blanc grapes soon sold out – and so it was decided to focus our energies and endeavours solely on producing this wine. The farm is also home to approximately 1000 olive trees, which fringe our vineyards. While production is modest, both table olives and a fine blend of Extra Virgin Oil are produced, with our olives being pressed by Chaloner in Stellenbosch.

Nova Zonnestraal has a history of producing winners. Our two equestrian yards in Cape Town and Johannesburg have met with success, both in South Africa and abroad. It is our hope that our 7 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc flanked by olive groves and paddocks, may also prove itself a winner in the making.

In-person tasting opportunities are carefully limited and they welcome visitors by appointment only.

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Wine Tasting

It is said that Sauvignon Blanc vines should be able to see the ocean. With this in mind, our vineyards were planted with a good view of Cape Hangklip from the western slope and False Bay from the eastern. With the intention of producing a unique Sauvignon Blanc, winemaker Roger Burton was appointed to oversee the vineyards and to make the wines.

Constantia Royale is our limited production Sauvignon Blanc. Crisp with a refreshing minerality, gently softened by light fruity flavours, we add 15% Semillon to produce a lively and full bodied Sauvignon Blanc. We also produce “Don’s Reserve”, a superior 100% Sauvignon Blanc blend picked from our top portion of grapes. Meticulously paired with the right French oak barrels, this wine shows pure Sauvignon Blanc elegance, while maintaining maximum drinking pleasure.

Wine tastings are offered in our unusual location: a tunnel under the M3 freeway! Once inside, there is no noise and there are beautiful views of the Constantiaberg from the tunnel entrance, with the vines right in front. Tastings are best enjoyed in the warmer summer months.