As South Africa’s wine industry continues to gain international recognition, one estate stands as the grandfather of them all. Groot Constantia, the country’s oldest wine estate, prepares to celebrate an extraordinary milestone on 13 July 2025 – its 340th anniversary. This remarkable achievement positions the estate not just as a survivor, but as a living testament to the enduring legacy of South African winemaking.
A foundation built on vision
The story begins in 1685 when Simon van der Stel established what would become the cornerstone of the Constantia Valley’s wine heritage. From these humble beginnings, Groot Constantia has weathered centuries of change, political upheaval, natural disasters, and industry transformation whilst maintaining its position as a beacon of quality and tradition.
The estate’s significance extends far beyond its age. In 1713, former sea captain and VOC vice-admiral Harmens de Marre penned a poem celebrating the estate’s beauty, inadvertently inspiring the creation of the Grand Constance; a sweet wine that would capture the hearts of European royalty during the Napoleonic era. This legendary dessert wine became synonymous with luxury and prestige, earning international acclaim at prestigious exhibitions including gold medals at the 1878 Exposition Universelle in Paris and accolades at the 1881 Melbourne International Exhibition.
Resilience through adversity
Groot Constantia’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. The devastating Phylloxera outbreak of the late 19th century nearly destroyed the wine industry across the Cape, yet the estate’s legendary resilience saw it through this dark period. Perhaps even more dramatically, in 1925, fire consumed the historic Manor House. However, true to form, restoration began immediately, and by 1927, the rebuilt Manor House opened its doors as a museum, preserving the estate’s rich heritage for future generations.
The recognition of this heritage culminated in 1984 when both the homestead and the entire Groot Constantia estate were declared a National Monument, cementing its place in South African cultural history.
A living museum
Today, visitors to Groot Constantia can experience this remarkable history through the estate’s comprehensive Visitors Route. This self-guided journey provides access to the Manor House Museum and the historic Cloete Cellar, where the famous Grand Constance continues to be produced.
Complimentary audio walking tours guide guests through the vineyards, manor house, and modern production facilities, offering insights into both historical winemaking traditions and contemporary techniques.
The educational cellar tour reveals the intricacies of modern vinification processes, whilst wine tastings allow visitors to sample five wines of their choice, each reflecting the unique terroir and winemaking expertise that has been refined over more than three centuries.
Modern conservation leadership
Groot Constantia’s commitment extends beyond winemaking excellence to environmental stewardship. The estate’s recognition by the World Wildlife Fund as a Conservation Champion reflects its dedication to sustainable practices. Partnership with the Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association demonstrates how historical estates can lead by example in responsible agriculture.
The 1993 Groot Constantia Act established the estate as a not-for-profit company, ensuring that its primary mission remains the preservation and promotion of South African wine culture rather than pure commercial gain.
A toast to the future
As Groot Constantia approaches its 340th anniversary, the celebration represents more than just longevity; it embodies the spirit of South African winemaking. From its granite-rich soils that have nurtured vines for centuries to its role in establishing the international reputation of Cape wines, Groot Constantia continues to be a bridge between South Africa’s viticultural past and its promising future.
For wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in South African heritage, a visit to Groot Constantia offers the rare opportunity to walk through living history. Every bottle tells a story of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of excellence that has defined this remarkable estate for 340 years.
The estate invites wine lovers worldwide to join the anniversary celebration with #GrootConstantia340, ensuring that this milestone becomes not just a moment of reflection, but a foundation for the next chapter in South Africa’s wine story.
Visit www.grootconstantia.co.za for more information about tours, tastings, and special anniversary events.