Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Constantia Glen, a boutique winery nestled in South Africa's historic Constantia Valley, is celebrated for producing exceptional cool-climate wines. The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies the estate's dedication to quality and terroir expression. The 2023 vintage commenced with the harvest on 14 February, two weeks earlier than the previous year, resulting in concentrated and intense flavours backed by lovely acidity and freshness. The cooler growing season facilitated slow and even ripening, enhancing the development of complex flavour precursors. The wine is predominantly Sauvignon Blanc, with a small addition of Sémillon (2%), and was crafted to showcase elegance, texture, and freshness.

Appearance: Pale straw with a slight green tinge, highlighting its freshness and youthful vibrancy. The wine is brilliantly clear, with a bright, almost luminous quality in the glass, reflecting its purity. Swirling reveals delicate, slow-moving legs, suggesting a refined texture and balanced weight. The light green reflections hint at the cool-climate influence, reinforcing the wine’s crisp, mineral-driven style.

Aroma: Intense and expressive, with layers of citrus zest, passionfruit, and green apple. Classic cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc notes of gooseberry, fresh-cut grass, and lime leaf emerge, complemented by subtle hints of elderflower and crushed stone minerality. A touch of blackcurrant leaf adds further aromatic intrigue

Taste: The palate is greeted with a rich, creamy texture that meets a well-defined minerality in perfect accord. Flavours of vibrant lime and grapefruit are complemented by notes of gooseberry and green tea, with flecks of jasmine adding an aromatic lift. The wine's bright citrus profile is balanced by a refreshing acidity, contributing to its impeccable balance and great length.

Finish: Exceptionally long and precise, with citrus zest, fresh herbs, and a lingering mineral salinity. The wine’s acidity remains bright and persistent, keeping the palate refreshed while allowing layers of gooseberry, grapefruit, and subtle flint to unfold gradually. As the finish evolves, a delicate hint of blackcurrant leaf and crushed oyster shell emerges, reinforcing its coastal influence. The interplay between fruit, acidity, and minerality leaves a crisp, mouthwatering impression, making it both elegant and highly expressive.

Food Pairing: This versatile Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements seafood such as oysters, grilled fish, and prawns, where its acidity balances the richness of the seafood. It also pairs beautifully with fresh salads, goat cheese, and dishes featuring green herbs or citrus-based sauces. For a delightful pairing, consider a Thai green curry with coconut milk and fresh green coriander, or a smoked snoek terrine on a piece of warm baguette with complimentary green hummus. Serving at 7-9°C enhances its refreshing character.

The Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is a testament to the estate's commitment to crafting wines that reflect their unique terroir, offering a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience.