A wine farm should be four things: beautiful, gorgeous, pretty and stunning. Constantia Glen is all of those, and I can add a few more descriptions. But you get the picture.

Of course, the wine is the real attraction (for me, anyway) but the views help. A lot. If I wasn’t looking for a view, I would buy a bottle and drink it at home.

This wine farm in the heart of the Constantia Wine Valley on the upper reaches of the Constantiaberg makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the famous Napa Valley in California. Vineyards as far as the eye can see and beyond that, the mountain.

I’m almost too distracted by the scenery to pay attention to the wine. Almost. That first sip told me everything I needed to know and it’s a resounding “yes!” from me, I’ll be coming back again.  The Constantia Glen Five (2018) blend is rich, full-bodied and just spicy enough for the increasingly chilly autumn days.

Credit: Anita Froneman

But wait, there’s more. The food must not be overlooked. Indulging in warm, flavourful dishes is just what you need on gloomy winter days.

Visitors can indulge in Constantia Glen’s famous traditional Austrian beef goulash served with Spätzle, French onion soup with croûte au fromage, and delicious roasted cauliflower soup served with crispy, freshly baked bread. The soups are available at R95 and the Austrian beef goulash at R130 per person, or R110 for the trio. Each of these winter warmers can be partnered perfectly with Constantia Glen’s elegant wines.

Constantia Glen’s winter menu also surprises with slow-cooked lamb shank served with mashed potatoes, wild mushrooms, vegetables and red wine jus available at R250 per person. Enjoy these hearty dishes next to a roaring fire in the cosy glass house surrounded by the stunning winter vineyard views or in the warm winter sun in the outdoor cobblestone or fountain seating areas. Add a smooth, elegant bottle of Constantia Glen red wine and an additional mouth-watering platter of artisanal cheese and charcuterie to really make the most of your experience at Constantia Glen.

Credit: Anita Froneman

If anyone ever wonders where to find me, I’ll probably be here. Soaking up the views (and the wine), hiding out from the real world. My advice? Forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t rush this experience. Linger a little longer.

Credit: Anita Froneman

Pictures: Constantia Glen

 

 

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