Muscat
50cl * 14.0% ABV * Constantia, South Africa
One of the great sweet wines of the world, Vin de Constance has a 300-year-old history and has been enjoyed by the likes of Austen, Baudelaire and Dickens. Unlike some of the other finest sweet wines, this is not affected by botrytis, but is a naturally sweet wine made from the Muscat de Frontignan, aged in Hungarian and French oak barrels for 28 months prior to bottling,
The excellent 2012 vintage is golden and bright in the glass, and offers enticing aromas of marmalade and nutmeg on the nose. The palate is fresh, creamy and luxurious, with a rich sweetness that is complemented by a fresh and balancing acidity. It is capable of ageing for many decades, if not generations.
"Floral, pure and focused, with notes of orange zest, tarte tatin and well integrated oak. Shaping up to be the best Vin de Constance yet" 97/100 Points, Tim Atkin MW
"Perhaps a little more floral than the 2011 with mirabelle and a touch of petrol infusing the honey and marmalade aromas. The palate is unctuous on the entry, nicely balanced as the acidity slices through the rich honeyed fruit that lingers long in the mouth, a touch of orange zest and nectarine towards the finish. I have a preference for this Vin de Constance over the 2011 - a superb dessert wine from Matthew Day." 94/100 Points, Neal Martin MW for Wine Advocate
The perfect pairing for crème brulee, tarte tatin or rich fruit-based desserts.