2007 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance (500ml)

Vin de Constance from Klein Constantia has a history dating back over 300 years. In the 18th and 19th centuries “the sweet luscious and excellent wine of Constantia” was recognised as one of the great wines of the world, savoured by royalty and given pride of place in the cellars of the world’s greatest wine collectors. Although production ceased during the mid-to-late 1800s, it was revived in the 1980s during the redevelopment of Klein Constantia Estate. Early records were studied and careful selection made from vines which, in all likelihood, came from the original stock used in Constantia 300 years ago. Vin de Constance is a late-harvest style made from Muscat de Frontignan (aka Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains) grapes, without botrytis.

Other Reviews....
Although I have tasted the 2007 Vin de Constance on several occasions, this was the first time professionally. It has an explosive bouquet that sprints out of the blocks with a more effervescent, vivacious personality than the 2008. Citrus lemon, Seville orange marmalade, touches of mandarin and a dash of spice all vie for attention. The aromatics are more Sauternes-like than the 2008. The palate is very well-balanced with a viscous opening, a keen thread of acidity and a bewitching sense of poise and focus. This is probably the finest Vin de Constance to date as it fans out marvellously on the multi-layered finish. This is a startling, world-class wine that gives Yquem a run for its money.
97 points
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate (Oct 2013)

Although released by the new management team, the final blend was put together by the previous owner. This rich, nutty, unctuous sweet wine has less pronounced floral notes with more umami and mushroom character. It feels like a Vin de Constance from a different era. 2007 was an excellent year with a cool growing season and a dry, warm, late summer, leading to residual sugar of 177g/l. With the acidity standing out a bit less than in the 2008, this fine wine is drinking beautifully now.
96 points
Andy Howard MW - Decanter