The oldest of the five wineries in the Constantia wine growing area at the southern tip of the South African Cape region. It was founded in 1682, even before Governor Simon van der Stel (1639-1712) built his manor house there three years later and began experimenting with viticulture. At that time the farm was called "Swaaneweide". It is situated only 20 minutes by car from Cape Town with a view to False Bay. The owner is Johnnies Industrial Corporation (Johnic). In 1990 a complete renovation of the vineyards, the manor house built in 1740 (since 1969 a national monument) and the cellar with today 1.200 barrique barrels took place. In addition, a 5-star luxury hotel and a restaurant were built in the old cellar, and an 18-hole golf course was created.
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Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien