Klein Constantia, Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Product Information
Country South Africa
Region Constantia Valley
Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage 2023
ABV 13.9%
If you want to buy Klein Constantia Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023, you are choosing one of the estate’s most distinctive and limited Sauvignon Blancs. Made from a meticulous selection of the best barrels from six individual vineyards, Clara is designed to express the depth and mineral character of Klein Constantia’s granite soils while retaining the freshness and precision of Sauvignon Blanc.
The 2023 vintage is particularly compelling for lovers of richer, textured Sauvignon Blanc. Rather than relying purely on bright tropical fruit, Clara combines citrus, fig, lemongrass and thyme with integrated French oak, creamy texture, and a pronounced granite-derived salinity.
Klein Constantia Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023 Overview
Clara takes its name from Clara Eliza Hussey, the American heiress who purchased Klein Constantia in 1913. The wine is produced in very limited quantities, with only the best barrels selected for the final blend. For the 2023 vintage, fruit came from six individual vineyard blocks situated between approximately 260 and 300 metres above sea level.
This is an important distinction when comparing Klein Constantia Clara 2023 with other Sauvignon Blancs from the estate. The standard Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc is a broader estate blend, while Clara is a carefully curated selection intended to showcase texture, complexity, and the influence of the estate's granite terroir.
What Makes the 2023 Vintage Special?
The Klein Constantia Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023 was made using only free-run juice, with wild fermentation taking place in barrel. The wine then spent nine months in French oak, including 50% new French oak barrels. Only the best 10 barrels from the six selected vineyards were ultimately chosen for the blend.
The result is a Sauvignon Blanc with considerably more texture and depth than a simple unoaked, fruit-forward style. At 13.9% alcohol, 1.8g/l residual sugar and 6.7g/l total acidity, the 2023 bottling balances richness with lively freshness.
This combination makes Clara 2023 an excellent choice for anyone searching for a premium South African Sauvignon Blanc, an oak-aged Sauvignon Blanc from Constantia, or a sophisticated alternative to classic Loire and New Zealand styles.
Tasting Notes: Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023
The wine is light and bright in appearance, with an expressive nose of citrus, figs, lemongrass, and thyme. On the palate, the 2023 vintage is textured and creamy, with beautifully integrated oak and a distinctive granite salinity. Racy acidity keeps the richness balanced, while the citrus and herbal flavours carry through to a crisp, lively, and long finish.
Expect a more layered and gastronomic style than conventional Sauvignon Blanc, with the oak adding structure without overwhelming the mineral identity of the wine.
Food Pairings for Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023
The wine's combination of creamy texture, lively acidity, oak complexity and saline minerality makes it particularly versatile at the table.
Try Klein Constantia Clara 2023 with oysters, lobster, crab, grilled prawns or simply prepared white fish. It also works beautifully with goat’s cheese, asparagus, herb-driven salads and dishes featuring lemon, fresh herbs, or vinaigrette.
For a more substantial pairing, serve it with roast or grilled poultry where the wine's texture can complement the richness of the dish.
Why Buy Klein Constantia Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023?
Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is an excellent choice for collectors and enthusiasts looking beyond conventional Sauvignon Blanc. Its limited production, six-vineyard selection, wild barrel fermentation and nine months of French oak ageing give it a distinctive profile that sets it apart from both the estate Sauvignon Blanc and more fruit-focused examples of the variety.
If you are looking for a limited-production Constantia Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Clara offers an intriguing combination of richness, freshness, and mineral precision.
Serve chilled at approximately 8–10°C and allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to reveal its aromatic and textural complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Klein Constantia Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023 oak aged?
A. Yes. The 2023 Clara was wild fermented in barrel and aged for nine months in French oak, with 50% new French oak barrels used in the élevage.
Q. What does Clara Sauvignon Blanc 2023 taste like?
A. The wine shows citrus, fig, lemongrass, and thyme, followed by a creamy, textured palate with integrated oak, granite salinity, and lively acidity. The finish is crisp, fresh, and long.
Q. Is Clara 2023 different from Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc 2023?
A. Yes. Clara is made from a limited selection of the best barrels from six specific vineyards, while the estate Sauvignon Blanc is a broader blend of parcels from the estate. Clara also receives extended barrel ageing, giving it greater richness and texture.
Q. What food goes with Klein Constantia Clara 2023?
A. It pairs especially well with shellfish, lobster, prawns, white fish, goat’s cheese, and fresh salads. Its acidity and mineral character make it particularly effective with seafood.
