The Wine of the Huguenots
Among the early European settlers in South Africa’s Stellenbosch region were French Huguenots, who brought with them not only their Protestant traditions but also valuable knowledge and experience in winemaking.
Combined with the region’s excellent natural conditions, this heritage helped establish Stellenbosch as one of South Africa’s most important wine regions. Today, the area is renowned for both the quality of its wines and the remarkable number of estates scattered across its valleys and hillsides.
With its breathtaking landscapes, Stellenbosch has also developed into one of South Africa’s leading tourism destinations, supported by a sophisticated hospitality industry that includes some of the country’s finest restaurants and wine estates.
Renowned British diamond magnate and jewelry designer Laurence Graff visited the Delaire estate in 2003, approximately 50 kilometers from Cape Town. Impressed by the quality of the wines being produced there, he envisioned transforming the property into both a world-class wine estate and an exceptional luxury retreat.
That vision became Delaire Graff Estate, where fine wine, luxury hospitality, art, gastronomy and jewelry come together in spectacular surroundings.
Accommodation at Delaire Graff is offered in luxurious lodges that are essentially private villas, ranging from approximately 70 to 130 square meters. Each features its own private pool and terraces overlooking the estate’s magnificent landscapes.
All the lodges deliver an exceptionally luxurious experience, but one residence stands above the rest: the Owner’s Villa. Spanning approximately 660 square meters, it houses valuable works of art from Laurence Graff’s personal collection. The villa is offered with a dedicated hospitality team, including a private chef and butler.
Wine remains at the heart of the estate. Delaire Graff produces an impressive selection of wines, including Bordeaux-inspired reds and Chardonnay. Its wine-tasting experiences are carefully curated, with expert guidance accompanied by selections of cheeses and charcuterie, salmon, vegetables and other delicacies.
The estate is also a destination for gastronomy, with dining experiences showcasing seasonal produce, local influences and international culinary inspiration.
And then there is the art. Laurence Graff’s passion for collecting is evident throughout the property, where important works form an integral part of the guest experience rather than simply serving as decoration.
Given the owner’s primary profession, it is perhaps fitting that Delaire Graff is also home to a prestigious Graff jewelry boutique – bringing the world of exceptional diamonds into the heart of South African wine country.
Delaire Graff Estate is ultimately much more than a winery or luxury hotel. It is a destination where the pleasures of wine, gastronomy, art and extraordinary hospitality are brought together under one vision.
Bottom Line: Wine, Art and Diamonds
