Delaire Graff Estate is a beautiful and historic wine farm, situated just outside Stellenbosch, on the Helshoogte Mountain Pass. This wine farm dates back many years and was known as Avontuur prior to 1982.
Owned since 2003 by Laurence Graff, chairman of Graff Diamonds International, Delaire has changed tremendously during the past few years, now home to a variety of excellent experiences creating a most desirable wine, hospitality and art destination. Mr Graff, in association with internationally acclaimed interior architect, David Collins has taken Delaire to a different level. The new main building was launched in June 2009 after a complete rebuilt and the lodges followed in June 2010.
A 230 ton wine cellar is one of the most advanced in the country and beyond. Wine maker Morne Vrey creates world class wines from the high altitude vineyards. The Delaire wines makes for excellent pairing with the ‘sunshine cuisine’ produced by Chef Christiaan.
The tasting lounge can accommodate 40 guests inside and 40 guests outside on the terrace for a cocktail event. This venue is very popular and often used by corporate companies or private groups. The interior decoration and fireplace add to the atmosphere in this room.
Delaire Restaurant, in the very capable hands of Executive Chef Christiaan Campbell offers his signature style ‘bistro-chic’ cuisine. The seating capacity of 85 seats inside and 120 seats on the deck is a truly beautiful setting any time of the day and any time of the year. It is possible to reserve this restaurant on an exclusive use basis, offering guests a variety of excellent set menus, tailor made to the client’s individual requirements. The menu celebrates the use of local or South African produce, which through careful preparation, allows for a unique culinary experience.
The current seasonal a la carte menu includes delicious appetizers such as a chicken terrine with smoked apple, horseradish and roasted aubergine. On the mains you can enjoy a classic fish & chips or a more extravagant Cape rock lobster, king oyster mushroom, Parisian gnocchi and lobster bisque. Conclude this feast with a crème brulee or coffee toffee ice cream sandwich with mascarpone and hazelnut praline.
The Indochine Restaurant offers a fusion of Asian-inspired cuisine, a 40 seater space offering yet again exquisite views which patrons can enjoy during breakfast, lunch or dinner. Menus range from more formal to informal al fresco experience on the terrace. The approach is fresh & contemporary, using ingredients from the on-site greenhouse or alternatively sourced from the region.
For private dining the Vinoteque dining room is the perfect choice, accommodating up to 18 guests for a bespoke dinner experience with excellent food and wine pairing options.
Accommodation is a haven for the discerning traveler and consists of 10 lodges, offering custom-made interiors, beautiful bathrooms and patios overlooking the valley. Each chalet incorporates a private heated infinity pool, private fully stocked kitchen with Nespresso machine and butler. The eight entry level Deluxe Lodges of 80 square meters has all the luxury conveniences one can possibly think of including wireless internet, LED flat screen TV, Egyptian cotton linen, under floor heating, IPOD docking station, use of an iPad and fully stocked mini bar. Soft white gowns and Jo Malone bathroom amenities add to the feeling of sheer indulgence should you be in the fortunate position to stay at Delaire. The 150 square meter Presidential Lodge and the 175 square meter Owner’s Lodge both have 2 bedrooms each. All the lodges are positioned to allow for absolute privacy and amazing sunsets over the winelands. The maximum capacity is12 guests single and 24 guests double occupancy. Twin configuration available in 3 rooms.
Other than facilities mentioned above, further standard rate inclusions are daily newspaper, daily Stellenbosch town transfers, valet service, Delaire wine tasting and evening sparkling wine with canapés served daily.
Lodge guests also have complimentary access to a 10–12 seater boardroom as well as a 10 seater mini cinema with an extensive DVD collection. These facilities are also available to outside guests as a conference facility and charged accordingly.
The Spa has a full range of services and facilities including four treatment rooms, sauna and steam room. The products used in the spa are Aromatherapy Associates, Mama Mio and Swiss Perfection, the exclusive anti-aging skincare range from La Prairie Spa in Switzerland. The spa is open to in-house as well as day guests. The gym is located at the spa and has a fully qualified instructor.
The entire Delaire is an art haven with a beautiful selection of paintings, sculptures and statues of local and leading artists. Many sculptures adorn the Keith Kirsten designed gardens. Artwork is selected by Laurence Graff personally and he is well known in art circles as a major contemporary art collector.
Graff Diamonds Salon, opened towards the end of 2010 displaying a wide range of Graff jewelry, incorporating some of ‘the most fabulous diamonds in the world’ in a signature styled boutique.
100% Capri boutique is a first and only store of its kind in South Africa. The range includes mens, ladies and children’s garments, all ecologically friendly and 100% linen. All designs are inspired by the colours, shape and lifestyle of the Italian Isle of Capri.
In conclusion, at Delaire Graff, ‘the emphasis is on seclusion and taking pleasure in simple things – silence, fresh seasonal food, discreet service, special people, romance and the environment’
For more information and rates visit www.delaire.co.za 021 885 8160, info@delaire.co.za
Photos and quoted phrases courtesy of Delaire.
Contact Carla on carla@carlarossouw.com for corporate and leisure bookings at Delaire.
