Delaire Graff Estate

Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds International Ltd, re-opens Delaire Graff Estate in June 2009 after a complete rebuild. Delaire, one of South Africa's finest vineyards in Stellenbosch, and was acquired by Graff in 2003 vowing to make it one of South Africa's ultra premier wineries and prominent restaurant and hotel destination. Delaire's unique location on the crest of the panoramic Helshoogte Mountain Pass is noted for its high altitude vineyards, excellent soils and cooling sea breezes.

The contemporary architecture has been designed to combine a 230 ton wine cellar, one of the most advanced in the Southern Hemisphere, ensuring that Delaire Wines continue to improve year on year. A unique restaurant, designed by David Collins of London, the world famous architect will combine indigenous African Architectural influences with some of the local Cape Dutch Style. Artworks represent some of SA's finest contemporary artists and have been selected by Laurence Graff, a major collector of contemporary art.

The grounds have been designed and re-landscaped by Keith Kirsten of Keith Kirsten Horticulture, a multi gold medal finalist at Chelsea Flower Show. Native plants and trees have been used to ensure that, ecologically, the land surrounding the vineyards is spectacular and form a beautiful backdrop to the winery itself. Some of South Africa's leading sculptors have been commissioned to create works for the exterior which will be a significant part of the Delaire experience.

Being in a Mediterranean climate, it is apt that authenticity and finesse, whilst yielding robust flavours from local produce, is combined to create a 'Sunshine Cuisine'. General Manager, Johann Laubser, comments "our Executive Chef, Christiaan Campbell, will create exceptional cuisine with fresh, vibrant menus. The Delaire Graff Estate Restaurant will offer an exceptional dining experience."

The lunch menu is light and vibrant in form with many of the dishes being baked or roasted in wood fired ovens. The evening menu shows great delicacy and elegance in its presentation and tastes without departing from signature bold flavours. Guests are able to dine on the terrace under a canopy of pin oak trees or within the spectacular interiors whilst enjoying the breathtaking views Delaire allows of the Stellenbosch valley and mountains.

The dishes on the menu will change regularly, using the best ingredients available on the day. The estate's herb and vegetable gardens along with local fresh seafood suppliers, artisan cheeses, poultry and meat producers, will supply the kitchens.

Delaire Wines have been to perfectly match Delaire's 'sunshine cuisine'. Delaire wines are available from the estate, are listed in several important wine manuals and distributed worldwide so can also be enjoyed at home.

Delaire is managed by The Mantis Group, known for its Shamwari Game Reserve in South Africa and international 5 star boutique hotels. The Delaire Hotel and Spa will open in 2010 and offer, along with luxurious treatments, the unique experience of sleeping amongst the vines.