Story and photo by Jeffrey James Keyes
Waking up at the Delaire Graff Estate is just about as good as it gets.
Imagine the sun rising across an expansive vineyard as you splash around in your private heated infinity pool. Sure, there are plenty of things to do in Cape Town but cancel the sightseeing for a few days and recharge in wine country. Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds dreamed big when he reopened the property, situated in the crest of the Helshoogte Mountain Pass just outside of Cape Town where the scent of fresh jasmine fills the air, and the sun always seems to be out.
The 10 unique lodges of Delaire swing around a decadent main lodge that features the first-class Indochine Restaurant, a private cinema, meeting facilities, gymnasium, Pilates studio, and luxury spa. Pierre Bories designed the property, with interiors by the remarkable David Collins.
Morne Vrey, the resident Winemaker at Delaire, sets the scene for a wine lover’s passion play. The high altitude vineyards, excellent soils, and cooling breezes matched with their high-tech 230-ton wine cellar make for wine you will most definitely sneak through customs. The Delaire Sauvignon Blanc, with underpinning layers of gooseberry and asparagus, is one of the most delicious and flavorful glasses in the region. If you’re in the mood for red, the intense and aromatic Delaire Red Blend is a must.
After a tasting, be sure to explore the grounds and the gardens, peppered with sculptures and works of African art by the likes of William Kentridge, Sydney Kumalo, Dylan Lewis, Robert Hodgins, and Deborah Bell. Even if you don’t leave the property with a shiny new Graff diamond, a weekend at the Delaire Graff Estate will make you feel like you’ve struck it rich.
