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, was acquired by Graff in 2003
who vowed to make it one of South Africa’s
ultra-premier wineries and prominent restaurant
and hotel destinations. 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, a
unique restaurant and artworks representing
some of SA’s finest contemporary artists. The
grounds have been designed and re-landscaped
by Keith Kirsten and native plants
and trees have been used to ensure that,
ecologically, the land surrounding the vineyards
is spectacular and will 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.
General Manager, Johann Laubser, comments
“our Executive Chef, Christiaan
Campbell, is creating exceptional cuisine
with fresh, vibrant menus. The Delaire 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.
Delaire Wines blended by Chris Kelly, who
has twice been a finalist in the Diners Club
South African Winemakers Awards, 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. The Delaire Hotel and Spa will
open in 2010 and offer, along with luxurious
treatments, the unique experience of sleeping
amongst the vines.