Half vineyard half hotel, Delaire Graff Estate is a South African masterpiece.
Venturing deep into the lush lands and rolling green hills of Stellenbosch is a s journey well worth taking to reach this South African masterpiece. Delaire Graff Estate is a property gorgeous enough to stand as a destination itself, and one of true luxury. Renowned for its stunning setting, world-class wine making, and art collections, the estate has become synonymous with sophistication and elegance. The finesse from this serene property can’t be missed, and the fully private setting makes it a jewel in all it’s right.
Perched atop the Helshoogte Pass, Delaire Graff is a winery acting as a blend of natural splendor and human craftsmanship, with its panoramic views of the Stellenbosch Valley, lush vineyards, and the Simonsberg mountains. In addition, art is something of great presence and beautifully incorporated into the property, both inside and outside, creating a creative harmony. The art and the green wonders of the well trimmed garden make Delaire Graff truly feel like a celebration of artistic and natural heritage.
When staying overnight, the property offers rooms and private lodgesmaking for a true home away from home setting. The lodges range in different sizes, all equipped with terraces combined with infinity pools, and all boasting the gorgeous backdrop of the vine covered Stellenbosch hills. If you are traveling with a family or a group, the 130 sqm Presidential Lodges offer spacious areas with separate bedrooms connected by a vast living room. For those seeking the absolute top overnight experience though, the Owner’s Villa is a 660 sqm marvel of a home, including art pieces from the family Graff’s personal collection. This villa also comes with its own chef and butler who are there to cater all the needs the discerning traveler might have, ensuring a masterclass experience.
When guests are ready to leave the lodges, they can enjoy a state of the art spa, a cellar stocked with award-winning wines crafted on-site, or a lunch or dinner at the Graff restaurant. This venue is serving creative bistro dishes with an elegant touch of garden fresh local produce while again allowing guests to gaze over the stunning backdrop. However, something truly settingthe experience at Delaire Graff apart, is its commitment to excellence in dining by its flagship culinary venture, Hōseki.
Hōseki, meaning “jewel” in Japanese, lives up to its name as a glittering gem in the estate’s dining portfolio. This is true Japanese precision in culinary craftsmanship. Helmed by renowned chef Virgil Kahn, the intimate restaurant offers an omakase-style dining experience pairing Japanese culinary traditions with the freshness and diversity of South Africa’s finest ingredients.The best of both worlds simply put.
Guest entering the restaurant are greeted in a traditional Japanese manner, and you immediately feel welcomed into the experience you are about to embark on. The Japanese minimalist décor, featuring a stunning ceiling adorned with the expansive Swallows in Flight art piece, is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Stellenbosch mountains, creating a serene and exclusive atmosphere, especially at sunset.
The Omakase Journey
At Hōseki, chef Kahn incorporates the purity and precision of Japanese techniques while showcasing sustainably sourced South African elements like seafood, Cape herbs, and indigenous flavors. Each dish is a work of art, balancing flavor, texture, and presentation in perfect inventive harmony.
The omakase menu at Hōseki is a curated journey through flavors and textures. Unless you already knew, omakase is Japanese for ”I leave details up to you”, ensuring diners are taken on an exciting journey where tasty surprises are around the corner. An omakase might begin with classic Japanese small bites, followed by sushi, nigiri or sashimi of local yellowtail, delicately paired with pickled kelp and fermented rooibos for a distinctly South African twist.
Another standout dish are the tempura prawns, served with a mouth watering spicy plum. The meal crescendos with delicacies like Cape Wagyu beef tataki, sourced from a local farm and lightly seared, and miso-glazed trout, caught fresh from nearby rivers.
Desserts at Hōseki are equally inspired, with creations like mango parfait with white sesame ice cream, blending Japanese and South African flavors to create a memorable finale.
Hōseki also boasts an impressive selection of sake, sourced from boutique Japanese brewers, alongside Delaire Graff’s award-winning wines. The sommeliers are adept at pairing each dish with the perfect pour, whether it’s a crisp glass of Delaire Graff Chenin Blanc or a more robust Shiraz.
A Destination Unlike Any Other
Both Delaire Graff Estate and Hōseki place a strong emphasis on sustainability. The estate’s vineyards employ eco-friendly practices, and much of the produce used in Hōseki’s kitchen is grown on-site or sourced from local, ethical suppliers. This commitment not only ensures the highest quality but also reflects a dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the region.
Delaire Graff Estate creates a synergy of luxury, art, and culinary mastery. The property offers visitors a chance to indulge in the very best of South Africa’s winelands when it comes to pleasing all senses.
Whether you’re sipping a glass of estate-crafted wine on a sun-drenched terrace, admiring the curated art collection, or savoring each bite of Hōseki’s omakase offerings, every moment at Delaire Graff is destined to be unforgettable.
