The estate is owned by Lawrence Graff, an East Londoner who established himself in the jewellery trade and is best known for being the founder of Graff Diamonds.

You enter Delaire Graff through the impeccable gardens. Keith Kirsten, the horticulturist and an award-winning landscape designer, transports you to this wine luxury in South Africa

An avid collector of modern and contemporary art, Lawrence Graff has filled the estate with extraordinary and extravagant African art, even the grounds are full of wonderful sculptures, including 10 solid bronze cheetahs. The sculpture and artwork continues inside the property with artists such as Lionel Smit appearing frequently. You could have a great afternoon at the property immersing yourself in the African collection.

In 2013, a very special painting was returned back to South Africa when Laurence Graff purchased Vladimir Tretchikoff’s iconic Chinese Girl for £1m. Originally painted in Cape Town, this is one of the most iconic pieces of the 20th century, and the painting is on display in the entrance of the main building.

At Delaire Graff, the art continues in the form of boutique shops; Vana, 100% Capri, Africa Nova, and of course, Graff Diamonds

Delaire means ‘from the sky’, and looking out from the wine tasting terrace, you can understand why the name was given to the estate. At your tasting, the world is your oyster; you can start with the white wines such as the Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and the award-winning Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend. You can try the Cabernet Franc rosé, the Delaire Graff Sunrise Brut, or you can move onto the reds. Botmaskop (boat man’s peak) is a Bordeaux blend and a wine the estate is well known for.

Botmaskop is named after the highest peak on the estate which has expansive views and served as the lookout point for the French Huguenots who settled in Franschhoek. A signal would be given from the Peak announcing the impending arrival of ships to the surrounding farmers, alerting them to a potential market for their fresh produce!

The organic farm at Delaire Graff produces vegetables for the restaurants; there is pan-Asian fine dining in the contemporary restaurant, or there is the Delaire Graff restaurant which is described as having a “signature style bistro-chic cuisine with creative pairings” with “dishes infused with vibrant flavours.” As you can imagine, the décor at both restaurants is fabulous and there is also the option of sitting out on the expansive terrace.

Accommodation is available in the form of private lodges, each with its own private pool. If the accommodation is a little on the steep side then I suggest looking into the spa. Booking a morning package at the Spa involves two hours of treatments from their extensive menu, and also includes use of their infinity pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and sun beds. It’s the perfect way to spend the morning before settling into lunch at one of the restaurants; or you can do as I did, and relax by the pool with a bottle of Delaire Graff rosé!

In the Western Cape, we are spoilt for choice for beautiful estates and experiences; whether it’s farm chic Babylonstoren, La Motte‘s elegance or the impressive Boschendal. But if you want wine luxury in South Africa, then look no further than Delaire Graff.