The word ‘luxury’ is highly subjective, transcending material definitions of excess and instead being deeply tied to an individual’s perceptions, cultural background, and personal desires. This subjectivity is what makes the concept of luxury so dynamic and intriguing.

However, if there is one place I think everyone would agree deserves this ever-evolving ‘title’, it would be Delaire Graff Estate. Placed perfectly within South Africa’s Stellenbosch wine region, the estate invites you to sink into serenity, surrounded by dramatic views, world-class wine, art that speaks to your soul and a team so professional yet personable, committed to championing community and sustainability.

I was honoured with an invitation to stay at this remarkable estate and spent my time immersed in a multidimensional experience. With every detail meticulously curated and an ethos that marries indulgence with responsibility and a deep sense of place, this destination is as dazzling as the diamonds that inspired it.

So let me take you through what makes this extraordinary estate worthy of winning so many awards, most recently holding the title of Best Accommodation in South Africa (Global Traveller’s award) as well as Decanter’s “Best in Show” 2024 for its Banghoek Chardonnay.

First Impressions: Manicured magic

Driving into the grounds of Delaire Graff Estate, before even making it through the doors, what truly captivated me was the overwhelming sense of tranquillity. Despite its grandeur, the Estate feels intimate and welcoming – a retreat where every element whispers of refined indulgence. Driving up the long entrance, framed by sculptural trees and perfectly manicured hedges, with vibrant bursts of colour unfolding around us, set a smile perfectly on my face (one that remained for the whole stay).

The drive itself is a sensory journey, with the Stellenbosch mountains rising majestically in the background and the vineyard-lined pathways guiding us forward. As the estate’s iconic bronze sculptures come into view, strategically placed amidst the lush greenery, it becomes clear that every detail has been curated to evoke wonder. The gardens are a real living art canvas, with over 350 indigenous plants nestled amongst art sculptures and water features.

By the time we step out of the car, the estate has already set the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Decor And Design: A Setting Of Artistry And Elegance

One of the most striking aspects of the estate’s design that I loved is its seamless integration with the natural landscape. Thanks to the creative visions of estate owner Laurence Graff alongside the interior design expertise of David Collins, the expansive glass walls, open terraces, and sweeping vistas ensure that the breathtaking views of the Stellenbosch mountains and vineyards are part of the interior experience. The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces invites lush greenery, natural light, and changing seasons into the heart of the estate, creating an environment that feels alive and dynamic.

The interiors shimmer with understated opulence – polished stone and natural woods, prioritising sustainable materials that are locally sourced, to ensure the estate shines not just for its beauty but also for its respect for the environment. Fireplaces, artisan-crafted chandeliers, and handwoven rugs add warmth to common spaces, paying homage to African craftsmanship alongside intentional details such as hand-carved woodwork and ceramic pieces. This rich narrative speaks to the estate’s roots and was a delight to see first-hand.

If wine is the beating heart of the estate, the artwork is the soul that breathes life and creativity into every corner – it’s not an accessory, but a defining feature. The earthy palette of the interiors are enhanced by splashes of vibrant colour from the estate’s extensive private art collection. These pieces, predominantly by contemporary South African artists, add cultural depth and are strategically placed to evoke thoughtful reflection from guests of the rich heritage of the region.

With over 450 pieces throughout the estate interiors and grounds, guests can enjoy a dedicated art tour, which is completely fascinating. For me, the pieces that really stood out were of course the Dylan Lewis cheetah sculptures. With a series of 13 cheetahs in the estate gardens, these life-size bronze sculptures embody the raw beauty, elegance, and power of the cheetah, one of Africa’s most iconic animals. The cheetahs represent both the beauty of South Africa’s wildlife and the fragile balance of its ecosystems. They serve as a poignant reminder of the need to protect these majestic creatures and the land they call home.

A piece of art within the Delaire Graff Restaurant also completely captivated me and is one of many important pieces within the estate which shows their dedication to not only celebrating African art, but also fostering meaningful conversations about heritage, resilience, and change. Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga’s “Fragile” is a prominent piece of contemporary art that explores the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Known for his signature figures adorned with electronic circuit patterns, Kamuanga Ilunga highlights the impact of global consumerism and technological advancements on Congolese cultural identity. The title, “Fragile,” underscores the vulnerability of individual and collective identities amid rapid modernisation. Vibrant colours and intricate details contrast with minimalistic backgrounds, creating a striking visual tension that had me mesmerised for what felt like an eternity.

Estate Lodges: Sanctuaries Of Serenity

The estate offers a collection of exclusive, freestanding lodges, each designed to provide ultimate privacy and tranquillity, with expansive terraces that frame the verdant vineyards below.

From one-bedroom spaces ideal for couples to sprawling family lodges, every option feels like a personal cocoon of comfort.

We stayed in one of the two Presidential Lodges on the property, and the whole experience blew my mind – unparalleled exclusivity from the moment we entered through the Lodge’s doors, where I slipped effortlessly into sophisticated serenity.

As with the rest of the estate, the lodge is designed to create a natural flow, leading us seamlessly from one luxurious space to another. The open-plan lounge is adorned with more of the estate’s South African art, plush furnishings and locally sourced textiles that feel both opulent and inviting. My favourite part was the floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors across the whole back of the Lodge – opening up to complete panoramic views of the Stellenbosch mountains, enjoyed from the privacy of our own infinity pool and extensive terrace.

For me, it’s the small details that really make a lasting impression, and Delaire understands this completely. From a welcome bottle of their classic rosé alongside traditional South African treats to a taster bottle of their bespoke Delaire Graff perfume waiting for us in each of our bedrooms, to the quality of the loose-leaf teas and coffees on offer in the lodge’s private bar – Delaire’s thoughtful touches really did make our stay feel completely personal.

On turndown service, slippers were placed at the ends of our beds, with a bottle of water alongside a certificate of the amount of carbon we had offset during our stay – both of which are a beautiful nod to Delaire’s commitments to Africa’s future. “Creating responsibly” is so integral to the philosophy at Delaire Graff, that every aspect of the lodges and estate is considered to ensure positive impacts on people and the planet. The water is filtered and bottled onsite, the slippers are made locally, from used plastic bottles that are changed into forever-felt, keeping every guest’s feet warm and cosy, and the linen in the rooms are purposefully not washed every day to help reduce water usage.

Wine Tasting: The Art Of The Vine

At the heart of Delaire’s allure lies its vineyard, producing some of South Africa’s most celebrated wines. Whilst the estate’s roots stretch back to the 1980s, it was 2003 when it entered a new chapter, being acquired by Laurence Graff, founder of Graff Diamonds. Whilst the romanticised story goes that he bought the property after seeing a clear sign in the form of two blue cranes (the national bird of South Africa) dancing in the Stellenbosh mountain sky around the estate, the reality is that the soil in front of where the Delaire graff Restaurant now stands was the first in South Africa to be assessed as 10/10 potential for growing Cabernet wine – the only soils to be so promising at the time.

And thus, under Graff’s meticulous guidance, the estate underwent a transformation, alongside trusted interior designer David Collins, and is continuously evolving to this day, with winemaking remaining its pinnacle art form. Each bottle, from the flagship Botmaskop to the refined Chenin Blanc, is a testament to the estate’s dedication to excellence and craftsmanship.

During the guided wine-tasting experience on the terrace of the wine lounge, we sampled the estate’s ‘icon’ collection which included the Cap Classique, Botmaskop Chardonnay, Terraced Block 2023 Chardonnay, the 2022 Banghoek Merlot and 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon. With uncompromised dramatic mountain views and the plethora of knowledge from the wine sommeliers, this really was an idyllic experience that invites you to awaken your senses. Understanding the nuances of each wine, from the soil and climate conditions to the production methods and tasting notes was fascinating. The icon range wines are renowned for their complexity, rich flavours, and elegance, and now I can see why – It’s a chance to not only taste exceptional wines but to understand the artistry behind their creation.

My favourite? Whilst I always love some bubbles, the Banghoek Chardonnay really stood out for me. Named after the mountainous corridor to which Delaire belongs, this Chardonnay reflects the unique terroir of the Cape Winelands, where the cool climate and rich soils provide the perfect conditions for growing high-quality grapes. On the nose, it offered citrus fruits with a hint of vanilla, and the signature creamy texture that characterises all the well-made Chardonnays was beautifully structured alongside crisp acidic notes for freshness. It’s a must-try for your own visit!

Dining at Delaire: A Culinary Gem

With three on-site restaurants to choose from, there’s no limit to the options at Delaire. From Delaire Graff Restaurant whose cuisine is guided by seasonality and a South African touch, to the newly opened Lorenzo’s Italian restaurant situated under a dramatic iroko timber pergola, and the renowned Hōseki restaurant, there is something for everyone.

The estate’s regenerative farming methods ensure its kitchens benefit from up to 65% of everything being grown on-site. The expert gardening team plants according to seasonal inspirations within the restaurants, and what can’t be grown on-site is ethically sourced from producers who share Delaire’s organic farming philosophy. Working only with local, certified sustainable farms and fisheries to ensure the environment, animals and communities are preserved and respected, the incredible quality of ingredients is thoroughly showcased in the dining experience.

Beyond this, any food waste from the estate is put to good use, being converted into organic, nutrient-rich compost and fertiliser at the on-site wormery. Absorbed at a slower rate than chemically created feed, it is one of the reasons why Delaire’s greenhouse, vegetable garden and vineyards thrive year-round.

We had dinner at the exclusive Hōseki restaurant, an intimate and truly authentic Japanese estate-to-plate dining. The restaurant’s name, meaning “gemstone” in Japanese, reflects its commitment to providing a dining experience that is both rare and exquisite. Under the guidance of renowned Head Chef Virgil Kahn, the restaurant opened after the estate’s remodelling in 2022. Delaire’s commitment to authenticity is clearly shown in this restaurant – hiring the Japanese Consulate General team to train the Hōseki staff in Japanese culture and service methods, as well as working alongside Japanese chefs to develop the menus and cooking techniques.

This is shown in the precision of the food, the professionalism of the service and the genuine connection between the chef, cuisine and guests. At the heart of Hōseki’s offering is the omakase concept, where diners entrust the chef to create a bespoke multi-course meal showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients. We tried this Chef Selection, and I can easily say it’s some of the best quality and tasting Japanese food I have ever had.

Each dish is a masterpiece, carefully curated to balance taste, texture, and presentation. Drawing on traditional Japanese techniques while subtly incorporating elements inspired by the Cape’s local bounty, the Chef’s Selection is both authentic and innovative. A selection of sushi included Bluefin Tuna Sashimi with Lungfish Roe, Bluefish Tuna and Salmon Nigiri, and Spicy Salmon Maki Rolls again with Lungfish Roe, all with daikon-infused wasabi and fresh ginger. Other dishes included a welcome charcoal and squid-ink infused bread and edamame, Cape Wagyu, palette cleansers of fruit sorbets, and an incredibly presented dessert known as Uncle Fluffy Creme Caramel (a must try!)

To complement the dining experience, we sample some expertly paired beverages, including rare sake, and, of course, the estate’s own award-winning wines. These pairings enhance the flavours of each dish, creating a seamless harmony between food and drink.

Spa Facilities: Rejuvenation with a Touch of Luxury

The Delaire Graff Spa is where relaxation meets mindfulness. The treatments, featuring ethically sourced products, are designed to rejuvenate body and spirit. I indulged in a 90-minute treatment, which was completely bespoke. My incredible therapist, Hildegard, invited me into the relaxation room before the treatment, where guests are encouraged to sit and switch off, being given paper and paint to ‘paint how you feel’ before (and then again after) your treatment. A novel concept which I thoroughly enjoyed – it’s not often we let our mind wander and capture this on paper.

Entering the treatment room, Hildegard first had a mini-consultation with me – seeking to understand any areas of tension or concern I had, and asking how I would like to feel following the treatment, inviting me to have a clear image in my mind of that feeling. From this short discussion, she crafted my 90-minute completely personalised treatment that addressed both body and mind, which included elements of Swedish, Lymphatic and Balinese techniques. From a full body massage, lymphatic facial and nourishing scalp treatment, alongside sound bath and breathing meditations, I can easily say this was one of the most unique spa experiences I have had the pleasure of trying.

Again the small touches make the biggest statement – From choosing your own essential oil scent that resonates with your energy before the treatment begins, to the heated treatment beds that cocoon you in warmth and ultimate relaxation and the lavender and scents which envelop you as you place your head into the massage table. Following this, Hildegard told me everything she did and why, offering personalised wellness tips based on the treatment to ensure the care extended beyond the spa. And to top it all off, after the treatment I was invited to linger in the completely private relaxation courtyard attached to my treatment room, where the combination of soothing music, mountain views, and tranquil design invites a state of mindful repose. A mango ice lolly, alongside infused water, was the perfect way to finish the experience – allowing my senses to awaken gently.

Commitment to Community and Conservation

Delaire Graff’s philosophy to “Create responsibly, Give whole-heartedly, Leave no trace” is evident throughout every guest’s stay. But it goes far beyond the estate itself, with clear and tangible socio-economic impacts thanks to the estate’s support of The FACET Foundation (For Africa’s Children Every Time). Established by Delaire’s founder, Laurence Graff in 2008, the Foundation is a charity that works with local partners to improve the lives of children and young adults in Southern Africa.

A stay at Delaire contributes directly to the support of the foundation’s programmes, from the Help Lesotho HIV and gender-based violence charity in Lesotho, Stepping Stones youth empowerment initiatives in Botswana, to the Pebbles Project, which works to improve the livelihoods of local Winelands farming communities in South Africa.

Beyond this, Delaire also prioritises the growth and development of its staff, and it shows evidently in the authenticity of the team. From hiring employees predominantly from the surrounding Winelands, Delaire offers skills training programmes, and access to affordable healthcare, and takes employee safety very seriously by ensuring the availability of transport for teams to get home after long working days.

This genuine commitment to social responsibility and community development in southern Africa is, for me, a big part of what makes Delaire Graff the epitome of luxury – true luxury goes beyond personal enjoyment – it’s about leaving a positive impact and meaningful social change, something Delaire is at the forefront of.

Final Thoughts

Delaire Graff embodies the essence of exclusivity through the experience it creates for every guest. it’s not just about what is provided, but the sense that every detail – no matter how small, has been carefully chosen to create something extraordinary.

The estate’s meticulous craftsmanship, from its emerald-green vineyards and gold-standard service to the sapphire-blue pool views and ruby-rich sunsets over the mountains, ensures a timeless appeal. Whether savouring the award-winning Botmaskop blend or marvelling at the curated art collection, every guest is part of a legacy that celebrates excellence, innovation, and artistry alongside deeply rooted social responsibility and conscious conservation practices.

The dream of Delaire is something everyone should make their reality – each moment there etched in your mind like a masterpiece on the canvas of life, too vivid to fade.

W: Delaire
T: +27 21 885 8160
E: Information

Written by Emma Blunt for Luxuria Lifestyle International