Inside the Delaire Graff Estate, and the best wines they produce
The ultimate in luxury, and a world-leading destination for wine, this is ‘The Jewel of the Cape Winelands’
Words: Gentleman's Journal
This year, there has been a new object of desire amongst the super-wealthy. Normal, such high-earning individuals go for a supercar or superyacht, but this new trend is slightly different. A little less of an initial investment than a superyacht, the running costs can be equally as depressing – but running a winery is one of the most popular pastimes at the moment among the rich and famous.
Before Brad Pitt took to the vineyards, however, there was Laurence Graff. The billionaire behind the sought-after Graff Diamonds brand, Graff himself owns the incredible Delayer Graff, in the Stellenbosch wine region of South Africa.
And, over the course of the last decade, Graff has continuously invested in his craft – and the result is one of the country’s most impressive wineries, producing fantastic wines that are quickly becoming globally recognised.
The incredible views provide the perfect backdrop to the estate’s outstanding restaurants, state-of-the-art winery, exclusive Lodges, Spa and luxury boutiques – and for these reasons, Delaire Graff has quite rightly gained itself a reputation as one of the leading wineries in the Southern Hemisphere.
And it may be the cool Atlantic breeze or the mountainous terrain that creates these award-winning wines, but it is a place to behold. Particularly impressive are the estate’s red wines, all big in structure, but boasting elegant finishes. If we had to pick a favourite, it would have to be the Botmaskop, which is extremely well priced for a wine of such depth and complexity. Here are some more bottles worth your attention.
Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, this unique Rosé displays flavours of ripe strawberries, cassis and candyfloss with dark red berries and cream on the mid palate and a juicy, crisp and dry finish.
A classic maritime Sauvignon Blanc, this wine reveals aromas of cut grass, asparagus and hints of citrus tropical fruit. Discover a multilayered, mouth feel, crisp vibrancy with flavours of Cape gooseberry and zesty fruit with a mineral finish.
Light golden wheat colour. Layered expressions of citrus and tropical fruit with subtle layers of honey and almonds in the background. Balanced and superbly structured, the flavours are complimented by a delicate minerality.
Powerful, yet elegant and polished. A red blend with classic aromas of dark berry fruit, spice and cassis. The softness of tannins and balance in structure complete this wine on the palate. Optimal ageing potential of 5 – 8 years.
Velvet textured, complex and powerful. Cassis, dark fruit and spicy flavours dominate in a layered and lingering delivery. The wine is suited for aging of 6-10 years.
An expressive bouquet of smoky floral and citrus notes on the nose. On the palate, almonds, pears and passion fruit are supported by a crisp acidity and fine spicy minerals.
The featured wines are available for purchase in the UK through armitwines.co.uk
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