Stellenbosch · Helshoogte Pass, Stellenbosch
Delaire Graff Estate
The most spectacular view on the wine route, a two-restaurant estate and Laurence Graff's private art collection.
About Delaire Graff Estate
Perched on the Helshoogte Pass with a jaw-dropping view over the Banghoek valley to the Simonsberg. Two restaurants, a lodge, spa and Laurence Graff's private sculpture and art collection.
Delaire Graff is the flagship of jeweller Laurence Graff's Cape portfolio and easily the most luxurious cellar door on the wine route. The estate sits at the top of Helshoogte Pass, so the view alone justifies the drive — a wide sweep across vineyards, oaks and the Simonsberg range.
History
The property was replanted and rebuilt from 2003 after Graff's acquisition. The estate now includes the Restaurant, Indochine (Asian-fusion under a swallow-sculpture ceiling), a five-star lodge, spa and gallery — arguably the most complete winery experience in South Africa.
The wine experience
Seated tastings on the terrace overlook the Simonsberg. The Terroir Tasting focuses on the flagship reds and Chardonnays; the Reserve Tasting adds the top-tier Laurence Graff Reserve. A Sushi-and-Wine pairing runs in Indochine.
- Terroir tasting
- Reserve tasting
- Sushi & wine pairing
Signature wines
- Laurence Graff Reserve
- Botmaskop (Bordeaux blend)
- Terraced Block Chardonnay
- Coastal Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc
Food on the estate
Two restaurants: Delaire Graff Restaurant (contemporary Cape) and Indochine (Asian-fusion).
Pros and cons
An honest read from a driver who's been to every farm on this list.
Pros
- Arguably the most spectacular view of any cellar door in South Africa
- Two excellent restaurants on-site — no need to move for lunch
- Public art and sculpture collection worth a visit on its own
- Sits perfectly on the Helshoogte Pass — an easy stop between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Five-star lodge and spa for overnight guests
Cons
- One of the most expensive tastings and restaurants in the winelands
- Extremely popular — book Indochine 4–6 weeks ahead in summer
- Formal service style can feel corporate compared with family estates
- Parking fills up quickly on weekends
Best for
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about visiting Delaire Graff Estate.
How much does a wine tasting at Delaire Graff Estate cost?+
Tastings at Delaire Graff Estate start from R220 per person. Options include Terroir tasting, Reserve tasting, Sushi & wine pairing. Prices are typically waived or discounted with a bottle purchase — confirm current rates directly with the estate as they change seasonally.
What are Delaire Graff Estate's opening hours?+
Delaire Graff Estate is open Mon–Sun 09:00–17:00. Tastings are pre-booked and the last tasting slot usually closes 60–90 minutes before the estate does, so arrive with time to spare.
How far is Delaire Graff Estate from Cape Town and Stellenbosch?+
Delaire Graff Estate is roughly 50 minutes by car from central Cape Town and about 15 minutes from Stellenbosch town, traffic depending. The estate is at Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch.
Do I need to book in advance at Delaire Graff Estate?+
Yes — like most Stellenbosch estates, Delaire Graff Estate works on pre-booked tastings, especially on weekends and in peak season (November–April). Walk-ins are sometimes possible mid-week but never guaranteed.
Is there food available at Delaire Graff Estate?+
Two restaurants: Delaire Graff Restaurant (contemporary Cape) and Indochine (Asian-fusion).
Can Stellenbosch Shuttles drive me to Delaire Graff Estate?+
Yes. We run private, all-inclusive day tours to Delaire Graff Estate and the wider Stellenbosch winelands from Cape Town, Stellenbosch and the Winelands hotels. One flat rate covers the vehicle, driver, fuel and tolls — you taste freely, we drive safely. Request a quote for your dates and group size.
More wine farms in Stellenbosch
Waterford Estate
Mediterranean courtyards, Kevin Arnold Shiraz and a chocolate-and-wine pairing that redefines the category.
Kanonkop Wine Estate
First Growth of the Cape — Paul Sauer Cabernet blend and open-fermenter Pinotage.
Meerlust Estate
Eight generations of the Myburgh family and the iconic Meerlust Rubicon — South Africa's original Bordeaux blend.
Visiting Delaire Graff Estate? We'll drive.
One flat all-day rate — driver, fuel, tolls and cellar-door bottle collection included.