She sits in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley in South Africa's Western Cape - her lush vines spread across 47-acres, with gentle vistas over the valley floor, in stunning contrast to the rugged mountains beyond. This is heartland South African wine country.
The honest simplicity of Grande Provence's Cape Dutch architecture sits easily in harmony with the precision and clarity of modern design bringing a refreshing new presence to the magnificent valley of Franschhoek.
Framing the entry road are rows of vineyards, heavy with the promise of next year's Cabernet. Here, one bears witness to the duality of old and new settling into an elegant co-existence. Mature trees take root amongst the 300-year old oaks, manicured hedges blend with the free form of the natural surroundings, creating a landscaped Eden.
Gracefully governing the setting is the 18th century Manor House and The Owner's Cottage welcomes guests to boutique accommodation. Five sumptuous rooms including a luxurious honeymoon suite provide a quiet and intimate retreat. Culinary excellence may be found in local fare prepared with passion, flavoured with global influences and served with elegance and simplicity.
The same ethos is mirrored in the modern but receptive setting of the Grande Provence Restaurant. Languid views of vineyards and lavender mountains are invited in, as The Restaurant opens to create a flow between the outdoors and in. During the summer months, grand old trees provide a dappled canopy under which to savour the estate’s cultivars, while in the winter double doors welcome connoisseurs in from the cold, to a striking yet cosy fire-lit wine-tasting area.
Centuries of life well lived and barrels of resting wine give this estate its sincere but elegant cultivars. Producing world class award winning wines under Grande Provence and Angels Tears labels, the Estate has produced many award winning vintages.
The Jonkershuis is an elegant extension to Grande Provence. Guests enjoy private dining under chandeliers made from recycled Angels Tears bottles. Stunning contemporary art adorns the walls. Adjoining the main dining room is a beautifully decorated area providing a more intimate meeting area.
The Jonkershuis is an ideal setting for special dinners and functions, small weddings, and boutique conferences. Its private kitchen can cater for up to 30 guests. As with everything at Grande Provence, the decor is unique and sumptuous, yet befitting the purpose of the room.