After closing to the public for extensive renovations over the past year, the Stellenbosch estate has re-opened as a world-class Winelands destination including a hospitable bistro, a tasting room with spectacular views,a new presentation of Madame’s unique glass collection as well as a series of new vintages across the estate's range of wines.
The team has taken the opportunity to refresh the brand and create a clearer, more distinctive identity. The main elements of the old Glenelly logo remain, but in the form of a classic 19th-century illustration of an elegant French lady riding side-saddle a powerful South African rhino. The floating and fragile glass in her hand creates a surprising contrast, symbol of a unique balance.
An embossed stamp now appears on all wine labels, carrying with it nearly 250 years of the family’s involvement in the wine industry. Their ancestor, Elie Miailhe, was granted the title of ‘royal wine broker’ in 1783. May de Lencquesaing (née Miailhe), continues this tradition together with her grandchildren. Three specific pantone colours of red, orange and brown are the new corporate colours symbolising three key elements: the sun, the soil, and the wine. All the labels now have a more distinctive and high-end look and feel, incorporating embossing, high bold and gold foiling on premium quality paper.
Glenelly's three tiers of wine include the Glass Collection range - single varietal wines, with a great expression of the terroir and vintage. The Estate Reserve range which is the new, more recognisable and more pronounceable name for the previous Grand Vin range. Lady May, named in honour of Glenelly’s Grande Dame, comes predominantly from a single vineyard.
The new tasting room, on the top floor of the modern winery, overlooks the gentle lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. Fuelled by natural light, the contemporary bar made using granite from the estate invites the guests to sit and taste. A series of tasting experiences and food pairings enable both neophytes and connoisseurs to enjoy and discover the award-winning wines.
Visitors will be able to taste current and back vintages of the Glass Collection, Estate Reserve, and Lady May wines. In the same room, the winemaker’s private tasting area is only separated by a large cabinet de curiosité featuring intriguing elements related to wine, the family, and the estate. The elegant design, exquisite use of light, and uninterrupted views provide the ideal setting to appreciate the fine wines of Glenelly.
According to May, “wines are made to pair with food, so introducing a culinary experience at Glenelly was the logical next step on our journey. My grandchildren initiated this project a few months ago with Christophe Dehosse, the ideal chef to look after this exciting new venture: French, but very established in South Africa, mastering haute cuisine but cooking simple dishes, getting his inspiration from traditional bistros of his homeland while experimenting with African and Mediterranean ingredients.
He sources local organic farm products and serves very seasonal food”. Inside, the decor is warm and elegant and includes a harmonious mix of 19th-century chairs, classic Parisian tables, a contemporary cellar, a fireplace for the winter, leather banquettes and a traditional bar with brass. Outside, on the terrace or under the pergola, expect long wooden tables, a water feature, plants and a pétanque court for long lazy afternoons enjoying the picturesque views of the estate.
The presentation of the extensive private collection of glass acquired by May de Lencquesaing has been totally redesigned. Situated in the underground of the winery, you’ll be taken on a journey through 2000 years of glassmaking, with the 160 pieces of the collection each telling a story. The room has intentionally been painted in a charcoal grey for the beautifully illuminated glasses to take centre stage. You will see Roman pieces, XVIIth and XVIIIth century glasses, but also Daum, Salvador Dali as well as American and South African contemporary artists.
