The Wine Lounge

Honouring Heritage, Artisanship and Design – A destination created to evoke wonder!

Every detail has been thoughtfully considered. The space features an expansive, golden-veined Sahara Noir marble fireplace, above which hangs a striking modern work, a new addition to the space by American artist Kenny Scharf, entitled Junganity. The marbling continues through the striking wine display, tailored cabinetry and impressive service island counter.

Drawing on the mastery of artisans from across Africa, further marvels enrich and elevate the space: two exquisite hand-beaded tabletops within the Wine Lounge were made by four master artisans, Maasai women from Tanzania in East Africa, who worked slowly and meticulously to stitch more than 350,000 glass beads onto leather. Each bead was placed with intention, the deep aubergine tones echoing the vibrancy of the Estate’s wine collection.

The women who created these pieces had never undertaken a project of such intricate precision before – the sharp angles and the discipline of following such a structured pattern – they are instead used to softer lines, simpler motifs and the freedom of beading by hand. What emerged is a profound testament to their skill: guided with care, supported by daily check-ins and occasional, painstaking re-beading, the final design unfolded with quiet accuracy and care.

The technique itself is a fragile part of Maasai heritage, once practised on untreated hides for ceremonial attire and calabashes used to carry milk. As it fades in modern life, Sidai – the company behind the commission – seeks to keep it alive, creating thoughtful pieces that honour the patience, skill and cultural memory held in every bead stitched.

Within the Wine Tasting Lounge, a sophisticated colour scheme is created featuring Vellum-toned textured walls with wainscot panelling and drapery with purple chevron detailing, whilst opulent architectural lighting casts a golden glow on earthy-toned and textured natural materials, creating an elevated, timeless backdrop for Laurence Graff’s world-class art collection.

At our Wine Lounge, guests are invited to sip and savour some of South Africa’s finest vintages – outdoors on the terrace, encircled by sweeping views, or indoors, seated on amethyst-hued upholstery amid a dramatic interplay of marble and dark-stained timber. Our wine tutors guide visitors through the nuanced character of each varietal, offering a Luxury, Icon or red wine tasting, served alongside delicious platters.