Leeu Estates

"Tell us about this place. What should we know from the outset?A whitewashed Cape Dutch–style cellar at Leeu Estates and Spa in Franschhoek is the perfect setting to taste Mullineux and Leeu Family Wines. It's a collaboration between wine industry pioneers from the Swartland region, Chris and Andrea Mullineux, and Leeu Collection owner Analjit Singh. Uncluttered and stylishly spartan, the wine studio is an intimate space, with several tables for two and two large tables for 10 to 15. It’s worth peeking at the art collection, too, which includes many life-size bronzes and paintings largely by South African artists. An art collection—that's a nice touch. What are the other patrons like?Everyone here is interested in wine—fine wines in particular. About half the guests are international—folks who will gamely pay to have their favorite bottles shipped directly to their door. Got it. Speaking of favorite bottles—how's the vino? They're especially known for their Chenins and Syrahs, beautiful and elegant wines that stand up to any Old World wines. Each selection is a true expression of the Swartland, a wine region north of Cape Town known for its maverick winemakers. Perfect. Can we get a bite to eat here, or should we nosh on something beforehand?There’s no food in the wine studio; the focus is exclusively on the grape. There are, however, breadsticks to cleanse the palate, and a plethora of restaurants nearby in the village of Franschhoek. Alright, noted. How about the staff—did they know their stuff?Knowledgeable and educated in wine, the staff all holds qualifications from either WSET, the Cape Wine Academy or PYDA. Everyone’s very passionate about what they’re pouring, and about viticulture generally. Excellent. Now, tell us: With so many other wineries in the area, why are we coming here?The Leeu tasting studio offers an opportunity to sample highly rated limited-availability wines; in fact, some may be sold out but still available for tasting on the farm in Franschhoek. This is definitely a setting to impress; book a table for two in winter and you’ll be treated to an intimate, romantic setting in front of a warming fire." - Jane Broughton