If South Africa’s Stellenbosch Winelands are hailed as the ‘Kingdom of Cabernet’, then the slopes of the Helderberg are surely its royal court. Here, where the northwest slopes balance warm African sun with cooling oceanic breezes – and a healthy dose of altitude – these unique vineyards at Taaibosch are renowned for producing some of South Africa’s most iconic Bordeaux-style reds.

Wine aficionados will agree that the Taaibosch Crescendo is just that, a flag-bearer for fine wine from the southern tip of Africa, and a legendary brand that is rising, phoenix-like, thanks to the efforts of the Oddo family, who purchased the property in 2017. Alongside replanting vineyards and building a new cellar, the family has also opened the doors to three remarkable villa escapes that offer an immersive stay on a storied Cape estate.

Sitting proudly at the working heart of the farm is the five-bedroom Oak Manor House, dating back to 1838. It’s been refurbished to provide a comfortable base for families who want loads of space, rolling lawns and long terraces shaded by stately oak trees for lazy lunches outdoors. Typical of a family home that’s been added to over the years, the kitchen is relaxed farmhouse style (complete with old-world window seats, quirks from the 70s and a back door that requires a head duck), but that said, the in-house chef does breakfast and for the rest of the time, most families make use of the outdoor bbq at the sala near the pool) and eat on the front terrace.

Oak Manor House looks through the oaks and onto the heart of the farmstead and is just a short walk from the modern cellar which is not open to the public.Privacy is enjoyed by everyone who stays, and one exclusive tasting is offered within the cellar, introducing visitors to a Cape icon being reborn.

Nearby, and within the cluster of working farm buildings, is the newly built two-bedroom Olive Garden Villa – ideal for a single family, or two couples who would prefer modern, luxurious finishes and the service of a dedicated butler/host, who will help you settle in and lay out the generous breakfast spread each morning. While the kitchen comes fully equipped, there’s no need to do it yourself: private chefs are on hand to create bespoke menus – or whip up a traditional braai – as you prefer. A landscaped garden of indigenous fynbos surrounds the villa, while a private plunge pool (unfenced) offers the perfect splashdown after a day of winelands exploring.

On the hillside above, Views Forever Villa does just what it promises, opening up with panoramic views across the Cape winelands. Similar in architectural style to Olive GardenVilla, it accommodates up to eight guests in four spacious suites, with larger living areas ideally suited to multi-gen gatherings or a retreat with close friends. The contemporary indoor hearth and the poolside pizza oven lend themselves perfectly to convivial gatherings.

We have no doubt that lovers of fine wine will soon be flocking from around the world to enjoy an authentic stay in this unexpected mountain paradise under the lesser-known peaks of the Helderberg, whether they choose the historic homestead or the two contemporary villas.