Adding a touch of glass at Glenelly

May de Lencquesaing has one of the largest privately-owned glass collections in the world on display at her wine estate, Glenelly, just outside Stellenbosch.  She is passionate and very knowledgeable on glass and its history, and clearly is on first name terms with some of the top glass-blowing artists across the globe. Her valuable collection has pieces dating back 2000 years and includes a Salvador Dali and some very personal pieces; viz her own wedding present and clearly an unwanted wedding present of her mother's!
 
I am fascinated by glass, especially coloured glass, so my eye was very much drawn to the beautiful stained-glass collection as well as vibrant bright Murano and other spectacular pieces.

Glenelly has plenty to offer, from the fascinating glass collection to the fabulous views and repast at the Vine Bistro.  Chef Christophe Dehosse adds his French touch to the food, and at our media lunch we were treated to an incredibly delicious tomato/gazpacho with a difference.  Fresh, clear and bright!  Such a treat. And I am not a dessert person, but the little ''canelé'' after our cheese & figs were simply sublime. They are little French pastries flavoured with rum and vanilla with a soft and tender custard centre and a dark, thick caramelized crust.  Worth a visit just for these!

Winemaker Luke O’Cuinneagain tells the story of Mme inviting him around 10 years ago in France and opening a bottle of 1873 Lafite Rothschild to illustrate the longevity and elegance she is looking for in her wines.  At our media event on Valentine's Day, Luke took us through a tasting of their flagship 2008 and 2009 Lady May wines, which come predominantly from a single Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard planted on a cool East facing slope, with a dash of other Bordeaux varieties.  The 2 different vintages clearly expressed the different harvests, exactly what Luke is aiming for, and the elegance certainly showed itself, so I am sure Mme is pleased with the progress.