Last Updated: Nov 15, 2024

Fifteen years ago, Jerome Smith had a vision—a dream not just for retirement, but one that was fueled by ambition and a deep respect for craftsmanship. That dream would soon become Cavalli Wine Estate, a place that embodies both a rich legacy and a lifelong pursuit of perfection.

In 2008, after a successful career in pharmaceuticals, Jerome set out to make his dream a reality. He envisioned creating a winery and restaurant nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch, a region renowned for its rich wine heritage. He enlisted the expertise of his daughter, Lauren Smith, an architect with a passion for design and a dedication to the environment.

Together, they embarked on an ambitious journey to build something extraordinary. Lauren’s skillful project management and visionary design turned their dream into reality, infusing the estate with a sense of refinement, balance, and beauty—values that mirrored Jerome’s lifelong dedication to excellence.

After years of searching for the ideal location, Jerome discovered an extraordinary 110-hectare plot in the Helderberg region. With breathtaking views and remarkable terroir, the land proved to be the perfect canvas for their vision. But for Lauren, this land was more than just a site—it was a precious resource that needed to be nurtured and preserved.

With a deep commitment to conservation, Lauren spearheaded efforts to protect the environment, ensuring that the estate remained in harmony with nature. She oversaw the restoration of critically endangered renosterveld, a rare type of vegetation, and worked tirelessly to re-establish 10 hectares of indigenous fynbos greenbelts across the estate. It was this dedication to sustainability that led Cavalli Wine Estate to become South Africa’s first Green Star-rated public building, setting a new benchmark for eco-conscious design.

From its inception, Cavalli Wine Estate was designed to be more than just a winery. Jerome and Lauren’s vision was clear: to create a world-class destination that offered an unparalleled experience.

Cavalli would be a place where excellence was woven into every detail—whether in the exceptional wines, the world-class cuisine, the stunning architecture, or the curated art collection. Beyond that, the estate would offer unique experiences, including luxurious equestrian activities and stunning fynbos gardens that celebrate the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the richest biodiversity hotspots on the planet.

Today, Cavalli is a destination that reflects the best of South Africa’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty. It’s a place where every visitor can feel the commitment to quality and craftsmanship that defines the estate.

As we celebrate 15 years of success, Cavalli Wine Estate stands as a proud testament to Jerome’s vision. The estate has come to symbolize the Japanese concept of Kaizen, which means “change for the better.” Kaizen is the belief that there is always room for improvement, that perfection is a continuous pursuit.

“Kaizen, Continuously improve. Constantly strive to improve across all areas. Small changes accumulate and make all the difference.” – Lauren Smith

This ethos of perpetual excellence is embedded in every aspect of Cavalli. It’s about always striving to refine and enhance the guest experience, whether through the wines, the food, or the surroundings. It’s a constant evolution toward something greater, and this philosophy continues to guide the estate today.

As we look back on the past 15 years, we are filled with gratitude—for the journey, the challenges, the achievements, and most importantly, for every guest who has been part of the Cavalli story. Here’s to continuing this legacy for years to come. Thank you for being part of our journey. Whether you’re here to taste our award-winning wines, explore our lush gardens, or simply enjoy a relaxing day in a breathtaking setting, we invite you to experience the legacy of Cavalli Wine Estate. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our passion for excellence.

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