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 are renowned for producing some of South Africa’s most iconic Bordeaux-style reds.

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 a handful of remarkable villa escapes that combine contemporary decor and classic touches with an immersive stay on a storied Cape estate.

Hidden in the cleft of a valley between the vineyards, a two-bedroom Olive Garden Villa is ideal for a single family, or two couples, with a spacious lounge and living area giving onto an open kitchen. Bookshelves come well-stocked, as does the fridge and pantry, filled with local treats to make yourself at home.

The decor suggests you so much the same, with comfortable living areas indoors and out. From the bespoke botanical artworks to the fynbos-inspired fabrics in the en-suite bedrooms, it’s a wonderfully contemporary take on farm living. The white leather riempie chairs at the spacious dining table, and the enclosed central fireplace that reinterprets the country hearth, are a delight.

As is the service from the 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 Garden Villa, it accommodates up to eight guests in four spacious suites and offers larger living areas ideally suited to multi-gen gatherings or a getaway with friends. The contemporary indoor hearth and the poolside pizza oven lend themselves perfectly to convivial gatherings.

The final piece of the puzzle is the five-bedroom Oak Manor House, dating to 1838 but similarly updated to offer a modern take on farm life. With a wide brick terrace shaded by stately oak trees, it looks onto the heart of the farmstead, just a short walk from the modern cellar. Here, exclusive tastings are offered within the cellar, introducing visitors to a Cape icon being reborn.