More than three centuries ago, Huguenot settlers realised that the
fertile slopes and favourable climate encountered in the Franschhoek
Valley would make it an ideal place for growing wine grapes. Although a
flourishing winegrowing business developed in the region, it was
devastated by the phylloxera blight in the 19th century.
The
Dauphin family of entrepreneurs from Germany took over ALLÉE BLEUE in
1999. Thanks to their great pioneering spirit, they were able to breathe
new life into the winegrowing business here. The estate which was
founded in 1690 and covers an area of 150 hectares had not produced a
single drop of fine wine in around 100 years. Nowadays, it is once again
producing top-class red and white wines which are among the very best
in the world.
When carrying out the complete renovation, the new
owners were supported by Gundel and Emil Sogor, two German artists and
designers who made an important contribution towards the estate's unique
identity and high aesthetic standard. These days, the ALLÉE BLEUE
Estate harmoniously combines lovingly restored heritage, a contemporary
lifestyle and warm hospitality.