ASARA – THE NEW SENSATION IN THE WINELANDS

An enchanting, three-century old wine estate (Anno 1691) on the edge of Stellenbosch, has risen like the proverbial phoenix from the ashes over the past seven years to become one of the Cape’s most exclusive wineland destinations.  When the wine farm, Verdun, was bought by entrepreneur, Markus Rahmann in 2001, the vineyards were fairly well established but the outbuildings were in a run-down condition.  Today, the newly-named luxurious “Asara” with its latest 5-star hotel addition, is almost unrecognisable.  A 36 bed-roomed hotel opened on the estate in May, 2008, where guests can indulge in five-star luxury  accommodation, fine wine tastings, superb service, and gourmet dining in either of the two restaurants, Raphael’s and Bistro & Tapas @ ASARA. All of which boast spectacular views with their tranquil waterside setting, backed by the grandeur of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains and vineyards all around providing an idyllic backdrop.  Discreetly tucked away in the middle of the vines of this working wine estate, one of Asara Hotel’s many attractions is its warm, relaxed hospitality.  Asara also make use of the  reduce, reuse and recycle criteria within their hotel and venue.  They also have a system in place to ensure the correct amount of items are in stock and that all containers and cardboard are sent to recalling therefore reducing the amount of waste collected weekly.  All their plastic, glass and food items (wet and dry) are collected by a recycling company weekly.  Food items are collected by pig farmers weekly.  Solar panels ensure that the hotel uses less electricity.

The name “Asara” derives from the names of the African gods of Earth, Sun and Sky, and represents the harmony of nature reflected in the estate’s range of award winning wines.  The entire concept is the brainchild of owners, Markus and Christiane Rahmann. Buying a winery was never at the top of the Rahmann’s “To do” list, but a chance trip to South Africa on the back of a motorbike led to a whole new inspiration and direction in life.  This endeavor definitely has a long term view. Going into the hotel and wine industry means time and much investment. “We are here in the long term to add value to the wine and hospitality industry”.

Both the restaurants and bar offer the option of Al fresco dining overlooking the picturesque dams with its vast array of birdlife, mountains and vineyards, and offer everything from affordable light meals to fine-dining delights.  Bistro & Tapas @ ASARA on the waters edge offers a unique vibe with its wood and maroon décor, as well as the individually created and prepared bite-size Mediterranean inspired dishes, served up alongside typically informal bistro fare.  Raphael’s, the continental-style, classical restaurant on the estate, provides versatile dining room seating. With its timeless furnishings of brocaded chairs, sparkling glasses and

crisp white tablecloths, guests can enjoy a whole range of classic European cuisine, all perfectly prepared under the well-experienced guidance of French-Alsacienne Executive Chef, Patrick Bischoff, either indoors or on the outdoor veranda.

Patrick’s philosophy of “five-star cuisine in a world class setting, incorporating local produce” can be complimented by Asara’s range of award wining wines as well as the exclusive Vinoteque stock, offering 20 000 bottles of the finest and rarest local and foreign wines for the connoisseur’s selection.  The “Sansibar” Whisky & Cigar Lounge Bar (named after the bar on the island of Sylt, North West Germany), has a great warm ambiance of its own, and is proving a favourite day-time or after-dinner spot for guests looking to indulge in a cigar from the built-in humidor feature, with a dram of the finest single malt whiskey.

There is no cutting of corners here at Asara. Everything is simply of the best quality, be it from its carefully trained staff, the extra spacious rooms with modern bathrooms, elegant décor, to the exquisitely prepared and presented food.

Colour schemes, fabric selections and décor, are the result of Markus and Christiane’s natural flair for elegance and quality. Simple, yet exotic orchids, which are Asara created and registered, are perfectly placed around the hotel.  One of the most characteristic features of Asara is its extraordinary lighting. The specially selected Tiffany lamps and chandeliers, which are supplied from Markus’ own export lighting business in China, are quite exceptional, and these state-of-the-art designs blend in beautifully as features of their very own.  There many things to explore and talk about at Asara. You may wish to taste of its many outstanding wines in the Wine Tasting Centre, browse through the range of imported Asara  brand clothing, buy some fresh treats from the in-house Delicatessen & Confectionary to take home with you. These attractions are situated around a beautiful small-village style centre fountain courtyard, overlooking the spectacular Stellenbosch valleys and mountains.

It’s the perfect place for a special occasion. Not only could you get married here in sumptuous style in the Grand Ball Room, you may even place your wedding register here at the Estate’s kitchen emporium “High End Kitchens @ Asara”. A stay in the fairytale three storey Avalon honeymoon suite, complete with spiral staircase, a bath under a huge chandelier, specially created for this very unique room is a treat of its own. It’s a place to celebrate!

Asara Wine Estate & Hotel, a 2009 member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux Association, is ideally located in the heart of the Winelands, close to numerous cultural, historical and culinary attractions, as well as award winning golf courses, all a mere 20 minutes drive from Cape Town International Airport.

Our function hall can accommodate up to 160 people with a dance floor (if you feel like dancing the night away), and 180 without. There is also a large lawn area outside the hall with views over our vine yards and dams in which we can arrange a marquee tent that will be able to seat up to 500 guests.

If you are looking for a smaller, more intimate affair feel free to utilize one of our smaller restaurant venues – Raphael’s, the Bistro & Tapas, or even the Sansibar lounge with its veranda overlooking the stunning mountains and vineyards. The choice is yours...

Allow our talented chefs to create a menu for your big day, tailored to suit your individual needs and tastes, and, of course, all of our fabulous food will be perfectly complemented by a selection of our very own ASARA wine. Leave all the stress and planning to our experienced staff, which can ensure that you walk away with the greatest memories.  After the reception, treat yourselves to a night or two in our stunning three storey honeymoon tower – the Avalon Suite. With its winding staircase and romantic Victorian bath it is the perfect way to begin your new life together.

Creating the wedding you both desire can be a very stressful endeavour. Our professional staff will make your planning worries and stress disappear while you maintain control of your day.  We will help you create your vision of a personal and memorable wedding by reducing the stress involved in the planning. Here are a few things to remember!

12 to 6 months in advance

Get the date

Plan your budget

Arrange your ceremony time, day and year

Meet the marriage officer

Plan your first guest list

Call ASARA wine estate to get the perfect venue – ask for a ceremony location on the vine yards

Decide on Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

Find and meet a photographer

ASARA is working with one of the best wedding planners in Cape Town to assist you in all your

planning and organisation

Get a folder where you can put all your wedding papers inside:

Your ID Books, if you have been married before: Divorce decree,

if you are a widow or widower: Death certificate;

if you intend to enter into an ante-nuptial contract this must be concluded prior to the day

of the wedding.

If you are not South Africa, certified copies of your passport picture page and visa page (the

marriage officer is also a Commissioner of Oaths and will be able to certify your copies)

6 to 4 months in advance

Bride and Groom wedding attire and accessories

Bride maids’ dresses and suits for groomsmen

Buy your ring pillow

Videographer and photographer (if not already planned)

Menu and beverages – make an appointment with Patrick Bischoff, Executive Chef at ASARA

Order your Wedding Cake at ASARA Wine Estate & Hotel

Source Decor for reception venue and ceremony – ask ASARA for recommendations

Musicians or DJ at ceremony and/or reception – ask ASARA for recommendations

Meet your favourite Florist

Get your wedding ring

7 31/09

3 to 1 month in advance

Visit dance classes

Organise Gift Registry

Hair and Make-up Artists - make rotational appointment

May be visiting a tanning salon

Stationery - invites, menus, table seating plan, order of service

Guest book

Honeymoon planning incl. getting your papers, booking hotels and flights, immunization

Give the Pre-Nuptial Agreement

Try on your brides dress; see if it needs to get resized

Book or confirm the accommodations at ASARA for out-of-town guests

Wedding day schedule

Ceremony rehearsal

Transport of elderly guests to the wedding

Setting up of reception room on the day

Ceremony readings

Picking up of Suits, Wedding Dress and Bridesmaids outfits

Introductions, order of events, toasts, first dance, bouquet toss, etc.

Gifts for bride maids and parents

After the event


Have a wonderful private breakfast at ASARA Wine Estate & Hotel with your guests

Thank notes or videos / photos for the guests