We are honoured to share a remarkable feature published in Decanter celebrating the life and legacy of our founder, May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, as she reaches her 100th year.
Spanning a century shaped by Bordeaux, resilience, and an unwavering passion for wine, the article traces May-Eliane’s extraordinary journey, from her early years among the great estates of the Médoc to her bold decision to begin again in Stellenbosch with Glenelly Estate.
At the heart of the story is a spirit of determination. In 1978, May-Eliane became one of the first women to lead a classified growth in Bordeaux, taking the helm at Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande and earning international acclaim for her wines. Decades later, guided by both instinct and vision, she turned her attention to South Africa. She was drawn by its potential, its people, and a belief in what could be achieved on the slopes of the Simonsberg.
Glenelly represents that enduring philosophy. It is a marriage of French heritage and South African terroir, built on precision, respect for the land, and a long-term view of quality.
Now, at 100, May-Eliane remains as curious and forward-looking as ever. She is still questioning, still refining, and still deeply connected to the estate she founded.
We invite you to read the full Decanter feature and discover more about the woman behind Glenelly.
