The properties Dassenberg, Von Ortloff and Dieu Donné have been amalgamated within Singh's Leeu portfolio, under the name Leeu Dassenberg Estates. Activities on site are currently focused on re-introducing fynbos and removing alien vegetation. Hospitality expert Matthew Smith has been appointed as GM of the enterprise. The overall team is led by Hector de Galard, a reputed expert in hospitality and property development.
Also new to the Leeu portfolio is Rusthof Country Inn, a property in the heart of Franschhoek village. Leeu Rusthof Country Inn will be closed from July for refurbishment. Staff will be retained and manager Jessica van Schoor, who has been there for the past seven years, will remain.
Both Leeu Dassenberg Estates and Leeu Rusthof Country Inn will reopen in the summer.
"South Africa is a beautiful country with the friendliest people, who have made me feel truly welcome. It has an unparalleled sense of peace. I love the people, the style, the gentle manner and a lot about being here. I am excited about the great opportunities that have become available to me and look forward to learning and making a contribution, in particular to the country's top-notch wine industry," said Singh, who only serves South African wine at his home in India.
Singh is the founder and chairman of The Max India Group with interests in life insurance, health insurance and health care. His South African investment is the first project undertaken by him in his personal capacity outside of India and is reflected in the enterprise's name: the Afrikaans word leeu means lion, the Sanskrit derivation of Singh.
Singh's interest in South Africa was sparked during his visit to the country in 2010, for the FIFA World Cup. He assembled a team to investigate possible investments and towards the end of last year acquired shares in Mullineux Family Wines. Renamed Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, the award-winning producer renowned for its exceptional portfolio of wines is situated in the Swartland, a wine region 50km north of Cape Town. Singh is assisted in his wine ventures by viticulturist Rosa Kruger.
