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 The properties Dassenberg, Von Ortloff and Dieu Donné have been amalgamated within Analjit’s Leeu portfolio, now named 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 general manager 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,according to a company statement. Both Leeu Dassenberg Estates and Leeu Rusthof Country Inn will re-open 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,” says Mr Singh, who reportedly serves only South African wine at his home in New Delhi.
Analjit Singh is the founder 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 Mr Singh 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.
Mr 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. The award winning producer renowned for its exceptional portfolio of wines is situated in the Swartland, a wine region 50 kms north of Cape Town.
Mr Singh is assisted in his wine ventures by esteemed viticulturist Rosa Kruger. Overseeing the local investments on Mr Singh’s behalf is Hector de Galard, President: Business Operations for Max Ventures.
As reported in delWine in April, 2014 he had bid to acquire 33% (actually about 30%) stake in India's largest producer Nashik Vintners, the biggest wine producers and owners of brand Sula. Although unsuccessful, it does indicate his passion and keen desire to move forward in the wine business both in South Africa and India. He was also a high profiled shareholder of Vodafone India and recently sold off his share to them reportedly for Rs.1241 Crores (Rs.12.41 billion). As reported, he has been scouting around for investment opportunities in the lifestyle and leisure businesses, which include setting up of a Spa and wellness resort project in Dehradun recently.
Vana Malsi Estate is a high-end wellness resort built on 21 acres of land on the Dehradun -Mussoorie Road, built at an investment of around $60 million and was opened earlier this year. (www.vanaretreats.com)
It appears the stage is set for us to hear a lot about the dynamic entrepreneur in the coming years in wine, hospitality and spa industry. |