Flames & Fatherhood

Jay Maan, known as Mr Braai Guy, is one of South Africa’s leading open-fire chefs, crafting immersive culinary experiences inspired by the country’s rich braai culture—South Africa’s unique take on open-fire cooking. His food is refined yet grounded, celebrating bold flavours, seasonal ingredients, and the communal spirit of cooking over flame.

Whether hosting events in the bush, private homes, or remote locations, Jay invites guests to slow down, connect, and savour unforgettable meals by the fire. He’s been featured in cookbooks, magazines, on radio, and recently appeared on kykNET’s Kokkedoor Vuur en Vlam where his signature smoke-kissed style stood out.

Winemaker, Simon Smith, has been pivotal in our efforts to produce high quality, award-winning wines. These achievements can be attributed to Simon’s meticulous viticultural practices and vinification as well as his dedication and loyalty.

Louisvale is known for producing elegant quality wines across the selection and can be found in supermarkets, restaurants, hotels and guesthouses throughout South Africa. Louisvale wines are also available at selective airport lounges. Export markets include Germany, Belgium, Holland, the United Kingdom and China.

The vineyards are all east-facing and planted in an east-west direction. The Bottelary Hill to the west offers welcome shade in the peak of summer when the sun sets behind it allowing for slower ripening and richer fruit development. Deep, well-drained Hutton and Clovelly decomposed granite soils ensure that the vineyards remain ‘dryland’ until after the harvest, after which the vines are irrigated.