Wine Composition

Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot 25%, Cabernet Franc 5%, Malbec 5% & Petit Verdot 5%

Winemakers Comments

Deep garnet with ruby core. Evocative aromas of cedar, crushed mulberries, heirloom tomatoes dug out of the soil, sweetened by cassis opulence and refreshing hints of bouquet garni with lavender flowers. Classic and refined, the nose unspools with new leather, newspapers from the press, and cinnamon dusted plum. The 2017 vintage delivered concentrated fruit and this is evidenced on the weighty palate; showing off dark curves lined in velvet tannins. Sappy cassis and black cherry coalesce along a plummy line of acidity. The tannins are perfectly rounded by time in the bottle and draw the ample fruit into a beautifully dry finish that lingers with resonance.

Awards

Decanter World Wine Awards - Gold (95 Points)

Technical Analysis

Alcohol Percentage

14.77%

RS

2 g/l

TA

6.3 g/l

pH

3.56 

Vinification

All fruit was sourced from the Ernie Els Wines property, with vineyards that grow on the warm north-facing slopes of the Helderberg region within the Stellenbosch appellation. Each variety is separately managed to create unique and varied flavour profiles for this classic Bordeaux-style blend. With an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level, together with the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean, the ripening period can be extended resulting in wines with phenolic ripeness. Aged for 18 months in French Oak Barrels (60% new)

Winemaker

Name - Louis Strydom

Winery

As one of South Africa's leading ambassadors and one of the most recognizable faces in the world of sport, it is befitting that Ernie chose Stellenbosch to produce his wines. In 1999 the concept of Ernie Els Wines was born and with the help of award-winning winemaker Louis Strydom, they produced the maiden, 2000 vintage of Ernie Els - a 'classic' Bordeaux blend. The marketing synergy between the wine and Ernie's 'classic' golf swing were apparent. The intention from the outset was to focus on delivering a quality product that could hold its own in the company of the world's finest wines. Naturally, the plan was to start on a small scale, ensuring the packaging and presentation, marketing and distribution, were of a standard that was in-line with their vision for a premium product.
While men may dream different dreams, they are driven by the same quest: to reach for, and to accomplish perfection. No two pursuits bare the truth of this more than the perfect round of golf and the perfect bottle of wine. Ernie Els' life has mirrored a passion for excellence, which has been clearly reflected in his exceptional sporting achievements. His focus, discipline, and commitment have been the foundation of his success, and these factors are evident in his quest to produce premium wine.