Wine Composition
60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc & 5% Malbec
Winemakers Comments
Perhaps the most serious Ernie Els Signature yet, the 2011 is a brooding, powerfu Bordeaux-style blend produced from prime vineyards in the Helderberg appellation of Stellenbosch. Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, the purple edge and pitch black core immediately points to its unwavering nature and shadowing depth. Time in the glass uncovers notes of candied orange, cardamom, clove and dark olives, leading to an intense palate that shines with graphite and cassis. It has a towering structure built on a foundation of crunchy tannins and pure fruit, all solidified by fine yet spicy oak. Long and rewarding, the tail finally ends with a touch of salted liquorice. This is best cellared for 5 to 10 years as the heady tannins integrate further.
Awards
4.5 Stars - Platter's Wine Guide 2014
Veritas Wine Awards 2012 - Silver Medal
Technical Analysis
Alcohol Percentage
14.74%
TA
5.9 g/l
pH
3.53
RS
2.9 g/l
Vineyards/Vintage
The Hutton Clovelly soils contain a high gravel content which offers rich middle palate weight giving this wine exceptional depth and fruit purity. Each variety is separately managed to create unique and varied flavour profiles for this classic, ‘Medoc-style’, Bordeaux blend. With an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level together with the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean just 15 kilometres away, this extends the ripening period by up to 3 weeks resulting in lovely phenolic ripeness.
Cellar Techniques
Grape bunches were gently destalked with a Bucher de-stalker and lightly crushed. Fermentation took place in 7-ton, open-top stainless steel tanks with yeast WE 372 being added to the juice. The wines were pumped-over and punched-down manually 5 times per day ensuring maximum colour extraction from the skins. After primary fermentation the maceration period was 10 - 16 days before pressing. Each variety is maturated separately (micro-vinified) in oak barrels before blending and eventual bottling.
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.
** THIS WINE IS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR DISCOUNTS
