This superb Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal for current consumption but has plenty of time left in it for the patient. The nose opens with a generous bouquet of berry fruit with herbal nuances and hints of a cigar box. There is plenty of lively red fruit with cherry and plum being predominant. The palate is medium bodied with plenty of firm tannins that will soften in time but for now they don't overbalance the fruit. There is a certain tension in the wine that makes it appealing and the finish is focused and fine.
- Country: South Africa
- Region: Coastal Region
- Subregion: Stellenbosch
- Vintage: 2018
- Colour: Red
- Grape Variety: 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot.
- ABV: 14%
- Bottle Size: 75cl
- Closure: Natural cork
- Style: Elegant and fine
- Drink With: Roast rib of beef.
This seductive Cabernet Sauvignon uses many of the seven different clones to create the wine. All of the diverse clonal batches were vinified separately before the final blend was made, this it has much more complexity than most Cabernets of this price.
Tim Aitkin 91 points.
Veritas Double Gold Award
Platter's Guide 4.5 stars.
About the grower
Ernie Els Wines was established in 1999, and from the outset the intention was to produce world class wines that mirrored the quality of some of the world's greatest bottles he had been fortunate enough to enjoy whilst playing. On his travels around the world, Ernie has been a great ambassador for South Africa and it was his desire that his wines do the same. The focus, discipline and commitment that Ernie displayed during his golf career were all brought to bear on his new project. Ernie chose Stellenbosch, right at the heart of South African winemaking, to create his winery and vineyards and for those of you lucky enough to visit the estate on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain you'll find it manicured to perfection, both inside and out.
Louis Strydom is the man who crafts the wines at Ernie Els Wines and, ever since the first vintage in 2000, he has been regarded as one of the finest winemakers in the Cape. Ernie's love of Bordeaux is reflected in the choice of grape varieties planted and the wines produced at his estate, but they are all stamped with the unique hallmark of South Africa.