Big Easy Chenin Blanc

Pork Chops, Savoury Soufflé, Light pasta dishes

A later winter and wetter spring shaped the 2025 vintage in the Helderberg, with rain lingering into November. While this brought early disease pressure, it also ensured ample soil moisture, driving strong canopy growth and healthy fruit set. From mid-December, conditions shifted to dry and moderate – ideal for slow, even ripening. With no heatwaves and minimal rainfall, the season delivered balanced acidity, refined tannins, and excellent flavour concentration. Cabernet Sauvignon stands out for its purity, structure, and ageing potential. An elegant expression of a quietly exceptional vintage. The Chenin Blanc was hand-harvested from vineyards nestled in the heart of the Golden Triangle within the Helderberg region of Stellenbosch. The high-potential soils support vibrant canopies, allowing the fruit to ripen fully before the peak summer heat. Two vineyard blocks contribute to this wine: the first, a 13-year-old block at 131 metres above sea level, cultivated on a VSP system, imparts fresh and fruity characteristics. The second, a 40- year-old block situated at an elevation of 380 metres, benefits from cooler conditions, lending the wine mature, straw-like notes and a lasting complexity on the palate, enhancing its overall mouthfeel.

The grapes were hand harvested in the early hours of the morning, before sorting, destemming and crushing took place. The juice was settled overnight to allow the sediment to drop. The clear juice was then racked off the next day before fermentation in stainless steel tanks could take place. Post fermentation lees contact was maintained for three months, before racking and stabilisation prior to bottling. This wine was crafted in a fresh style without any oak component.

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 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.