Major Series Cabernet Sauvignon

Port wine braised beef short ribs. Cabernet-braised venison cheeks.

The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards grow on the warm north-facing slopes of the Helderberg region within the Stellenbosch appellation. The soils contain a high gravel content which offers rich middle palate weight giving this wine exceptional depth and fruit purity. 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.

Aged for 16 months in 300-litre French oak barrels (35% new), with a small batch of Cabernet Sauvignon (5%) matured in terracotta amphora for 10 months and another 5% spending 12 months in Stockinger foudre.

Nine Cabernet Sauvignon clones grown at the property were hand-picked, and great care was taken to ensure each block was processed separately. Whole berries were fermented in Italian Nico Velo concrete tanks to preserve freshness. Premium grapes from selected parcels within the various clonal blocks were fermented in terracotta amphorae. Intermittent pump-overs and punch downs were done to ensure that the right flavours, aromas and tannins could be extracted from the berries. All ferments were meticulously monitored to ensure an optimal balance between flavour and tannins. After primary fermentation some batches underwent extended maceration. Each clonal batch of Cabernet was micro-vinified in a mix of French oak barrels, terracotta amphorae and Stockinger foudre before final blending and bottling took place.

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.