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The first release in our 10-Year Program, this wine is a testament to our commitment to quality, precision, and time-honoured winemaking traditions.
Crafted from property-grown Bordeaux varietals, the 2015 Signature is a true reflection of the unique terroir of the Helderberg slopes. With its ample structure, depth, and exceptional ageing potential, this vintage has evolved beautifully over the past decade, showcasing remarkable elegance and complexity.
Limited stock available
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.
The grapes are hand-harvesting in the cool of the early morning. Whole berries are fermented in open top tanks and barrels with intermittent pump-overs and punch-downs to ensure a balance between flavour, colour and tannin extraction from the skins. All ferments are meticulously monitored to ensure that all the natural aromas and flavours are preserved. After primary fermentation, some tanks will undergo extended maceration. Each variety is matured separately in oak before final blending.
Fruit cake plus a melange of dried fruits, plums, mince pie, cocoa dust, vanilla, prunes. The dark, ripe and poised fruit is fleshed out with sandalwood, musk, perfume, violets and a faint savoury edge. Secondary aromas of leather, tobacco, cigar, pipe tobacco and charcoal counter the dense cherry-cola fruit purity. Serious and layered with elements of fynbos to add lift to a firm palate that is salty lined with melding fruit tannins evolving with a long and delicious finish. It’s full-bodied, classic, dry and long ending. In a word: powerful.
Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch
Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot 25%, Cabernet Franc 5%, Malbec 5% & Petit Verdot 5%
Alc 14.72% by Vol. – R.S. 3.3 g/l – T.A. 5.9 g/l – pH 3.51
Aged for 20 months in 300 litre French Oak Barrels (70% new)
Tim Atkin - 94 Points
Platters Wine Guide 2024 - 5 Stars
Winemag Cape Bordeaux Report - Top 10 (93 Points)
