CWG Neil Ellis Cape Winemakers Guild The Designate 2013

Neil Ellis Cape Winemakers Guild The Designate 2013 is a sophisticated and nuanced red wine from the renowned Stellenbosch region of South Africa, created especially for the Cape Winemakers Guild auction. This wine highlights Neil Ellis' commitment to showcasing the region's unique terroir and high quality.

Grape composition

The wine consists of a carefully selected blend of:

• 85% Cabernet Sauvignon – grown in the Jonkershoek Valley, an area known for its ideal terroir for Cabernet.
• 15% Tempranillo – from Bottelary Hills, where cool winds from False Bay contribute to the character of the grapes.

Production

The grapes are carefully handpicked and vinified separately to ensure the best flavour development. After fermentation, the wine was matured for 18 months in French oak barrels, adding depth and finesse.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Delicate aromas of ripe red and black berries, blackcurrants and hints of violets, tobacco and spices.
• Palate: The wine is well-structured with layers of dark fruit such as blackcurrant and cherry, complemented by notes of licorice, spices and a light oak nuance.
• Finish: Long and persistent with silky tannins and a fresh mineral note.

Storage potential

With excellent aging potential, the wine is expected to develop further until 2029, but it can also be enjoyed now for its fresh youthfulness and intense fruit.

Alcohol and analysis

• Alcohol percentage: 14.5%
• Residual sugar: 2.4 g/l
• Total acidity: 5.3 g/l
• pH: 3.63

Production and exclusivity

With only 106 cases produced, this wine is extremely rare and sought after among wine enthusiasts and collectors.

Conclusion

Neil Ellis Cape Winemakers Guild The Designate 2013 is an excellent example of a modern Bordeaux blend with a South African twist. It combines structure, elegance and intensity, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a wine with both complexity and the ability to age gracefully.