NEIL ELLIS JONKERSHOEK CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016

2019 Tim Atkin’s South Africa Special Report – 93 points
Veritas – Double Gold

In an effort to identify the best possible site for Cabernet Sauvignon, this signature Cabernet Sauvignon is a top-performing wine in Stellenbosch. Its distinctive style, with all the hallmarks of the Jonkershoek Valley, represents a balance of elegance and power. The nose shows restraint with deep underlying aromas of complex blue and black berry perfumes with a fresh palate followed by fine, smooth tannins.

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

2015 winter was the first year of the drought in the Western Cape of South Africa followed by a relatively warm and dry summer. We had early budding which resulted in an early harvest season. During ripening the days were moderate to warm followed by cool evenings. Grapes were harvested at 25.8°B with a total acid of 7.5 g/l and a pH of 3.4

Fermentation is initiated in stainless steel tanks. The crushed grapes underwent a series of pump overs until dry. Further maceration is allowed before drawing off and light pressing. Malolactic fermentation was completed in new French oak barrels. This wine spent 18 months in 100% new French oak barrels.

Bottled in December 2016.

These limited release wines demonstrate the distinctiveness of specific vineyard sites and represent our finest quality. The Jonkershoek Valley and more specifically the south facing slopes are of the coolest sites in Stellenbosch.