Modern, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts, Jewellery and Wine
Online-Only Auction, 15 - 22 February 2021
Wine Rhône Theme
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About this Item
Neil Ellis pioneered the négotiant, or non-estate, concept of sourcing grapes from growers all over the Cape and producing wine from the early 70s and, today, has become a pillar and legend of the local industry. Neil’s vision has always been to ‘make distinctive, refined wines that are expressive of their terrain and rank amongst South Africa’s finest’ and, with more than three decades of Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon production under his belt, there are not many who could do it any better.
The Terrain Specific range is an expression of this vision. The mountain vineyards of the ward of Piekenierskloof, sourced from dry land bush vines, are known to produce the best Grenache expressions in the country. The vineyard that Neil sources from was planted in 1964 on their own roots, un-grafted and still completely disease-free.
Critics Ratings
Neil Ellis Vineyard Selection Piekenierskloof Grenache 2011
'Alluringly fragrant & expressive 2011 (92 pts) is from low-yield old Piekenierskloof vines. Composed yet intense, shows real presence. Lovely fruit purity woven into a silky & seamless structure. One to savour over the next 4-6 years.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide, 4.5*
‘Why don’t more people make varietal Grenaches, given that the variety appears to be so well suited to the Cape? This comes from old vines planted in sandy soils and it’s a belter of a wine: scented, silky and refined, with sweet red fruits and dried herbs. Truly the Pinot Noir of the south. Drink 2015-19.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2015, 93/100
‘The mulled cherry and plum fruit is woven with black tea, shiso leaf and white pepper notes, all gliding through a silky finish. Lively, blood orange—edged acidity keeps this fresh despite the extra bottle age.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 92/100 (Sep 2016)
Neil Ellis Vineyard Selection Piekenierskloof Grenache 2012Perhaps the most successful of the non-Bordeaux varieties here. Beguiling fragrance & charming, expressive flavours on 2012, allied with power (14.5% alcohol), intensity & serious structure intended for ageability - big dry tannins do need time. 20% new oak well used.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide, 4.5*
‘Raspberry, strawberry, a not unpleasant hint of reduction and attractive oak spice. Perfectly delineated fruit, lip-smacking acidity and fine-grained, spicy tannins. A wine of great composure – almost impossible to resist now but should bring at least five years of further drinking pleasure.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100
‘Piekenierskloof has established itself as a special spot for Grenache, thanks to a combination of altitude, old vines and talented winemaking. This is a subtle, elegant, floral, red-fruited expression of the grape that carries its warming alcohol lightly. The pomegranate-like acidity drives the finish. Drink 2016-20.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2016, 93/100
Neil Ellis Vineyard Selection Piekenierskloof Grenache 2013
'Neil Ellis is one of the pioneers of Piekenierskloof Grenache - this is the tenth vintage -making a wine that is charming, but also focused and refreshing. Sweet spices, red berry fruit, svelte tannins and a backdrop of classy oak. Delicious. Drink 2017-23.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2017, 93/100
‘Bright medium red. Captivating, tangy scents of raspberry, cherry, pepper, exotic spices and rose petal. Supple, silky and concentrated; quite substantial for Grenache but fine-grained and perfumed in the mouth, with the floral quality carrying through. Scented flavors of raspberry, spices and herbs lead to a fine-grained, softy tannic finish. A brilliant South African Grenache with definition, precision, floral lift and length--and although obviously a ripe, rich style, showing little sign of heat. Some new oak is apparent throughout but it's in harmony with the wine's rich fruit.’ – Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 92/100 (May 2017)
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