The Big Easy Tee’s off in the Vineyard

ERNIE ELS WINES
Monday 11 September 2017
http://www.ernieelswines.com/
https://www.vineyard.co.za/

Experience: 4/5
Wines: 4/5

It was a Par 3 course at the Vineyard Hotel for the Monday evening tasting. Jared brought the 3 wines that make up the Varietal Range. I had not tasted Ernie Els wines before nor visited the estate and so valued Brand Ambassador Jared as my caddy.

The first wine was a delicious Sauvignon Blanc that was great value for R85. I had expected it to cost more. Made in the fruitier style, aromas of melon, litchi, lime and gooseberry filled the glass. They fruit salad flavours softened on the palate to give a clean and bright yet elegant feel on the palate. This win is a winner and definitely 1 under par for me.

The Merlot was also juicy and fruity. It showed classic Merlot blackcurrant, mulberry and cedar flavours and with a hint of earthiness. I liked the complexity and intensity. The smooth mouthfeel was slightly let down by a slightly bitter aftertaste. This will however improve with keeping. A par wine for me.

Full in body and deep ruby in colour, the Cabernet Sauvignon offered less complexity on the nose than it promised. I detected cassis and blackberry notes but not so much more. The fruitiness did not hold firm on the palate as sharp tannins overpowered. It needs to age for another 2 to 5 years. I scored it 1 over par.

In sum, this was a short but no less enjoyable tasting, as is any Par 3 course. I ended on level par which is always a good sign. I shall enjoy a visit for the full course. This tasting has given me the reason and the excuse to do so.

Wines tasted (bought *):         

White:

2016 Varietal Sauvignon Blanc – R85 FAVOURITE WINE

Red:

2015 Varietal Merlot – R155
2015 Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon – R160