NEIL ELLIS BOTTELARY HILLS PINOTAGE – 6 x 750ml

ORIGIN

Just outside Stellenbosch lies the rolling hills of the Bottelary region, creating a unique terrain for the cultivation of Pinotage. Well-established 25-year-old bush vine vineyards with access to supplementary irrigation. South-west facing slopes and grown on decomposed granite.

WINEMAKING

Harvest commenced on the 20th of February. Grapes were harvested at 25°B with a total acid of 7.5 g/ℓ and a pH of 3.3. Yield: 4 tons/ha.

Fermentation initiated in stainless steel tanks. Whole berry ferment underwent a series of light pump overs and punching after which the wine was racked off to barrel to complete alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrels.

This wine spent 14 months in 50% new French oak barrels, the balance in 2nd fill and Neutral barrels.

WINEMAKER NOTES

Deep dark colour. This wine shows notes of dark plum and black berries with herbal notes of thyme lingering in the background. Black fruit enters the palate with freshness flowing into fine, chalky tannins on the mid palate.

FOOD PAIRING

Venison, oxtail and chocolate dessert.