Big Easy Red Blend

Big Easy Red Blend

Viticulture

The Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Viognier were sourced from selected vineyard parcels on the Helderberg Mountain within the Stellenbosch appellation. The typical soils found on the Helderberg provide a rich middle-palate weight, giving the wine exceptional depth and fruit purity. With an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level together with the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean just 15 kilometres away, this extends the ripening period by up to 3 weeks resulting in lovely phenolic ripeness.

Viniculture

The grapes were harvested in the early hours of the morning when temperatures are coolest, before destalking and optical sorting took place. The Shiraz component was partially whole bunch fermented to aid with flavour complexity. The remaining whole berries were then fermented in open top tanks and terracotta amphorae, where regular pump-overs or punch-downs were performed to maintain a harmonious balance between colour, flavour, and tannin extraction from the skins. Throughout the fermentation process, close attention was paid to ensure that the natural aromas and flavours were preserved and accentuated as necessary. Following the primary fermentation stage, some vessels underwent extended maceration. Each variety was aged independently in oak barrels or amphorae, a process known as micro-vinification, before blending and bottling took place.

Big Easy Red Blend Tasting Notes

Ruby with a plum core. Lifted, joyful floral aromas; hibiscus and potpourri, then an undercurrent of Crème de Cassis; red berries and blueberries sprinkled with white pepper spice. There are fresh herbs too; bay leaf and sage taper into the scent of fresh rain. Shiraz-led the spice and silk of the cultivar unwinds into opulent tones on the palate of clove-studded plum pudding, lashings of wild purple berries along a structured backbone of cabernet. Super juicy and charged. Paper-fine tannins brush alongside a lemony, springy acidity to the finish, which is equal parts bright and appetisingly dry. Superb drinkability without sacrificing concentration.

Technical Data

Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch

60% Shiraz, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Mourvedre , 6% Viognier, 5% Grenache and 4% Cinsault

Alc 13.87% by Vol. – R.S 2.0 g/l – T.A. 5.7 g/l – pH 3.67

Aged for 12 to 14 months in older oak barrels

Big Easy Red Blend Awards

Decanter World Wine Awards – 90 Points (Silver)
Platters Wine Guide 2024 – 4 Stars

From the world-renowned Helderberg region of Stellenbosch comes an award-winning range of wines named after South African golf legend, Ernie Els, and skillfully crafted by winemaking legend, Louis Strydom.

Green Credentials

Accredited Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) estate.

To find out more about the winery click here

To see our full range of Ernie Els Wines go to our web page by clicking here

Big Easy Red Blend