Ernie Els Signature is the flagship red at Ernie Els and doubles as one of South Africa’s strongest bordeaux blends. Produced from prime vineyards in the Helderberg appellation of Stellenbosch, the Ernie Els Signature 2016 vintage is made up of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. Notes of menthol and a touch of eucalyptus adds a fresh counter point to the dark brooding fruit, typical of this vintage. Warm oak notes add gravitas and a luxurious attraction to the nose. It leads to a palate that teams with rich fruit and notes of cherry tobacco, with a further herbal edge and grippy lead pencil on the finish.

A touch leaner than other vintages, the wine is nonetheless sumptuous, with dry defined tannins and a silky yet serious end. It will require a year or so for the lick of oak to amalgamate.

Includes a gift box

Decanter World Wine Awards 2022: Silver Medal
Tim Atkin MW Special South Africa Report 2021: 93 points
Platter’s Wine Guide 2023: 4.5 stars (93 points)