2004 Ernie Els Stellenbosch Red Blend

Stephen Tanzer
"93 pts ... A Bordeaux blend based on 62% Cabernet Sauvignon. Saturated ruby. Classic cabernet aromas of cassis, licorice, minerals, cedar and tobacco. Rich, sweet and pliant; stuffed with dark berry, spicecake and mineral flavors. A large-scaled, wonderfully ripe wine with terrific inner-mouth energy, solid structure and impressive building persistence. One of South Africa's elite Bordeaux blends."

Wine Enthusiast
"94 pts ... 'Editor's Choice' A subdued, classic spice nose leads this impressive Bordeaux blend from powerhouse producer Ernie Els. The wine is structured but soft, vibrant but restrained—in short, an exceptional balance of leathery spice, plum and blackberry juiciness and delicate minerality. Very pretty but with a backbone, this wine can age for added elegance."

Wine Spectator
"91 pts ... Well-built, with black currant, bacon, grilled herb, tobacco and fig flavors supported by a good firm structure underneath. Excellent length, with the fruit and spice delivering another wave on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2009."

Winemaker's Notes
"Fruit driven with a combination of red currant, cassis, and plum fruits. The fruit is supported by violets, with hints of vanilla and spice. Well-built, with black currant, herb, tobacco and fig flavors."

Technical Notes
"The different clones are kept separate throughout vinification. This wine is made in a full robust style and has the potential to age. Aged in French Oak barrels for 20 months. Bottle-aged for an additional 18 months. Acid 6.02 g/L; p.H. 3.66. 14% alc."