2004 Neil Ellis Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Select

Stephen Tanzer
"91(+?) pts ... Bright ruby-red. Sappy aromas of currant, minerals and licorice. Densely packed, vibrant and fine-grained but quite youthfully backward. Brisk acidity gives this pure, classic cabernet a penetrating character. Finishes with broad, fine tannins and a distinct spice character. Wonderfully balanced, structured cabernet, but give this plenty of air if you plan to open it anytime soon. Ten percent of shiraz from the 2005 vintage was blended in after the wine had spent 18 months in oak." --03/07

John Platter
"5/5 Stars ... engagingly modern, demonstrative but not showy cab aromas; quite tight, minerally structure in harmony with more delicate fruit. Spicy note from beautifully absorbed 22 mths Fr oak."

Winemaker's Notes
"Deep red, purple in colour, the wine has high-toned blackcurrant, violet and cedar aromas with touches of mint, so typical of a Jonkershoek wine. A rich, ripe opulent but youthful palate has plummy fruit, a background of new oak and fine tannins. This is a multifaceted wine that needs time to mature."

Technical Notes
"Fermentation initiated in stainless steel tanks and underwent a series of pump overs until dry. Further maceration allowed before drawing off and light pressing. This wine spent 22 months in French oak barrels of which 100% was new. Acid 5.9 g/L; p.H. 3.68; residual sugar 1.2 g/L. 14% alc."