“Wine is sunlight, held together by water” – Galileo Galilei
Wine, a cultural symbol of fellowship and abundance, and an industry with a rich history in South Africa, forms a fundamental part of who we are at Ellerman House. Much of the experience here is given over to this “bottled poetry”, making the creation of our own unique blend a natural extension of our desire to celebrate everything that this remarkable country has to offer.
Now in its second year of production and newly released, The Ellerman 2019 joins the previous vintage – awarded 5 Stars by the renowned Platter’s Wine Guide for 2021 – in our extensive, 10,000-bottle collection of South Africa’s finest labels. Arguably the most significant private collection in the country, it includes many rare or special releases, as well as sought-after vintages bought at private auction.
The wine was once again crafted in collaboration with Erika Obermeyer; a talented and award-winning winemaker with an emerging label of her own, and a woman who shares our passion for showcasing the beauty, bounty and diversity of South Africa. She famously defines a great wine as one which “tells a story of a time, a place and a maker” – something which could not be truer about The Ellerman 2019.
The spectacular location of Ellerman House, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from the foot of Lion’s Head, and standing sentinel over Bantry Bay for nearly 30 years, is undoubtedly part of the property’s enduring allure. In addition to its place, the hotel also forms part of the tapestry of Cape Town’s history and the unfolding of its story as a modern African city – its time. Together with maker Erika, we share a deep love for our country and a commitment to shining a spotlight on its heritage and culture; elements which combine to form the perfectly balanced blend in every bottle of The Ellerman.
Comprising 61% Syrah, 21% Grenache Noir and 15% Cinsault, this elegant fusion of varietals in the 2019 vintage is finished with 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, which lends the wine structure without dominating the blend. The terroir of these grapes, all sourced from the Western Cape, provide the wine with added depth and context; established vineyards planted on decomposed granite soils and old bush vines growing out of shale and pockets of schist produce berries that give the wine a unique and moreish character.
Every bottle is expertly crafted with the best expression of this terroir in mind, revealing the remarkable fruit intensity and perfume, freshness and elegance of these distinctive varietals. Multi-dimensional and multi-layered, the palate delivers a textured mouthfeel with silky smooth tannins and a fresh and satisfying finish. Warm and approachable while being deceptively complex – just like its namesake – The Ellerman is a truly world-class wine that perfectly captures our beloved house on the hill.
