Neil Ellis Piekenierskloof Grenache 2016

Neil Ellis is a legend of South African winemaking and the first to gain 5 stars from the John Platter guide (the 'bible' for SA wines!) for Grenache. He made his first wine in 1984, selecting highest quality Stellenbosch grapes and renting cellar space. Today the winery is very much a family affair, with assistance from his children. They have won a huge haul of awards in the intervening years, including more 5 Stars, Golds and Trophies. This is a weighty, intense Grenache from Piekenierskloof vineyards that lie at a lofty 500m. Planted in 1964, the dry grown bush vines are all on original rootstock (very unusual). That, plus a drought vintage, all adds up to immense concentration. Aged 15 months in barrel, 25% new, this is a terrific red.