The Ernie Els winery was originally set up by Ernie Els (the golfer!) as he loves good red wine.  He formed a  partnership with Jean Engelbrecht of Vrede en Lust  in 1999 and set up the winery in Stellenbosch (they also jointly own Guardian Peak winery too). They made just three red wines initially with a firm focus on quality. They employed Louis Strydom as their winemaker. A natural expansion was their “Big Easy” restaurant on site, which has subsequently expanded and opened more branches in Dubai and Mauritius with more to come. They have now expanded the wine range to 6 reds, all of which are excellent. Ernie and Jean have now gone their separate ways to develop their own brands further. Ernie now combines the wine experience with golfing holidays and safaris for any of you who fancy it! 

What’s it like?

Ernie Els Proprietor’s Syrah 2009 is a delicious, big powerful wine. It’s produced in very low quantities and everything is done by hand. Purple in colour with huge legs and strong red fruits on the nose. Strong fruit flavours on the palate, full bodied with a great overall balance – the trademark of all their wines. It’s very rich, and smooth with savoury flavours and a long dry finish. John Platter awarded it 4 stars. It’s a delicious wine but will also reward cellaring as it will continue to improve for several years.

How much? Where from?

Ernie Els Proprietor’s Syrah 2009 is available from a handful of good retailers, the cheapest of which is www.goodwineonline.co.uk at £19.90