He has journeyed
from pioneering négociant beginnings in the early 1980’s, seeking out parcels
of interesting vines to make exceptional wines under his own name, to a well
established family enterprise with a local and international reputation for
exceptional elegance and quality. Today the journey of Neil Ellis Wines is not
only about Neil Ellis. After 40 years of making wine, the next stage of the
journey has begun with Neil’s son, Warren, sharing responsibilities as
winemaker and viticulturist.
The newly-launched Webb
Ellis wine bridges their way going forward, embracing the past, the present and
the future. The wine is symbolic of the sharing of knowledge and wisdom from
generation to generation, marrying traditional methods with new techniques, and
embodying a spirit of innovation, open mindedness and joint respect.
The wine takes its name from the Ellis and Webb families: Neil’s wife
Stephanie’s maiden name is Webb. It honours the journey of Neil Ellis Wines
from a solo venture to a highly reputed family business. Stephanie is, and always
has been, the pillar of strength in the background, and all three of Neil and
Stephanie’s children play an important role in the business: Warren, who
graduated in viticulture and oenology and has a MSc in viticulture, is
responsible for the vines and winemaking, Charl heads the financial team
while Margot looks after the brand and marketing. Neil
is the indispensable mentor, guiding career paths and ensuring that the family
takes Neil Ellis Wines to the next level.
The Webb
Ellis wine
is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Jonkershoek Valley and 35% Syrah
from Groenekloof in Darling. This wine
spent 20 months in French oak barrels: 80% 1st fill, the balance in 2nd and 3rd
fill barrels.
“These varietals have a wonderful affinity,” says Warren. “They are perfect
partners; both components very generous and showing their best, but neither one
dominating. The Shiraz greets you upfront followed by the Cabernet on the mid-
and back palate.” Only 780 numbered bottles were produced, with 600 bottles
available from the cellar and at a few select specialist wine merchants. Retailing
at R1000, a fair price for an exceptional wine with so much
heart, this wine was born out of a tenacious and passionate vinous journey. A wine
of integrity, produced from vulnerable single vineyards, it will only be produced
in perfect vintages and the blend will not be cast in stone.
Webb Ellis Tasting notes
Colour: Deep dense earthy red.
Nose: The aromatics proclaim red and dark fruits with
notes of red liquorice and black olives noticeable.
Palate: The palate is seamless, sophisticated and
stylish. Combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of
Syrah, the Webb Ellis exemplifies the judicious balance of fruit and oak.
Tight, focussed and poised - a multi-dimensional continuum.
Peak drinking: This classically structured, beautifully
balanced wine has all the finesse and integrity to develop and evolve with
careful cellaring. 2015 - 2025