Situated on the Agulhas Plain at the tip of Africa, the charming little village of Elim has fascinated De Grendel winemaker, Charles Hopkins, since 1994 and it is the potential of the area that drew him in.
To the incredible benefit of De Grendel Loyalty Club members, Charles’ unique relationship with the Elim area has now resulted in the exclusive release of the new De Grendel Elim Shiraz 2016.
The Shiraz wine has a few different styles, but only a handful of areas in South Africa produce a style that falls into the black pepper category – known amongst winemakers as rotundone. This unique flavour of black pepper is well-known to be one of the most sought after styles in Shiraz, with many winemakers being unable to put their finger on what exactly it is that produces this flavour.
Much to his delight, Charles has found that the Elim area has been most consistent in producing this alluring flavour. The De Grendel Elim Shiraz is a deep garnet purple in colour, enigmatically striking nuances of black pepper, clove and liquorice waft from the glass, only to be superseded by generous aromas of sweet berry fruit, pomegranate and red cherry. These flavours follow through voluptuously onto the palate with a sweet fruit entry that evolves into luscious red plum with an exceptionally elegant chocolaty tannin balance. It finishes effortlessly with subtle hints of mulberry and lingering spice.
Grapes were bought from Elim and crushed in an open fermenter. A “punch down” method is used so as to extract as much as possible, and the wine is then matured for 12 months in 2nd and 3rd fill barrels. Only 1500 magnums (1.5l) will be produced and sold.
The De Grendel Elim Shiraz will only be available to De Grendel Loyalty Club members via the De Grendel online shop and from the estate, allowing them to exclusively enjoy Charles’ new pride and joy. The De Grendel Amandelboord Pinotage, previously exclusive to members, will now be produced in bigger volumes and be available to the general public.
