Cinsault Short Left Neil Ellis 2021

Cinsault Short Left Neil Ellis 2021

"Short Left" presents itself with a deep ruby ​​red hue and an aroma of red berries with subtle spices. The palate is well-structured with hints of vanilla and toasted almonds, developing into sweet fruit notes such as raspberries, cranberries and wild blackberries. The wine is full-bodied and charming, with a dry and sharp finish supported by solid tannins, giving it good aging potential.

It is ideal for serving with chicken or duck stews, especially those with Asian inspiration, as well as dishes with veal, pork or lamb. It also goes well with pasta or risotto dishes and homemade burgers.

The Western Cape is a large wine region that encompasses all of the wine regions of southwestern South Africa, including the Olifants River Valley and Coastal Region on the west coast, the Breede River Valley, the Overberg on the south coast, and the Klein Karoo to the east. This appellation is used by winemakers who blend wines from different districts such as Stellenbosch, Elgin, and Groenekloof.

The region offers a wide range of soils, climates and landscapes, from valleys to hillsides. White wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling are produced here, as well as rosé and red wines of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wines of the Western Cape reflect a harmonious blend of different styles and grape varieties, making the role of the winemaker crucial to quality.

Neil Ellis Wines was established in 1993 by Neil Ellis and Hans Peter Schroder, two of South Africa's most influential wine personalities. Neil Ellis, one of the country's most renowned winemakers, began his career at KWV and later became responsible for Groot Constantia Estate.

Originally, Neil Ellis Wines was located on the Oude Nektar estate in Jonkershoek near Stellenbosch. As the growing area expanded to other prime districts in South Africa, the space at Oude Nektar became too small. With Neil Ellis' children, Warren, Charl and Margot, as Chief Winemaker/Director, Commercial Director and Brand Manager respectively, the family decided to build a new, modern winery at Helshoogte Pass on the outskirts of Stellenbosch and end the partnership with Hans Peter Schroder.

Today, Neil Ellis Wines has vineyards in the Jonkershoek Valley, Groenekloof (near the Darling Hills on South Africa's cool west coast), Elgin (called South Africa's Burgundy) and Piekenierskloof (in the southern Olifants River in the Western Cape). This diversity contributes to the unique balance of strength and elegance in Neil Ellis' wines, now led by his son Warren Ellis.

Neil Ellis is known for his innovative approach to winemaking, and "Short Left" is no exception. This wine is made from 100% Cinsaut grapes grown in the Western Cape, including the Darling Hills. The soil of crumbling granite, sandstone and clay creates ideal conditions for both Shiraz and Cinsaut. The vines, which are around 20 years old and grown as bush vines at an altitude of 250-300 meters, benefit from cool nights and southwest-facing plots, ensuring wines with good aroma and finesse.