Neil Ellis releases a wine that embraces the past, present and future of the winery

Right from the start founder and winemaker Neil Ellis, who is widely respected as one of South Africa’s best winemakers, believed that no single vineyard can satisfy the needs of all grape varieties. He was a great pioneer  in seeing the winegrowing potential of different areas and each of his varieties are grown in terroir he believes they will excel in. He placed the emphasis not only on the environment but also on caring viticultural practices by a dedicated team of growers which extends through to the winemaking practices.

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 family’s commitment and passion for the wine industry and each other are reflected in the name of the wine. 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.

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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.

Only 780 numbered bottles were produced, with 600 bottles available from the cellar and at a few select specialist wine merchants. This exceptional wine don’t come cheap, but considering that it was born out of a tenacious and passionate vinous journey, the R1000 a bottle price tag is a fair price for wine with so much heart.