The 2017 Big Easy is arguably the most serious and riveting vintage yet. The dry vintage was conducive to producing a superbly concentrated, beguiling wine that dazzles the senses. It is a shade darker with a black core, offering a brooding nose that takes time to unfold. Complexity is revealed with elegantly ripe blackberry, liquorice, fine Chinese spice and smoked herbs. A majority of Shiraz cloaks the palate with fruit-laden tannins, covered in melted milk chocolate and morello cherries. 20% Cabernet sauvignon adds a backbone of minerality and definition, while equal parts of Cinsault, Mourvedre, Grenache and Viognier add a Mediterranean feel. As the name implies, this wine is easy on the palate, yet also remarkably audacious in flavour. The nose is overwhelmed with ripe red and purple fruits with added nuances of boiled sweets and rose petals. Comforting roasted coffee and milk chocolate flavours delight the palate and contrast the juicy, spicy notes from the Shiraz. The smattering of Rhône varieties lend a dried herb tinge to the finish. Enjoy the Ernie Els Wines Big Easy Red within 5 years of vintage.
