Neil Ellis Rodanos 2017

The Neil Ellis Rodanos blend was Warren Ellis’s first Cape Winemakers Guild wine, made from Shiraz, Cinsault and Grenache. As the name Rodanos (Celtic) suggests, the blend is based on the grape varieties grown in the Rhône area in Southern France. The Shiraz and Cinsault are sourced from vineyards in Groenekloof, while the Grenache is from Piekenierskloof. This wine is showcasing a great blend of different varieties and vineyards, fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in French oak (50% first fill and 50% third fill) for 14 months.

In the glass, this wine has a deep red to brick colour with some deep purple hints. It is forthcoming on the nose with ripe black fruit, fresh tobacco leaves and violets coming through. The first thing that comes through in this wine is its complexity with a duel between the spices and fruit, creating a great balance on the middle palate. The spices and oak integration create a smokiness, that quickly turns into fruitiness of ripe plums, black cherries and leather. The tannins are well integrated with a good mouthfeel and a perfume finish.

This is a great blend by Neil Ellis wines. Neil Ellis’s interest in French wines is carried through by this wine, produced by his son, and therefore I consider this an apt blend for their portfolio. This wine will go very well with beef ribs on the fire, duck, oxtail or lamb chops with roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own and will benefit when opened an hour before consumption and very slightly chilled.

Producer: Neil Ellis

Variety: Shiraz 60%, Cinsault 30%, Grenache 10%

Vintage: 2017

Origin: Western Cape, South Africa (Shiraz and Cinsault from Groenekloof, Grenache from Piekenierskloof)

Winemaker: Warren Ellis

Closure: Cork

Alcohol: 14.0%

RS: 3.0g/l

Average price: R440

Rating: 95/100