Wines Unspecified Neil Ellis - Grenache Piekenierskloof - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The Neil Ellis Grenache Piekenierskloof 2020 is a compelling expression of South African red wine, crafted from the Grenache grape variety sourced from the renowned Piekenierskloof area within the Olifants River region. The 2020 vintage benefited from benign weather, giving the grapes an optimal ripening period and maintaining a beautiful clarity of fruit character. Grenache from this terroir is known for its vibrant red fruit, subtle spicy undertones, and refined tannic structure. Vinification typically honours the grape’s aromatic potential, with gentle extraction to preserve brightness and texture, often with minimal intervention to showcase terroir and varietal typicity.

The Olifants region in the Western Cape is distinctive, marked by semi-arid conditions, ample sunlight, and cooling breezes from the Atlantic. Soils here are primarily sandy with decomposed sandstone, ideal for Grenache which thrives on good drainage and modest fertility. The combination of warm days and cool nights allows for expressive fruit profiles and balanced natural acidity. Piekenierskloof is especially celebrated for nurturing old bush vines, producing grapes of notable concentration and finesse. The history of winemaking in the Olifants spans centuries, but in recent decades quality-focused producers like Neil Ellis have brought international acclaim to the area.

For food pairings, the approachable yet spicy nature of this Grenache suits a variety of dishes. Consider grilled lamb cutlets or spiced beef kebabs for meat options—the wine’s fresh berry notes and gentle spice will interact beautifully with roasted and charred flavours. For regional authenticity, try South African bobotie, where the subtle curry spices and savoury meat filling complement the Grenache’s warmth. If you prefer vegetarian cuisine, a lentil and aubergine moussaka or roasted vegetable gratin will work splendidly.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a cool room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for half an hour can help reveal more aromatic complexity. Enjoy it now for its youthful charm or let it evolve over 4 to 6 years for greater depth.