Region and Vineyards
The David & Nadia Elpidios Red hails from the Swartland region, a dynamic wine-producing area in the Western Cape of South Africa. Swartland is celebrated for its varied soils, warm climate, and a community of pioneering winemakers who are dedicated to producing wines that express a true sense of place. The region's rugged beauty and diverse terroirs contribute to the creation of complex and characterful wines.
The vineyards used for Elpidios are selected for their unique attributes:
- Granite soils from the Paardeberg area provide structure and minerality.
- Shale and schist soils from the eastern parts add depth and complexity.
- Clay-rich soils from the northern regions enhance richness and texture.
- Iron-rich soils from the western parts impart a distinctive earthiness.
These vineyards are home to old bush vines that have proven their resilience and ability to produce high-quality fruit, embodying the essence of Swartland viticulture.
Winemaking
The David & Nadia Elpidios Red is a blend of Grenache Noir (38%), Syrah (36%), Cinsaut (10%), Carignan (9%), and Pinotage (7%), each contributing to the wine's complexity and balance. The grapes are sourced from 12 different vineyards and harvested in 16 lots to ensure optimal ripeness and quality.
After harvest, the grapes undergo whole bunch pressing and natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. This process enhances the wine's authenticity and allows the true character of the terroir to shine through. The wine is matured in a combination of old neutral French oak barrels (500 L) and a large foudre (4,100 L) specifically for Pinotage, as well as concrete vessels for Grenache and Syrah. This vintage also includes a portion of wine that was fermented and matured in concrete, adding an additional layer of complexity.
The careful blending and long, gentle extraction process result in a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts. After bottling, the wine is aged in the bottle for 18 months before release, ensuring optimal integration and harmony of flavors.
Tasting Notes
- Color: The wine displays a deep ruby red color, indicative of its intensity and richness.
- Aroma: The nose is expressive and complex, with notes of red berries, black cherries, and subtle floral hints, underpinned by nuances of spice, earth, and a touch of oak.
- Palate: On the palate, the wine is rich and well-structured, offering flavors of ripe plum, blackberry, and raspberry, complemented by layers of spice, fine tannins, and a long, elegant finish.
Did you know?
Did you know? The name "Elpidios" is derived from the Greek word for "hope," reflecting the optimism and forward-thinking philosophy of David & Nadia in their winemaking approach. This wine is also part of the Swartland Independent Producers, a group dedicated to promoting and preserving the unique character of the Swartland region through sustainable and innovative viticulture practices.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic: The wine's rich fruit flavors and structured tannins complement the savory and aromatic elements of the lamb, while the rosemary echoes the wine's subtle herbal notes.
- Beef Bourguignon: The robust flavors and hearty texture of this classic dish pair beautifully with the wine's complexity and depth, enhancing the savory and earthy components.
- Mushroom and Truffle Risotto: The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and truffle are elevated by the wine's minerality and spice, creating a harmonious and luxurious pairing.
- Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: The wine's vibrant acidity and red fruit flavors complement the richness of the duck and the sweet-tart profile of the cherry sauce.
