Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Blend 2017

Region and Vineyards

Nestled on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch, Glenelly Estate benefits from a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The 2017 vintage saw a late but sufficiently cold winter, ensuring proper vine dormancy. A dry growing season with limited rainfall led to smaller berries and lower bunch mass, enhancing concentration while preserving elegance.

The Glenelly vineyards are planted primarily on decomposed granite soils with excellent drainage, promoting deep root penetration and balanced vine vigor. The result is a wine of expressive minerality and pronounced varietal character. The elevation and exposure to maritime breezes from False Bay contribute to optimal diurnal shifts, retaining vibrant acidity and freshness in the grapes.

Winemaking

The 2017 vintage is a meticulously assembled blend: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 12% Syrah, 7% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Grapes were hand-sorted and underwent a cold soak before spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel. Daily pump-overs during fermentation enhanced extraction, followed by 2–3 weeks of extended skin contact to deepen texture and complexity.

Malolactic fermentation occurred in French oak barrels, with the wine maturing for 18 months in the same (proportion of new oak not specified). Regular racking every four months helped develop purity and finesse. The use of Syrah in a Bordeaux-style blend adds a distinctive South African twist, contributing aromatic lift and spice.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with a ruby rim, vibrant and youthful in hue.
• Aroma: Cassis, mulberry, and black cherry dominate, underpinned by cedar, tobacco leaf, and sandalwood. Subtle hints of mocha, Christmas cake, and leather emerge with air.
• Palate: Richly textured yet restrained, showing ripe cherry and blackberry with black pepper and dried herbs. Mocha and baking spices unfold mid-palate, framed by firm tannins and a fresh, linear acidity. A long, dry finish reveals great aging potential.

Did you know?

Glenelly Estate was founded by May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Pauillac. Her vision was to bring Bordeaux winemaking expertise to the Cape, and the Estate Reserve Red is a direct homage to 18th-century claret blends.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic: Complements the wine’s earthy spice and tannic structure.
• Beef short ribs braised in red wine: Echoes the wine's dark fruit and savory depth.
• Grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze: Enhances the wine’s tertiary notes and silky texture.
• Aged cheddar or Comté cheese: Matches the wine's richness and dry finish.

History of Glenelly

Glenelly Estate was founded in 2003 by May de Lencquesaing, a Bordeaux wine icon and former owner of the esteemed Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Driven by her belief in the exceptional potential of Stellenbosch, May brought her decades of experience and a passion for winemaking to the Cape.

The estate was previously a fruit farm, but May transformed it into a world-class vineyard and winery. Under her leadership, Glenelly became known for its commitment to sustainability and producing wines that express the terroir of Simonsberg. The winery building, an architectural marvel, blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and houses state-of-the-art facilities designed to craft wines of unparalleled quality.

May de Lencquesaing’s vision was not only to create exceptional wines but also to leave a lasting legacy by fostering South Africa’s prominence in the global wine industry. Today, her family continues to oversee the estate, honoring her legacy of excellence.

Region and Vineyards

Located in the Simonsberg sub-region of Stellenbosch, Glenelly benefits from a Mediterranean climate with cooling breezes from False Bay. This unique microclimate ensures slow and even grape ripening, resulting in wines with concentration and balance.

The estate spans 128 hectares, with 65 hectares under vine, primarily planted with Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, alongside Chardonnay and Syrah. The soils are predominantly decomposed granite with clay components, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wines.

Glenelly’s sustainable vineyard practices, including cover cropping and integrated pest management, are a testament to their commitment to preserving the environment and crafting wines that embody the purity of the land.

Wine Range of Glenelly

Glenelly’s portfolio showcases both red and white wines with a focus on Bordeaux blends and Syrah. Their flagship wine, Lady May, is a Bordeaux-style blend known for its elegance, age-worthiness, and refined structure. The Glass Collection, named after May’s passion for glass art, offers varietal expressions such as Syrah, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon that are approachable yet complex.

The estate’s wines consistently receive high acclaim, reflecting Glenelly’s dedication to meticulous winemaking and the expression of Stellenbosch’s terroir.

Did you know?

May de Lencquesaing’s passion for glass art is evident throughout Glenelly Estate. The winery features a glass museum, showcasing pieces from her personal collection, including works by René Lalique and Salvador Dalí. This unique aspect of Glenelly highlights the fusion of art, history, and winemaking.