Elpidios, Swartland, 2021
Elpidios is the red answer to the Aristargos white blend. A Mediterranean blend comprised of 54% Grenache Noir, 31% Syrah, 13% Carignan, 1% Cinsault and 1% Pinotage. Predominantly from granitic vineyards with an average of 40% whole cluster, the wine was raised in a combination of 500L used French oak, concrete and large 4,100L foudré. It is always released after 18 months in bottle. The 2021 Elpidios is a wine of snap and crunch, allied to dark brambly fruits, cherry stones and heather. It is enticing and delicious and will improve over the next decade.
critic reviews
The Grenache-dominant 2021 Elpidios begins with a bright nose of dark cherry skin with hints of herbal elements before expressing dusty red flowers. Medium-bodied, the palate offers a savory, spiced tart plum essence before notions of potpourri spice sway with succulent acidity and fine-grained tannins. This beauty ends with a delightfully food-friendly finish that has me craving duck breast and wild game. It's the best Elpidios yet! Begin drinking in 2024.
The 2021 Elpidios contains the highest level of Grenache (54%) to lend backbone, augmented by Rhône red varieties. This is matured in 500-liter French oak and a 4,100-liter foudre for the Pinotage. Red plum, cranberry and Provençal herbs on the nose, with fennel and a touch of thyme, quite complex but backward at the moment. The medium-bodied palate has powdery tannins, good backbone and a little more grip than usual. The finish has a slight reduction with a hint of black olive on the aftertaste. Give this 3-4 years in bottle.