Neil Ellis was the pioneer in the Cape in the early 1980s of the Burgundian concept of the négociant winemaker (or éleveur): a winemaker without his own vineyards or winery who establishes a brand by vinifying grapes from carefully selected and nurtured sites using rented cellar space. As such, he was at the forefront of exploring and developing new viticultural terrain in the 1990s.
Vintage 36
And in recent years Neil Ellis has been building up a successful business based in its own modern winery in the heart of Stellenbosch.
After more than three decades in the business, there's little sign of slowing down. Neil’s still looking at the bigger picture, forging ahead, seeing avenues of improvement in the industry he loves.
That's why, right now, he’d rather talk about a project close to his heart that has nothing to do with Neil Ellis Wines: he's been quietly involved set up the new Institute of Viticulture and Oenology.
Formally established in 2012, it's a joint venture by the South African wine and table industries and Stellenbosch University. The aim is to promote world-class teaching, research and technology transfer.
Based at the university, it will coordinate relevant teaching and training by local educational institutions with local and international input from industry partners, government and the private sector.
‘It’s a grass-roots initiative, coming from winemakers who've been in the game for several decades. There was concern that the industry - educators, researchers, management, viticulturists, winemakers, marketers, vineyards workers - was not benefiting sufficient transfer of knowledge, and the right kind of knowledge, applicable and relevant to the modern world of viticulture and winemaking. That world is hugely competitive, technologically advanced, challenging and ever changing.
'Involvement in the wine world rests on a quadrant of pride, passion, vision and technological competence.'
'There are these myriad organisations and bodies, all doing their own thing. The Institute is an attempt to consolidate this pool of knowledge and transfer the necessary skills to take the industry ahead; act as a "runner" between the industry and the educational institutions.'
Grilled fresh snoek with apricot and lemon basting sauce served with sweet potato au gratin by Neil Elis paired with Neil Ellis Stellenbosch...
Neil Ellis’s marinated barbecued springbok fillet recipe paired with Neil Ellis Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon....