Ernie Els Wines
Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends and enduring hospitality on Ernie Els’s panoramic Helderberg estate.
Ernie Els Wines combines flagship Cabernet-led blends, panoramic Golden Triangle views, modern farmhouse dining and a Trophy Room celebrating the golfer’s career.
Overview
Ernie Els Wines occupies a commanding position in Stellenbosch’s Golden Triangle, with views towards Cape Town and Table Mountain in one direction and the Helderberg in the other.
Founded through Ernie Els’s passion for fine wine, the estate is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends. Its spacious tasting room, restaurant, cellar, Vinothèque and Trophy Room combine serious wine with generous hospitality.
A Cabernet Sauvignon Estate
The north-facing Helderberg slopes and Golden Triangle location are particularly suited to structured red wines. The flagship Signature blend is Cabernet Sauvignon led, while the wider portfolio includes Major Series, Big Easy and Proprietor’s collections.
The Winery Experience
Guests can explore a contemporary cellar with concrete tanks, amphorae and barrel maturation areas, then browse older vintages in the Vinothèque. The Trophy Room traces Ernie Els’s golfing career through original trophies, awards, photographs and memorabilia.
Restaurant and Grillworks
The restaurant serves modern farmhouse cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The tasting room also offers a seasonal Grillworks menu of fire-cooked small plates designed to accompany guided tastings.
Visiting the Estate
The tasting room opens daily, with earlier final tasting times on Sunday. Small groups are seated on a first-come basis, while groups of eight or more require advance arrangements. The winery does not admit children under twelve.
Highlights
- Flagship Cabernet-led Signature blend
- Panoramic Golden Triangle and Helderberg views
- Modern farmhouse restaurant and Grillworks
- Vinothèque with older estate vintages
- Trophy Room and original golf memorabilia
- Complimentary adult chipping-green activity
Wines Produced
Ernie Els Signature
The flagship Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux-style blend, built for depth, structure and long ageing.
Major Series Double Red
A Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend served as the estate’s welcoming introduction.
Big Easy Red Blend
An approachable red blend named for Ernie Els’s relaxed golfing nickname.
Big Easy Chenin Blanc
A bright, expressive Chenin Blanc from the popular Big Easy collection.
Big Easy Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé
A structured, refreshing Cabernet Sauvignon rosé with fragrant summer fruit.
Proprietor’s Syrah
A concentrated Syrah from the Proprietor’s collection with savoury depth and elegant tannins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ernie Els Wines famous for?
The estate is known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, panoramic Helderberg views, farmhouse dining and its connection to golfing legend Ernie Els.
What are the tasting-room hours?
The tasting room opens daily from 10:00 to 17:00. Final tastings are served at 16:00 Monday to Saturday and 15:00 Sunday.
Do I need to book a tasting?
Small groups are seated first come, first served. Groups of eight or more require advance booking and a minimum spend.
Does Ernie Els Wines have a restaurant?
Yes. The restaurant serves lunch daily and seasonal dinner from Thursday to Saturday between November and April. Bookings are essential.
Are children allowed at Ernie Els Wines?
No. The estate’s current guest policy does not permit children under twelve.
Can I see golf memorabilia?
Yes. The Trophy Room displays original trophies, awards, photographs and memorabilia from Ernie Els’s career.
How long should I spend at Ernie Els Wines?
Allow three to five hours for a guided tasting, lunch, the Trophy Room and time to enjoy the views.