Tim Atkin, an award-winning wine writer and British Master of Wine with over 30 years’ experience and a strong international following, awarded Franschhoek Cellar’s The Last Elephant (2018 vintage) 93 points in his 2021 Best of South Africa Report.
Now in its 9th edition, the annual report takes into account everything from climatic impact, political influence, and the devastating effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic on the local wine industry. Atkin’s reports have become a valuable benchmark for growers, producers, and consumers in the South African Wine Industry.
This latest award sees The Last Elephant, an exclusive Bordeaux-style blend made in limited quantities and selected from Franschhoek Cellar’s finest parcels, becoming a true heavyweight in the awards world. It’s a wine that has been consistently raking in awards across multiple vintages.
Some of the most notable awards include:
Just like its majestic namesake, the wine is both compelling and distinguished. It’s evocative on the nose, showing blackcurrants, red cherries, cedarwood, lead pencil and cigar box aromas. As these develop in the glass, they’re joined by raspberry, black cherry, and spice with just a hint of gaminess on the palate. The flavours of the wine are powerful but elegant, with fine tannins that continue to soften in the glass.
“We can’t wait to see what the future holds for our vintages in the making,” said Andrew Harris, DGB Marketing Director of Wine.
Whether you’re big on Bordeaux-style wine or big on award-winning wine, there is no denying it; The Last Elephant is big on both. It’s a fine wine that lives up to the mystical legacy of the gentle giants that once roamed the mountains of the Winelands.
