I love spontaneous afternoons. I originally had plans but they fell through, meaning my afternoon was suddenly free. I’d also finished all my work, so I could happily go along, guilt free.

Sox and his good friend, Rhodri out from the UK, decided it would be a good idea to drive out to Stellenbosch and visit Ernie Els’ Wine Estate.

That morning I had decided to switch out my beloved jeans and boots for a summer dress I teamed with tights and my leather jacket. I don’t know why I thought it was warm enough because later on I was quite chilly.

Mix of Retailers: Jacket from Foschini, Mr. Price Dress, Tights from Edgars and Woolworths pumps

Sadly though, I obviously don’t do this girl-thing very well and within hours of wearing these tights, I had hooked them.

After a chilled drive out into the wintery country side, we meandered up towards the Ernie Els Estate, which overlooks the mountains and vineyards.

Inside, a fire place was going with the biggest bottle of Ernie Els wine I’ve ever seen.

In this room, there are photos of Ernie Els and several of his golfing trophies.

We were taken on a tour by Wine Maker, Louis Strydom and learned about how a certain amount of wine evaporates out of the Oak Barrels. They call it the Angel Share – wine that evaporates into the atmosphere for the Angels to enjoy.

Isn’t that lovely?

Down in the wine cellar, there are several bottles from the various collections and years.

Louis chose a bottle of the 2008 Signature for us to enjoy. What a wine!

We tried several wines… Everything from the Big Easy to the Proprietors Blend. Each one as delicious as the next. I absolutely loved sipping on them and felt it was sacrilege to throw it out, as the next bottle came through for us to taste. Louis took us through each sip and it was amazing to taste and smell the flavours.

On our way back we stopped to take photos of the glass-like lake and it’s pretty reflections… Oh and some selfies. Obviously.

I really am enjoying red wine far more than I ever have. Perhaps my palate is changing (ahem, maturing) or perhaps it’s just the Winter cold.

Are you a red or a white wine person?