2 October 2019
In
VINEYARD
Planted on the rockiest sandstone slopes of Waterford Estate in 2005.
VINTAGE
Winter was cut a little short with an early rise in temperatures, the growing season remained warm and dry bringing the harvest dates slightly forward. Moderate to cool conditions during ripening resulted in wines with expressive aromatics and flavours. Exceptional white and red wines from this vintage, very classic in style with tight dry tannin structures which make for excellent aging potential.
WINE FACTS
No new wood is used in the making of this wine. Whole berry ferments and soft extraction methods by means of only pump overs which brings out the purity in this wine.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs well with lean red meats such as venision as well as a variety of earthy components.
17 October 2019
In
VINEYARD
Sourced from single vineyard in the higher lying area of Elgin. Cooler climate with more slate, sandstone and quartz soil types which drives a more elegant style and textured wine.
VINTAGE
When compared to previous vintages, the 2017 Pinot Noir vintage has a modern edge. The drought meant that the winemaking team had more control over the growth and ripening of the vineyards, helping them to produce a fresher wine. In step with previous vintages, the 2017 wine offers floral and wild cherry notes
WINE FACTS
Bigger barrels, no new oak. The oldest barrel in the cellar is used for this wine, a barrel from 1998, Waterford Estates first vintage.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs well with delicate food styles of turkey or pork garnished with cherries and earthy components.
17 October 2019
In
VINEYARD
Mostly from a single producer in Elgin, 6 different blocks of Sauvignon blanc are used to create a various number of batches of wine to select from for the blend.
VINTAGE
Another tough vintage for South African wineries as severe drought conditions continue. Early ripening varietals more affected as they are harvested in the middle of summer, with later ones being hardier during this period. Whites and blanc de Noir have surprised with good freshness and the reds show great promise with lower alcohols.
WINE FACTS
Cool climate with more chalky soils to add texture and salinity to the Sauvignon blanc.
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese (especially goat cheese), green vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, fresh peas, artichokes), oysters, delicate fish like sole.
2 October 2019
In
BARREL AGEING
19 months, 26% new, 225L French oak barrels
VINTAGE
A vintage which will be remembered for drought and heat. Luckily for Waterford’s location on the Helderberg mountain and the near proximity to the ocean, the vineyards could cool down overnight. The lack of water resulted in light bunches with tiny berries, great for red wine colour and flavor. The heat also resulted in wines being lower in acidity. Red wines performed exceptionally well.
WINE FACTS
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most suited varietal to Waterford Estate soils, making up 35% of the total plantings. Planted predominantly on Sandstone rich soils with an upper loam layer and underlying white clay tot rap moisture.
FOOD PAIRING
With the classical earthy and savoury characteristics of the wine along with the dry tannin structure. Classical red meat dishes seasoned with cracked sea salt pair well but also pairs well with other savoury dishes.
2 October 2019
In
BARREL AGEING
9 months, 24% new oak, fermented in 300L French oak barrels
VINTAGE
A vintage which will be remembered for drought and heat. Luckily for Waterford’s location on the Helderberg mountain and the near proximity to the ocean, the vineyards could cool down over night. The lack of water resulted in light bunches with tiny berries, great for red wine colour and flavor. The heat also resulted in wines being lower in acidity.
2 October 2019
In
BARREL AGEING
19 Months, 32% new 225L French oak barrels
VINEYARD
All of the components of The Jem blend are sourced from vineyards grown on Waterford Estate. Of the 120-hectare property, 48 hectares of vineyards stretch throughout, offering several distinct soil composition and varietal choices. The combination of extreme mountainous terrain (Stellenbosch/ Helderberg) combined with proximity to two oceans provides a warm region by day but a uniquely cool climate by night.
VINTAGE
Waterford experienced a good long winter, with late rains and cold that delayed pruning. Great windless conditions experienced during flowering resulted in a high-yielding vintage. February temperatures were extremely hot, pushing ripening and making for a quick harvest (especially for white wines). We had the highest recorded tonnages for Waterford Estate to date.
18 October 2019
In
VINTAGE REVIEW 2018
A vintage which will be remembered for drought and heat. Luckily for Waterford’s location on the Helderberg mountain and the near proximity to the ocean, the vineyards could cool down overnight. The lack of water resulted in light bunches with tiny berries, great for red wine colour and flavor.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
Pork, rich fish (salmon, tuna etc), vegetarian, poultry.
