Waterford Estate The Jem 2017

The Jem embodies the philosophy of Waterford Estate, reflecting the diversity and unique character of South African people and Winelands. The intricacy of the nose showcases the complexity of The Jem blend, revealing clean Bordeaux-based characteristics of dark and red fruit, intertwined with herbaceous Fynbos, vanilla oak, crushed violets, and clove spice notes that enhance the complexity and allure. The palate harmoniously complements the aromatics with a well-balanced touch. Wrapped in velvety tannins that lend fullness and complemented by natural acidity, which imparts vibrancy and elegance to the enduring mineral finish. The wine presents a classic dry profile, palate generosity, and a texture that fully embodies its heritage.


variety : Cabernet Sauvignon [ 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Shiraz, 7% Merlot, 6% Mourvedre, 5% Sangiovese, 4% Cabernet franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Barbera ]
winery : Waterford Estate
winemaker : Mark Le Roux
wine of origin : Stellenbosch
analysis : alc : 14.1 % vol  rs : 1.5 g/l  pH : 3.55  ta : 5.08 g/l  
type : Red  style : Dry  body : Medium  taste : Herbaceous   wooded
pack : Bottle  size : 750ml  closure : Cork  

AWARDS
2024 Tim Atkin Report - 97 points

ageing : EVOLUTION AFTER 10 YEARS
This wine displays consistently in terms of its colour and expression, but with evolutionary notes of Cuban cigars and spiced cedar, mulberry and damson fruit leads to further exploration of the clove and pepper spice. The wine remains youthful and poised with elegant silky tannins which grip the palate.

EVOLUTION AFTER 15 YEARS
Chocolate and liquorice, with a hint of incense, and forest floor. Cherry, leather and blackberries are constant with wonderful clove and Indonesian spices. The wine remains generous and youthful, driven through the grape first, ensuring longevity and ageing potential.

Ageing potential 5 - 25 years from production

At Waterford Estate, we embrace the harmonious collaboration between nature and the delicate balance of artistry and science to create truly authentic Fine Wines. Our wines embody a profound sense of place, culture, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. With a deep-rooted belief in transcending boundaries, we craft wines that offer a sensory journey, capturing the true essence of the Helderberg Mountain’s terroir.

in the vineyard : The rich diversity of soils across the expansive 120-hectare farm has provided Waterford Estate with an exceptional opportunity to cultivate 11 distinct red varietals that are well-suited to our diverse terroir. Embracing the influence of Italian, French, and Spanish varietals, we have carefully planted these cultivars to showcase the unique character of these influential varietals.

about the harvest: In the third year of drought in the Western Cape, the impact on mountain flora and dam levels is clear. Despite modest winter rainfall, favourable conditions followed, leading to healthy vineyards and concentrated bunches. Smaller berries added to the concentration. Wines are classically styled with firm tannins and pleasing acidity. The forthcoming reds promise to be a captivating subject of discussion.

in the cellar : All the components are vinified as individual batches, with fermentation lasting around 6 months. After this stage, the blend is meticulously composed and aged together for a total of 20 months, undergoing two rackings during the maturation process. This careful approach ensures a perfectly balanced and harmonious final product.

Maturation: Aged in 225L and 300L French oak barrels, 35% new oak.

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OTHER VINTAGES

Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon