Waterford Estate, Antigo 2021

Description

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

A World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Champion and accredited Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) estate, Waterford also has Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association (WIETA) accreditation and is a member of the Biodiversity in Wine Initiative (BWI).

VINTAGE REVIEW 2021
The 2021 vintage witnessed both high heat and substantial rainfall. The rain provided essential nutrients for a healthy crop, while the heat contributed to excellent fruit structure and ripeness. However, harvesting our late-ripening varietals proved challenging due to excessive rainfall. Precision in choosing the harvest time was critical to ensure optimal grape concentration.

CULTIVARS
88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot

VINEYARD
The Cabernet Sauvignon is grown on the red clay soils on the eastern side of Waterford Estate. This site allows for comfortable growing conditions leading to fruit which is plush and fruit-forward with soft gentle tannins.

VINIFICATION
The grapes are hand-harvested, destemmed but not crushed. After sorting, the whole berries ferment in vessels for about 18 days. Following fermentation, the wine is pressed and moved to selected French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. The blend is created during the first racking (at 6 months), with two more rackings during ageing to assess oak influence before bottling.

MATURATION
20 months in 100% French oak barrels of which 25% are new.

TASTING NOTE
ON RELEASE (Date tasted: March 2024):
The Waterford Antigo is a tribute to the red clay-based soils on the estate. It boasts plush red currants, subtle tobacco, and creamy oak sweetness on the nose. The palate mirrors the generous nose, with acidity balancing the exceptional structure, a characteristic of all Helderberg-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. Gentle tannins provide a base for the decadent red fruit, leading to a lingering textured finish.
EVOLUTION AFTER 5 YEARS
Ageing is evident in the colour shift, as red mellows to brown at the edges. The smooth tannins and balancing acidity further integrate into the wine as the vibrant fruit character turns to a mature dried fruit quality. This homogenisation contributes to a lasting, fruit-driven finish with a mineral edge. With each sip, the wine unfolds a tapestry of flavours, leaving a memorable impression on the palate.

AGEING POTENTIAL
5 – 15 years from production

PAIRING SUGGESTION
A delicious hearty dish pairs perfectly with this wine. The plush red fruit notes will beautifully complement meaty casseroles and a roast leg of lamb, enhancing the savory flavours of the meal with its elegance.

WINE ANALYSIS
Alc 13.3%
TA 5.62 g/L
RS 2.05 g/L
pH 3.59

Additional information

A delicious hearty dish pairs perfectly with this wine. The plush red fruit notes will beautifully complement meaty casseroles and a roast leg of lamb, enhancing the savory flavours of the meal with its elegance.