Waterford Estate, Chardonnay Single Vineyard 2021

Description

PHILOSOPHY
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.

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.

VINEYARD
Planted in 1988, the Chardonnay vineyard at Waterford Estate is one of South Africa’s oldest Chardonnay blocks, making it the third-oldest certified Chardonnay vineyard in the country. It is the only white varietal planted on the estate and occupies the coolest site on the farm. The red clay and granite soil are very well suited for this vineyard.  In 2023, this vineyard was officially recognised as a Heritage Vineyard by the Old Vine Project, marking its 35-year milestone and reinforcing its significance in the evolution of South African Chardonnay.

VINIFICATION
The bunches are hand-harvested and gently whole-bunch pressed in the cellar. This single vineyard requires approximately 8 different pickings to complete the block. The juice is settled overnight. The clear juice is then racked into 300L lightly toasted French oak barrels (8% new) for fermentation, including malolactic fermentation. After four months, the individual batches are evaluated and blended together before undergoing an additional seven months of ageing.

TASTING NOTE
ON RELEASE (Date tasted: March 2024)
The 2021 Chardonnay shows a pale gold signifying the youth of the wine. The nose showcases delicate yellow fruit, brioche, and a subtle toasty character all underpinned by the telltale citrus blossom of our Chardonnay. The wine is textured and elegant, with the minerality that adds balance and intrigue. The palate expresses a toasty oak character and nectarine fruit adding to balance and complexity.
EVOLUTION AFTER 5 YEARS
As the fruit notes mature and integrate with the oak, you’ll notice the emergence of a delightful nutty and brioche undertone.
EVOLUTION AFTER 10 YEARS
The nose exhibits tertiary characteristics such as nuttiness, while the acidity transitions from vibrant fruitiness to a rounded mouthfeel, expressing Waterford Estate’s distinctive minerality.

AGEING POTENTIAL
8 – 10+ years from production

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
Pairs exceptionally well with cream and butter-based dishes, complementing and enhancing the wine’s texture and mouthfeel.

WINE ANALYSIS
Alc 12.25%
TA 4.59 g/L
RS 1.82 g/L
pH 3.49

Additional information

Pairs exceptionally well with cream and butter-based dishes, complementing and enhancing the wine’s texture and mouthfeel.