Waterford Estate, Grenache Single Vineyard 2022

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
The 2022 vintage was drier than what had been experienced in the last three years, and the warmer temperatures also contributed to further drying of the vines. This dryness resulted in significant concentration in the wines, as the grapes lost a considerable amount of moisture due to the heat. Additionally, the higher temperatures promoted ripeness and contributed to the structure that will be evident in the wines.

VINEYARD
The single vineyard is planted on the rockiest sandstone slopes at Waterford Estate. This location is the most arid and warm site on the farm, making it ideal for Grenache.

VINIFICATION
The grapes are hand-harvested, destemmed but not crushed, and approximately 4% of the bunches are left whole. These whole berries and bunches are then placed in fermentation vessels and allowed to ferment for approximately 18 days. After fermentation, the grapes are pressed, and the wine is transferred to old 500L French oak barrels and porcelain jars for malolactic fermentation and ageing.

MATURATION
Aged in 30% porcelain jars, 25% Foudre, and 45% old (10 years plus) 500L French oak barrels for 14 months.

TASTING NOTES
ON RELEASE (Date tasted: March 2024)
The light ruby-red colour already denotes a lighter style of wine. On the nose, spiced cinnamon, leather, and savoury cherries all build on a base of red fruit. The palate is concentrated, following the nose with red fruit and rich texture, all underpinned with an integrated acidity serving to add to the wine’s balance and poise. The structure is bolder than previous vintages but elegant and soft with a lengthy mineral finish adding to the wine’s complexity.
EVOLUTION AFTER 5 YEARS
Grenache is known for showing ageing characteristics at an early stage, with the wine turning a brickish brown colour. The nose will show savoury fruit notes, as the subtle baking spice character starts to take centre stage. The palate will soften, with the vibrant acidity integrating further into the wine as the balance continues to shine with the wine’s lengthy mineral finish.

AGEING POTENTIAL
3 – 8 years from production

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
Grenache’s versatility is a key factor in its popularity, appeasing all palates no matter the season. This wine excels in its ability to pair well with a wide variety of dishes, including roasted meats, fragrant stews, and Asian flavours, showcasing its exceptional complexity and impressive capacity to harmonise with these intricate and rich tastes.

WINE ANALYSIS
Alc 14.01%
TA 4.41 g/L
RS 1.43 g/L
pH 3.74

Additional information

This wine excels in its ability to pair well with a wide variety of dishes, including roasted meats, fragrant stews, and Asian flavours, showcasing its exceptional complexity and impressive capacity to harmonise with these intricate and rich tastes.