The Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Waterford Antigo

The South African Winelands is taking the wine world by storm, with critics speaking with high praise for many producers. Waterford Estate’s cellarmaster Mark le Roux reflects on the South African wine industry and what makes Waterford Estate unique saying, "Selling wine with a beverage mindset is challenging – selling South Africa, our history, our culture, our diversity, our story, our passion, our uniqueness is the key to success. By understanding the value in this is what makes our business profitable and viable".

Waterford Estate is proud to be a part of the Stellenbosch Winelands representing this region by producing Cabernet Sauvignon that truly expresses the region's terroir, emphasising the unique character and people that make the site so special. Master of Wine Tim Atkin celebrates South African wine stating that the nation is “producing the greatest wines in its history” and with every passing year “better viticulture and site-selection, superior virus-free plant material and a broader palette of grape varieties” is the key to the South African Wineland's success.

Our current vintages of the acclaimed Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and the distinguished Waterford Antigo are two wines that epitomise the essence of South African terroir and the legacy of Stellenbosch winemaking. These wines not only showcase the unique characteristics of the Helderberg Mountain but also highlight the innovative spirit and heritage of South African viticulture.

Cabernet Sauvignon: A testament to terroir

The Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is vinified to honour the unique soils and slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. Crafted from grapes sourced from the different sites on the farm, across different soil structures and slope aspects, this wine offers complexity and depth. 

Our north-facing slopes benefit from the cool breeze of False Bay, enhancing the wine's depth and complexity. With an ageing potential of up to 25 years, the Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon will evolve gracefully, revealing layers of stewed and dried fruits, refined tannins, and tertiary characteristics of leather, cherry tobacco, and rich spice. This wine is a journey through time, embodying the ethos of regenerative farming practices and a deep connection to our site in Stellenbosch.

Waterford Antigo: Honouring ancient soils

The Waterford Antigo, named after the rich red soils that nurture the Cabernet Sauvignon vines used for this wine, is a tribute to the ancient terroir of the Helderberg Mountain. "The best interpretation of terroir is shown through wines that aren’t covered by winemaking. Winemaking should merely be a catalyst, involved, but not to interfere or alter the wine of origin," says Mark le Roux. The Antigo blend, driven by Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot offering a wine with plush, elegant fruit aromatics and a distinctive character from the rich soil composition.

Waterford Estate embodies the harmonious blend of New World innovation and Old World tradition. Stellenbosch, with its century-old legacy and soils as ancient as 600 million years, provides the perfect backdrop for crafting exceptional wines. The excitement of the Stellenbosch Winelands, combined with the dedication of South African wineries, enhances the country’s appeal as a premier wine tourism destination crafting premium wine.

"We envision a future where consumers are more informed and enthusiastic about fine wine, supporting the sustainability and growth of the South African wine industry," Mark le Roux emphasises. "Our commitment to educating consumers and fostering genuine appreciation for fine wine sets a precedent for how we will continue to evolve and thrive in the market."