Library Collection Co-Ferment 2022

The Library Collection Co-Ferment blends Cabernet Franc from the warmer Spring Vineyard and Malbec from the lower mountain, co-fermented and aged in concrete eggs for a harmonious, complex wine with rich fruit and minerality.

2022  | Tim Atkin Special Report 2024 | 95 Points

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Details
Fact Sheets
Tasting Notes

The inky purple hue of the wine shows the inclusion of Malbec in the blend, adding to its depth. Aromas of leather, sweet liquorice spice, ripe plum, and luscious dark cherries greet the nose. The delicate herbaceous essence, reminiscent of tea leaves, indicate the presence of Cabernet Franc. On the palate, velvet-coating tannins enhance the wine’s structure, while a bright slate-like minerality brings balance. This minerality elevates complexity and refreshes the rich texture. Vibrant red currant flavours and crunchy black fruit contribute to the wine’s richness and intrigue. As the wine unfolds, these elements harmonise, leading to a lingering finish, with depth and sophistication. Each sip reveals a new layer of complexity, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Cultivars
  • 60% Cabernet Franc,
  • 40% Malbec
Wine Analysis
  • Alc 13.2%
  • TA 5.18 g/L
  • RS 1.33 g/L
  • pH 3.7
Vinification

Co-fermented and aged in concrete eggs. “Co-fermented” refers to a winemaking technique, where different grape varieties or components are fermented together in the same vessel. This method allows for the blending of flavours and characteristics from each grape variety during fermentation, resulting in a more integrated and complex final wine. In this context, the wine was made by fermenting the varieties together in a concrete egg vessel, and then aged in the same vessel. Concrete eggs are favoured by winemakers for their unique shape and material, which promote gentle ageing, while preserving the wine’s natural flavours and qualities.

Vineyard

A marriage of two blocks situated on different sites of the Estate. The Cabernet Franc component is grown on the Spring Vineyard, a warmer vineyard, higher up the Helderberg Mountain, planted in a north-south direction. The soil of this vineyard can be characterised by decomposed sandstone with a granitic base, aiding in the perfect growing conditions for Cabernet Franc. The Malbec component, making up a total of four rows on the Estate, is grown lower down the mountain in sandier, more clay-rich soils, offering an easier growing environment for the cultivar.

Maturation

100% of the wine was aged in concrete eggs for 19 months

Ageing Potential

3 - 8 years from production

Shipping

Delivery is R170 per order for purchases under R1,200, with free shipping on orders over R1,200. Local deliveries are completed within 5 to 7 working days, and international shipping rates may apply. Contact chris@waterfordestate.co.za for speedy delivery.

International Shipping

Order from shops in the UK, USA, and Europe. For shipping inquiries to other countries, please email us.

Cellarmaster Insights

Tune in to hear cellarmaster Mark le Roux share his insights on this exceptional wine.

Behind the Bottle

Explore the journey of our featured wine from vineyard to bottle in our blog article.

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Not for Persons Under the Age of 18
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