Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

The Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is a classic expression of premium Stellenbosch Cabernet, produced exclusively from estate-grown fruit on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. Cabernet Sauvignon is central to Waterford Estate, accounting for approximately 40% of the vineyards and forming the backbone of the estate's flagship wine, The Jem.

The 2019 vintage benefited from a cooler growing season, allowing the grapes to develop concentration while retaining excellent natural acidity and freshness. Waterford's Cabernet vineyards are planted on north-facing slopes at approximately 330 metres above sea level, where loamy gravel and granite-rich soils combine with cooling afternoon ocean breezes to create the estate's distinctive mineral character.

Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine brings together fruit from eight different Cabernet clones planted across varying microclimates on the estate. The result is an elegant, structured and unmistakably Helderberg Cabernet with considerable ageing potential.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep ruby red with a concentrated crimson core.

Nose: Classic Cabernet aromatics of blackcurrant and cassis lead the way, accompanied by fresh fynbos and subtle herbal notes. Hints of graphite, crushed stone and fine oak add complexity and reflect the mineral character of the Helderberg vineyards.

Palate: Elegant and concentrated, with layers of ripe blackcurrant and dark berry fruit framed by bright natural acidity. Silky yet firm tannins provide excellent structure, while subtle herbal notes and a distinctive graphite-like minerality bring freshness and sophistication.

Finish: Long, structured and fruit-driven, with lingering cassis, fine tannins and a cool mineral edge. The balance between fruit, acidity and tannin suggests excellent development in the cellar.

Awards & Accolades

The 2019 vintage has received excellent critical recognition, making this worth highlighting prominently on the product listing:

• Gold Medal – The Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters 2025
• 93 Points – Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Special Report 2024
• 4.5 Stars – Platter's Wine Guide 2024

The Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters is judged by a panel including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and senior wine buyers, making the Gold Medal particularly noteworthy for this vintage.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for grilled ribeye, roast beef, lamb, venison and slow-braised meat dishes. Its dark fruit and fine tannin structure also work beautifully with mature hard cheeses and earthy mushroom dishes.

Technical Details

• Producer: Waterford Estate
• Vintage: 2019
• Country: South Africa
• Region: Stellenbosch
• Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vineyards: Estate-grown Helderberg fruit
• Vineyard Altitude: Approximately 330m above sea level
• Soils: Loamy gravel / granite-influenced soils
• Maturation: Approximately 21 months in 300L French oak barrels
• Alcohol: 12,8% ABV
• Residual Sugar: 1.34 g/L
• Total Acidity: 5.0 g/L
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Closure: Cork
• Cellaring Potential: Up to approximately 20 years from vintage