Waterford Estate Grenache Single Vineyard 2023

The Waterford Estate Grenache Single Vineyard 2023 is a refined, site-specific expression of Grenache from one of the warmest and most challenging vineyard sites on Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch. The single vineyard is planted on the estate’s rockiest sandstone slopes, where the arid conditions naturally restrict the vines and encourage small yields of concentrated, intensely flavoured fruit.

Made from 100% Grenache, the 2023 is deliberately crafted in a lighter, elegant style rather than chasing extraction or excessive oak. The grapes are hand-harvested and destemmed without crushing, with a small portion retained as whole bunches. Fermentation lasts approximately 18 days before the wine is transferred into a combination of porcelain jars, foudre and old 500L French oak barrels for maturation.

The result is a beautifully expressive Stellenbosch Grenache combining vibrant red fruit, savoury complexity and fine tannins with an unusually long mineral finish.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Light ruby-red, immediately signalling the wine’s elegant and more delicate style.

Nose: Expressive and savoury, with fresh red berries and cherries complemented by cinnamon, subtle leather and gentle spice. The fruit remains bright and lifted, while earthy and savoury nuances add complexity.

Palate: Concentrated yet elegant, with juicy red fruit and savoury cherry flavours supported by a rich, supple texture. Integrated acidity provides freshness and poise, while the 2023 shows slightly more structure than previous vintages without sacrificing Grenache’s characteristic softness.

Finish: Long and refined with lingering red fruit, delicate spice and a distinctive mineral character that adds freshness and complexity.

Awards & Accolades

The 2023 vintage has already received strong critical recognition:

• 4.5 Stars – Platter’s Wine Guide 2026
• 92 Points – Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Special Report 2025

The wine also follows a strong track record for the Single Vineyard Grenache, with the 2022 vintage receiving 93 points from Tim Atkin, 4.5 Platter stars and Double Gold at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Awards.

Food Pairing

Serve slightly cool at around 14–16°C. Its red-fruited, savoury profile makes it particularly versatile with roast duck, lamb, pork belly, charcuterie, grilled chicken, Mediterranean dishes and mushroom-based dishes.

Technical Details

• Producer: Waterford Estate
• Vintage: 2023
• Country: South Africa
• Region: Stellenbosch
• Variety: 100% Grenache
• Vineyard: Single vineyard
• Site: Rocky sandstone slopes on Waterford Estate
• Harvesting: Hand-harvested
• Whole Bunch: Approximately 4%
• Fermentation: Approximately 18 days
• Maturation: 14 months
• Maturation Vessels: 30% porcelain jars, 25% foudre and 45% old 500L French oak barrels (10+ years old)
• Alcohol: 14.01% ABV
• Residual Sugar: 1.43 g/L
• Total Acidity: 4.41 g/L
• pH: 3.74
• Bottle Size: 750ml