The Jem 2017 embodies Waterford Estate’s philosophy: a harmonious blend reflecting the unique character of South Africa’s Winelands. This exceptional Master Red Blend from the Helderberg Mountain features a complex array of varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Shiraz (23%), Merlot (7%), Mourvèdre (6%), Sangiovese (5%), Cabernet Franc (4%), Petit Verdot (3%), and Barbera (2%).
Despite a challenging vintage with lower rainfall, ideal conditions led to concentrated, healthy fruit, resulting in a classically styled wine with firm tannins and pleasing acidity.
On release (tasted Sep 2023), the nose reveals dark and red fruit, herbaceous fynbos, vanilla oak, crushed violets, and clove spice. The palate is velvety, full, and vibrant, with a classic dry profile and an enduring mineral finish.
Crafted from 11 distinct red varietals across diverse soils, each component is individually vinified before blending early for optimal integration. Aged for 20 months in French oak (35% new), The Jem 2017 offers an aging potential of 5-25 years.
After 10 years, expect notes of Cuban cigars, spiced cedar, mulberry, and damson fruit, maintaining its youthful poise. At 15 years, it evolves into chocolate, liquorice, incense, forest floor, cherry, leather, and blackberries, showcasing continued depth and balance.
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