Wines from the Waterkloof Estate emphasise restraint, elegance and a strong mineral character due to the vineyards' exposed position on the upper slopes of the famed Schaapenberg Mountain. High above False Bay the Waterkloof vineyards face directly onto the Atlantic Ocean at the southern limit of the Stellenbosch wine region. This very special site with its strong maritime influence, steep aspect and unique soil profile allows for the production of truly fine wines. The winemaking and viticultural team led by Werner Engelbrecht follow natural winemaking methods with minimal intervention, including the use of open-top fermenters, whole bunch pressing, wild yeast fermentation, extended fermentation periods and extra lees contact to maximise the terroir character. Since the first vintage in 2005 the estate has garnered widespread praise and many awards, producing some of South Africa's best and most sought after Sauvignon and Merlot based wines. Waterkloof has also been at the forefront of innovation producing South Africa's first iconic rosé (Cape Coral). Wines under the Peacock Ridge label are produced from the lower more protected slopes and are rounder with greater generosity and a more forward style.

Circumstance Sauvignon Blanc is produced from the windswept southwest facing, low- yielding slopes of Schaapenberg Hill. Strong winds churn up the vineyards regularly. We use Organic and Biodynamic methods based on old world sustainable practices in our vineyards to ensure that the vines are nourished and in balance. Our soils are free of chemicals and are kept healthy by using plant extracts, fungi and bacteria from our home-made compost. These traditional methods ensure a balanced vine with low production and intense flavours. The vineyards are about 5 kilometres from the ocean, and are planted at a height of between 270 and 300 meters above sea level. The soils are of sandstone origin with medium-sized stones, helping with drainage and also with moisture retention. The vineyards are an average age of 17 years. Production was approximately 5 t/ha.

The winemaking philosophy is the same for all our premium white wines from Waterkloof. We follow a traditional, minimalistic approach which means that we interfere as little as possible with the winemaking process. This allows the flavours prevalent in that specific vineyard to be expressed. To achieve this goal, all grapes are whole bunch pressed, ensuring that we extract the juice in the gentlest way possible. The juice is then allowed to settle for 24 hours. Yeasts occurring on the grapes are allowed to ferment the juice, this leads to a longer fermentation with a slow release of aromas and a more structured palate. We also do not add acid or any enzymes during the process and a only light filtration was used prior to bottling.

Ideal with fresh oysters or great with a goat's cheese.

91 Points - Tim Atkin MW 2023 South Africa Special Report