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.

The farm rises up to 300 metres above sea level with the Hottentots-Holland and Helderberg Mountains as backdrop and descends to a mere four kilometres from the False Bay coast.

Werner has a hands "nearly off' mantra, the grapes were whole-bunch pressed in Waterkloof's new gravitational cellar and fermentation was allowed to occur naturally relying solely on wild yeasts. The wines making up the blend were vinified separately and aged on their primary lees for ten months prior to blending. Some of the components were aged in oak, adding luscious richness and finesse to the wine. This elegant blend of Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon is an all-embracing reflection - almost a description by taste - of the estate's defining sense of origin with its singular variations in soils, terrain and climatic conditions.

Try with Sashimi of Tuna, smoked potato gnocchi or red snapper.

93 Points - Tim Atkin MW 2023 South Africa Special Report

Circle White 2022 94/100DECANTER Attractive nose of dried lemon zest, white peach and a lick of oak. Lovely richness on the palate, rounded and long.