Press Releases
Waterkloof, the arresting ‘cellar in the sky’ outside Somerset West renowned for its pure, elegant wines, has introduced a maiden Chenin Blanc to its Seriously Cool range – an impeccably balanced rendition made to be taken seriously and enjoyed just slightly chilled.
“Stepping up a notch from the more easy-drinking breed of Chenins, our maiden vintage Seriously Cool Chenin Blanc 2014 is a testimony of what can be done with this versatile, faithful ‘workhorse’ grape. Long gone are its less fashionable days, because in the right hands and soil, Chenin Blanc has become far more rewarding and exciting than many a thoroughbred,” shares Waterkloof winemaker Nadia Barnard.
A proud export of the Helderberg wine region, this dry, textural varietal expression found its lucky horseshoes in 30 year old, dry-farmed bush vines that have reached optimal balance in growth and production through time. Fanned by False Bay breezes, these ideal cool pockets of low-yielding vineyards ensure slower and longer ripening periods for the grapes to develop complex aromatics, wonderfully balanced acidity and concentrated flavours.
The grapes were whole-bunch pressed for the gentle extraction of the purest juices which were naturally fermented over a period of six months to give the wine its exquisite, balanced flavours. Only a light filtration was used prior to bottling. As with all Waterkloof wines, no additions were made during the winemaking process, other than a small dose of sulphur as a preservative.
The Seriously Cool Chenin Blanc 2014 exudes aromas of stone fruit, white flowers and a touch of honey and because of the longer alcoholic fermentation the flavours are well integrated, ending with a crisp acidity.
This newcomer complements seafood dishes with simple, clean flavours exceptionally well – and do not chill this wine to death as it is rather fine.
Red wine aficionados will be happy to know that the 2nd vintage of Waterkloof’s Seriously Cool Cinsault, 2013, is now also available.
Following in the seriously cool footsteps of its predecessor, the Seriously Cool Cinsault 2013 is a richly perfumed, elegant red wine to be enjoyed slightly chilled – at any temperature between 10°C and 18°C, with each degree in the range offering a differently delicious taste experience.
The Cinsault grapes were naturally, whole-bunch fermented in open top wooden fermenters, without the addition of cultivated yeasts, and the wine stayed on the skins for 30 days before it was gently pressed. The 2013 vintage spent nine months in 600-litre French oak barrels (2nd and 3rd fill) to develop its soft, supple tannins and fragrant bouquet.
The Seriously Cool Cinsault 2013 is lively and not overtly fruity with a combination of cherry, liquorice and earthy spices appreciated on the nose, whilst soft, supple tannins are complemented by elegant fruit flavours in the mouth.
This is not a run-of-the mill commercial wine; it is complex with persistent length and a great finish, and as Nadia states “it really is seriously cool”.
Both the Seriously Cool Chenin Blanc 2014 and Seriously Cool Cinsault 2013 are available directly from Waterkloof’s tasting lounge, selected wine boutiques and esteemed restaurants countrywide.
For more information or wine orders contact Waterkloof Estate at Tel: 021 858 1292 or
visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za.