This philosophy is optimised in The Jem, our flagship wine and the pinnacle of decades of dedication. A harmonious blend of Mediterranean and Bordeaux varieties, The Jem is a tribute to the Helderberg Mountain terroir, our commitment to sustainability, and the exceptional skill of our team.
A blend rooted in heritage
The Jem stands as a testament to Waterford Estate’s evolution in the South African wine landscape. Each varietal within the blend, carefully chosen from our diverse vineyards, is crafted with precision and respect for its unique characteristics. From the bold structure of Petit Verdot to the vibrant acidity of Barbera and the rustic elegance of Sangiovese, every component contributes to the wine that is greater than the sum of its parts.
This iconic wine is a snapshot of the estate’s heritage, showcasing the beauty and complexity of Bordeaux and Mediterranean grapes in perfect synergy.
Decades of learning in every sip
The journey to crafting The Jem has been one of meticulous experimentation and refinement. By creating single-varietal wines like the 2017 Barbera, 2018 Sangiovese, and 2016 Petit Verdot, we have deepened our understanding of each grape’s role in the blend.
These wines have been our learning process, revealing how each variety interacts with the soil, climate, and winemaking techniques of our home on the Helderberg Mountain. The lessons learned have informed every decision in creating The Jem, resulting in a wine of unmatched balance, complexity, and elegance.
Sustainability at the core
The Jem is more than a wine; it’s a symbol of Waterford Estate’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Our regenerative farming techniques have shown incredible returns in the quality and health of our vineyard and The Jem reflects this holistic approach to winemaking. From conserving natural vegetation to nurturing soil health, sustainability is woven into every aspect of the process.
This commitment ensures that the land will continue to produce exceptional wines for generations to come while capturing the unique character of the Helderberg Mountain.
The 2017 Jem: A collector’s dream
The sought-after 2017 vintage of The Jem demonstrates all the lessons learnt in our winemaking journey. Master of Wine, Tim Atkin has high praise for The Jem saying that it is ‘Poised, complex and nuanced, with polished tannins’ and awarding it 97 points in his 2024 South African Special Report. The Jem is a wine for an occasion, its elegant yet rich body serving to add to your special moments.
With its deep, layered palate of dark fruit, earthy spice, and fine tannins, the 2017 Jem is a reflection of our place on the international stage showcasing authentic South African wine.
Elevating South African wine on the global stage
As a flagship wine, The Jem demonstrates the extraordinary potential of South African wine. It bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, paying homage to Old World craftsmanship while embracing the unique possibilities of the New World.
The 2017 Jem is a collector’s item and a representation of Waterford Estate’s dedication to excellence, it is a wine that deserves a place in your collection waiting to be enjoyed with your friends and family.