A wine drive safari at Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch

In the centre of the romantic courtyard at Waterford Estate is an elegant fountain framed by leafy trees. This European setting strewn with plush outdoor furniture alludes to a distinctly Italian or French demeanour where the laissez-faire attitude to life rules. We are, however, not anywhere near Europe, but instead in the depths of the South African winelands at Waterford Estate: a winery situated in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley that celebrates the finest in South African winemaking.

For those who like their wine served with a touch of adventure is Waterford’s ‘Wine Drive Safari’. A wine picnic tour journeyed via Jeep, on our visit to Waterford, we explored each corner of the estate whilst simultaneously sampling the wine. Smart and unserious, I knew this wine flight was going to be quite a ride on arrival at 10am. Too early for a safari fuelled by wine? Not according to Waterford Estate. We sink into one of the sofas that surround the courtyard and are swiftly served flutes of their Waterford Blanc de Blancs Cap Classique (South African sparkling), sealing our first impression of what lies ahead.

Before jumping in the Waterford Jeep, our guide led us around the impressive cellars. Providing an insight to the craftmanship that goes into making each bottle, Waterford embraces old-world elegance with new world characteristics. The winery’s stylish persona continues behind closed doors and among the oak barrels with chandeliers hung above. Here, the vinification process follows a holistic ethos: with a gentler oaking method across the red portfolio to allow the delicate characteristics to lead. This is paired with a careful barrel selection strategy, where the winemakers adapt their skills to the particular vintage.

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