Waterkloof – exceptional wines from Stellenbosch
Waterkloof is an exceptional South African wine estate on the cool, coastal edge of Stellenbosch. The estate is located on the slopes of the Schapenberg, only about 4.5 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of altitude, wind, and cooling sea air creates a remarkably cool microclimate here.
Although grapes had been cultivated since the 1970s, Waterkloof's modern history began in 2003, when Paul Boutinot acquired the estate. The first wine under the Waterkloof name was made from the 2005 harvest.
From the outset, the central idea was to produce wines that showcase the character of this special place.
A unique location
Waterkloof is situated high on the Schapenberg, overlooking False Bay. The vineyards are strongly influenced by the nearby ocean. The wind and sea breeze provide cooling, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly.
This is important in a warm wine country like South Africa. The grapes can develop sufficient ripeness while retaining their natural acidity and freshness. According to Waterkloof, these conditions result in grapes with great concentration, balance, and a clear sense of place.
Biodynamic and regenerative
Waterkloof has a strong focus on nature and biodiversity. Approximately half of the estate is reserved for the protection of natural vegetation and fauna.
The estate now operates according to the principles of regenerative agriculture. This goes beyond simply sustainable practices: the goal is to actively improve the soil, biodiversity, water management, and the ecosystem.
Among other things, they work with large quantities of their own compost, Nguni cattle, cover crops, and natural fertilizers. A portion of the vineyards is largely dry-farmed, with minimal irrigation applied.
Winemaking with minimal intervention
In the cellar too, the natural character of the grapes is central. Waterkloof has a modern gravity-flow winery, using gravity to move grapes and wine as gently as possible.
The first biodynamically certified harvest came in 2015. In addition, winemaking utilizes natural yeasts and traditional techniques, including whole-bunch pressing for white wines and open wooden fermentation vats for red wines.
The wines of Waterkloof
Waterkloof produces several wine series, including Waterkloof, Circumstance, Circle of Life, and Seriously Cool.
The assortment includes various grape varieties, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. Each series showcases a different aspect of the terroir and the estate's winemaking philosophy.
The style of Waterkloof can best be described as pure, elegant, fresh, and terroir-driven, with the aim not to let the wine be dominated by oak or heavy extraction.
Fun fact
Waterkloof uses horses for work in the vineyard. A Percheron horse was introduced as early as 2008 to assist with biodynamic practices. The use of horses aligns with the philosophy of minimizing the burden on the soil from heavy machinery.
Discover the wines of Waterkloof
At Vechtstreek Wijnen, you will find various wines from Waterkloof in Stellenbosch. Discover the characterful South African wines from this exceptional estate, where nature, terroir, and minimal intervention are central.