The Circle of Life wines showcase Waterkloof's potential. All grapes are hand-picked, sorted in the vineyards, and transported to the cellar by horse. To ensure only the finest berries are used, the grapes are also hand-sorted in the winery. The Rhône varieties were fully fermented, and the Bordeaux varieties were destemmed. Fermentation began naturally with yeast present on the grapes to enhance the dominant flavors of the vineyards.
The wines remain on the skins for approximately 30 days to allow the tannins to soften. The length of this period depends on the taste. After this, the grapes are gently pressed and aged separately in French oak. After 18 months of aging, the Syrah (26 percent), Merlot (24 percent), Petit Verdor (26 percent), and Cabernet Franc (24 percent) are blended and aged for a further nine months in wooden fermenters. This wine is unfined and gently filtered.
And then it's time to savor. A perfectly integrated blend with great length, combining the spice of the Syrah, the fresh fruit of the Petit Verdot, and the juiciness of the Merlot. The introduction is fresh and fruity with good acidity, evolving into riper flavors and herbaceous notes, with elegant tannins and light acidity on the finish. It is very versatile and will complement a wide variety of dishes.
