
The Jem
The Jem, Waterford's flagship wine, stands proudly among South Africa's finest and the world's top 1%.
2017 · Platter's Wine Guide 2025 · 4.5 Stars
2017 · Tim Atkin Special Report 2024 · 97 Points
2016 · Robert Parker Wine Advocate 2024 · 93 pointsDetails
Fact Sheets
Tasting Notes
The nose is bold and expressive, with concentrated dark fruit, vanilla oak, and clove spice, supported by layers of herbaceous fynbos and a subtle savoury nuance that adds depth and complexity. The palate is luxurious and finely textured, unfolding with evolving fruit character that highlights the Cabernet Sauvignon core. Concentrated fruit from the vineyard shines through, bringing richness without overwhelming the wine's innate balance. The blend is seamless and harmonious, reflecting a quiet confidence and understated power that promises longevity in the bottle. The finish is both mineral and fruit-forward, with a velvety texture that draws you effortlessly to the next sip.
Cultivars
44% Cabernet Sauvignon
22% Shiraz
8% Petit Verdot
8% Cabernet Franc
6% Merlot
5% Sangiovese
4% Mourvèdre
3% Barbera
Wine Analysis
Alc 13.5%
TA 5.16 g/L
RS 1.5 g/L
pH 3.6
Vinification
All the components are vinified as individual batches. About 6 months after fermentation, the blend is made up and aged as a blend for 20 months in total with two rackings in between. The early blending gives the blend the most time to integrate and produce a coherent wine. This careful approach ensures a perfectly balanced and harmonious final product.
Vineyard
The rich diversity of soils across the expansive 120-hectare farm has provided Waterford Estate with an exceptional opportunity to cultivate 11 distinct red varietals that are well-suited to our diverse terroir. Embracing the influence of Italian, French, and Spanish varietals, we have carefully planted these cultivars to showcase the unique character of these influential varietals.
Maturation
Aged in 225L and 300L French oak barrels, 19% new oak.
Ageing Potential
5 - 25 years from production
Shipping
Delivery is R170 per order for purchases under R1,200, with free shipping on orders over R1,200. Local deliveries are completed within 5 to 7 working days, and international shipping rates may apply. Contact shop@waterfordestate.co.za for speedy delivery.

