Introducing the Waterford Antigo 2021
Introducing the Waterford Antigo 2021: A Testament to Terroir
Less than 300 meters separate the vineyard blocks thatproduce Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and the Waterford Antigo - but inthe glass, the difference is unmistakable. A wine shaped by its origins, theWaterford Antigo 2021 is a celebration of the estate’s diversity and the country'sancient viticultural soil.
A unique expression of Cabernet Sauvignon
At Waterford Estate, the respect shown for nature andwinemaking is central to our philosophy. The Antigo is a prime example of thissynergy, a wine shaped by both the vineyard’s natural composition andmeticulous winemaking. Grown on the eastern side of the estate, the red claysoils provide a nurturing environment for Cabernet Sauvignon, resulting in awine with a fruit-forward profile, smooth tannins, and a plush texture. The redclay acts as a sponge, absorbing moisture and nutrients, giving the vines aneasier life with far less stress than that of the loam-like soils found underthe vines used in our bolder, more concentrated Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.
Comprising 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, and 4%Merlot, the Antigo 2021 is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based red blend that captures thediversity of Helderberg Mountain terroir, the skill of our winemaking team andthe estates understanding of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The grapes are hand-harvested as our first layer of qualitycontrol before a carefully monitored fermentation process of 18 days. The wine thenmatures in French oak barrels, 25% of which are new, for a total of 20 months.
A vintage of complexity and elegance
The 2021 vintage posed both challenges and opportunities.While high heat and substantial rainfall contributed to excellent fruitripeness and structure, precision in harvest timing was crucial to achieving ourcharacteristic concentration. The Antigo is a wine known for its balance of ripefruit expression with refined structure, a hallmark of Helderberg-grownCabernet Sauvignon.
The Waterford Antigo 2021 is vibrant and generous, offeringnotes of plush red currants, subtle tobacco, and oak sweetness on the nose. Thepalate mirrors this generosity, with acidity providing a lively balance to thewine’s exceptional plush structure. Gentle tannins carry the sweeter red fruit flavours,leading to a lingering, textured finish.
Ageing potential and pairing recommendations
While beautifully expressive in its youth, the Antigo 2021also offers remarkable ageing potential. Over time, the vibrant red fruit willevolve into mature, dried fruit characteristics, while the tannins willcontinue to integrate, creating an even more harmonious and complex wine.
A celebration of place and passion
The Waterford Antigo 2021 is a true testament to the land’sinfluence on fine wine. It is a bold yet refined expression of CabernetSauvignon, meticulously crafted with the dedication and precision that definesWaterford Estate's winemaking philosophy.
