The Jem Jeroboam
The Jem, Waterford’s flagship wine, stands proudly among South Africa’s finest and the world’s top 1%.
2016 | Robert Parker Wine Advocate 2024 | 93 points
2016 | Platter’s Wine Guide 2024 | 4.5 stars
2015 | Gilbert & Gaillard International Awards 2023 | Double Gold



The Jem is a physical expression of the philosophy here at Waterford Estate and reflects the diversity and unique character of the South African people and Winelands. The intricacies of the nose demonstrates the complexity of The Jem Blend, with the nose showing an umami character underpinned by an earthy note as a result of our unique character on the Helderberg Mountain. The complexity of the nose is reinforced with black and red berry fruits, baked cinnamon and soft oaky vanilla notes. The palate follows the effortless complexity of the nose with classical tannins and a bright, balancing acidity adding to the well-integrated body of the wine. The renowned classic minerality found in Waterford Estate’s wines adds richness and tension to the blend. Furthermore, the layers of the blend contribute to a lingering finish, amplifying its complexity.
- 48% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 22% Shiraz 22%
- 8% Cabernet Franc
- 7% Mourvèdre
- 6% Petit Verdot
- 4% Merlot
- 3% Barbera
- 2% Sangiovese
- Alc 14.1%
- TA 5.28 g/L
- RS 1.6 g/L
- pH 3.63
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.
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.
Aged in 225L French oak barrels, of which 35% are new oak
5 - 25 years from production
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 chris@waterfordestate.co.za for speedy delivery.
International Shipping
Order from shops in the UK, USA, and Europe. For shipping inquiries to other countries, please email us.
Cellarmaster Insights
Tune in to hear cellarmaster Mark le Roux share his insights on this exceptional wine.
Behind the Bottle
Explore the journey of our featured wine from vineyard to bottle in our blog article.