Circumstance Cabernet Franc Waterkloof 2021

Circumstance Cabernet Franc Waterkloof Estate, biodynamic, lesser known of the Bordeaux grapes, making a Bordeaux style wine from the New World. The new Cabernet Franc from the great natural estate nestled in the hills above False Bay is from two adjoining, windswept, south-facing (less sun exposure) blocks 240-260 msl and a mere 2 miles from The Atlantic. These factors combine to produce low yields and very balanced grapes with great natural acidity. Grapes are hand-harvested and brought to the cellar by horses for hand-sorting. De-stemming and sorting takes place and fermentation happens spontaneously with wild yeast in large, open-top wooden fermenters. Manual punch-downs or foot-pressing pigeage take place 1-2 times per day and the wine is left on skins for 35 days before going through malolactic fermentation in mainly old barriques then ageing for 23 months in the same vessels. No fining, just a light filtration. No additions other than a little sulphur. Fresh but full Cabernet Franc, red fruits, pencil, green pepper and crunch. Excellent example of clean, juicy natural wine at a great price.

WATERKLOOF estate was founded in 2003, ending Paul Boutinot’s persistent and uncompromising 10 year search for a vineyard site with the potential to produce truly fine wine with a defining sense of origin.

Located on the south-facing slopes of Schapenberg Hill near Somerset West in the Stellenbosch district of the Western Cape’s Coastal Region, Waterkloof shares its magnificent Atlantic views with free-roaming peacocks and other natural fauna and flora attracted to this haven. Certified by Demeter in 2015, their vineyards were of only a few in the Cape to boast official biodynamic approval and status until they decided to pull out of the certification due to the constraints of the criteria.  Paul Boutinot has always known his own mind and in his view certification actually restricted their attempts to work fully in tune with the natural environment of their farm. 

The estate has 53 hectares under vine and Tim Atkin’s Cape Classification currently ranks Waterkloof as 5th Growth level. With production around 165,000 bottles per year, Waterkloof make 'honest wines' from their unique coastal site. Respect for nature, traditional wine making practices and minimal intervention are all key to their success.