It’s me again, Jaryd, and yes, I’m talking about wine—again. Those of you who know a thing or two about fine wines will know that Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch produces some of the finest in the country, all within one of the most breathtaking settings in which to enjoy them. Among their exceptional offerings, their red blend “The Jem,” named in honor of the founder Jeremy Ord, stands out. This wine is a beautiful reflection of the surrounding terroir and Waterford’s commitment to capturing this unique environment in a bottle. Every sip tells the story of Stellenbosch’s terroir—one of the reasons The Jem is so prized.
Recently, two guests and I were fortunate enough to experience Waterford’s signature Wine Drive Safari, an immersive experience that goes beyond the traditional wine tasting. This unique tour offers a deeper look into the vineyard and the natural environment that shapes each bottle produced here, allowing guests to see firsthand the remarkable setting and understand the dynamics at play.
After settling into a classic game-viewing Land Rover, we headed up to the top of the estate. It’s an adventurous ascent, as you bounce along rugged paths, taking in the beauty of the landscape unfolding around you. This elevated viewpoint not only offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Stellenbosch Valley but also underscores why this area has become a world-renowned wine region. From here, you gain a fresh perspective on how factors like slope, soil, and climate combine to create wines that reflect their origin so distinctly.
Our first stop was a picture-perfect spot tucked between a vineyard and a serene dam, where we enjoyed some of Waterford’s signature wines accompanied by a beautifully curated charcuterie platter. Here, under the dappled shade of nearby trees, we began with a tasting of the estate’s classic varietals, each one paired thoughtfully with the flavors of the charcuterie selection. As we sipped and savored, surrounded by the quiet of the vineyards, my guests truly began to appreciate the land and the work behind each bottle.
After our first tasting, we climbed back into the Land Rover and continued our journey through the estate. The views as we traveled were nothing short of spectacular. Seeing the estate from these different vantage points adds a new dimension to the experience, as each corner reveals a fresh landscape, each vineyard block with its own character and story. The tasting room is beautiful, but moving through the land itself really makes you understand the estate's grand scale and diversity.
Our final stop was a scenic deck, built on a hillside, shaded by an ancient tree, and overlooking the estate and the Stellenbosch Valley below. This spot felt like the crown jewel of the property, and it was clear why it had been chosen as the final stage of the safari. As the sun began to set, casting a golden light over the vineyards, we enjoyed a glass of The Jem. The richness and depth of this wine, combined with the colors and tranquility of the sunset, created a moment my guests will never forget.
The couple I was guiding was on their honeymoon, and they couldn’t quite believe their luck as they sat there, side by side, sharing in such a romantic setting. I may not be the most romantic person myself, but even I couldn’t deny the beauty of the moment—the gentle hues of the sunset, the sweeping views, and a glass of The Jem shared with the one (or ones) you love. It really doesn’t get better than that.
If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the usual tasting room visit, one that allows you to explore the land, learn from those who understand it deeply, and take in the natural beauty while tasting incredible wines, the Wine Drive Safari at Waterford is a must. It’s a journey into the heart of Stellenbosch’s winemaking, a chance to connect with the land and people behind each bottle, and an experience as layered and memorable as the wines themselves.
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