- Tax included.
The Cape Winemakers Guild Waterford Auction Reserve 2003 is a brilliant expression of ripeness, structure, and balance. It opens with aromas of black plum, cassis, mocha, cigar box, and subtle forest undertones. The texture is creamy yet taut, with refined tannins that give the wine an aristocratic depth. The 2003 edition is one of the most awarded Waterford Cape Winemakers Guild releases and is known for its complexity and powerful yet elegant style.
This wine hails from the sunny yet cool terroirs of the Helderberg Mountains. The False Bay sea breeze plays a crucial role in preserving freshness, while the granite and sandstone soils provide structure, minerality, and deep aromatic expression. The area's topography—rolling slopes with ideal sun exposure—contributes to its exceptional quality.
Waterford Estate was founded on the philosophy that wine needs time, tranquility, and precision to reach its full potential. Within the Cape Winemakers Guild, the estate was highly regarded for its balance between classic structure and modern refinement. The Cape Winemakers Guild Auction Reserve 2003 is considered one of their most iconic releases, sought after by collectors worldwide.
Cape Winemakers Guild
The Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) is one of the world's most prestigious wine collectives. Since its founding in 1982, the Guild has brought together a select group of South Africa's most influential winemakers. Members are admitted by invitation only, and only when they have proven that their work elevates the quality, innovation, and international reputation of the South African wine industry. The CWG is therefore not just an association, but an elite platform where craftsmanship, understanding of terroir, and creative freedom are central.
What makes the CWG truly unique are the special wines created annually exclusively for the Cape Winemakers Guild Auction . These are not regular cuvées: each winemaker develops a limited micro-cuvée available only through the CWG. These wines are often more expressive, bolder, or more experimental in character, showcasing the absolute pinnacle of a producer's capabilities. Thanks to their rarity, quality, and reputation, CWG wines are sought after by international collectors and often reflect the evolution of South African wine.
Besides producing unique wines, the Guild plays a significant role in education, knowledge sharing, and talent development. Through its Protégé Programme, the CWG invests heavily in young winemakers who are shaping the future of the South African wine landscape. Through mentorship programs, practical training, and access to leading wineries, the Guild creates opportunities that would otherwise be virtually inaccessible. This commitment to growth and professionalization has had a significant impact on the growing global appreciation for South African wines.
While the Cape Winemakers Guild is deeply rooted in tradition, innovation remains a key pillar. Members often work with old vineyards, new fermentation techniques, sustainable agriculture, and experimental blends. The Guild's creativity has led to CWG wines regularly receiving international acclaim for their complexity, elegance, and vision. Each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, terroir, and the winemaker's unique signature.
Today, the Cape Winemakers Guild is both a quality mark and a cultural institution within the South African wine world. Its annual auction attracts buyers from around the world, and CWG wines are known for their investment value, collectibility, and exceptional character. Their limited editions and iconic status make them an essential category for enthusiasts seeking to discover or offer the finest South African wine.