Boekenhoutskloof Semillon 2011

This South African winery, established in 1776, is now considered to be one of the five top producers in the country and one of the most active in the sensational Franschhoek Valley. With a change of ownership in 1993 the winery initiated a radical review of its wines, increasing production of Cabernet Sauvignon from 6,000 bottles to over 3,000,000 today. The 20 hectares of vines are cultivated organically but grapes are also purchased from other vineyards.  Distinguished by its commitment to the environment, the winery practices organic viticulture using natural yeasts and dispensing with new oak for  the production of its wines.

Appearance

Appealing straw yellow colour with hints of gold. Very bright.

Nose

Combines aromas of stone fruit such as peach and apricot with floral notes and citrus touches reminiscent of orange skin. A suggestion of dried fruits gradually Becomes apparent as well as the vanilla, which derives from ageing in wood.

Palate

Very rounded and elegant, with well integrated oak and finely balanced acidity. Medium to long finish.

Comment

This wine, which is made from 95% Semillon grapes with 5% Sauvignon Blanc produced from 110 year-old vines, is considered to be one of South Africa’s most admired and sought out white wines. It has been aged for 13 months in barriques from the French barrel maker Saury. The 2011 reminds us of a fine French Viognier thanks to its full character, but the small percentage of Sauvignon Blanc adds a certain freshness and bite. The result is an elegant, complex and well-textured wine with a long and persistent aftertaste.

Ideal with tartare of wild bass.