Semillon, Boekenhoutskloof 2021

The 2021 Semillon comes from two vineyards, one planted in 1942 (white sand plus granite) and another in 1902 (granite with quartz). It was whole bunch pressed and aged for 14 months in 70% new French oak. Blended with 3% Muscat d’Alexandria, also planted in 1902, it has a delineated, lanolin-yinged bouquet with a hint of green olive. The palate is beautiful, waxy in texture, with veins of lemongrass and lemon thyme, detailed and poised with impressive concentration on the finish. This will be a serious long-term Semillon, and I know from first hand experience how brilliantly they can age in bottle. This will be released in 2024. Drink 2026-2050.

Always an excellent semillon, textured and compact. Complex aromas of apricots, beeswax, Asian pears and hints of white chocolate. Some almonds. Medium- to full-bodied with a long, creamy finish. From old vines planted in 1902, 1942 and 1936. Drink or hold.

Boekenhoutskloof's world-class Semillon uses grapes from three distinct blocks in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, combining these with 3% Muscat d'Alexandrie. Showing more acidity and restraint than the stunning 2020, and less of the struck match character, it has notes of lemongrass, custard and beeswax and a core of chiselled acidity. Needs more time. Drink 2024-32.