Description
Region
Semillon was historically one of the most important varieties in South Africa and dominated total plantings for over 300 years. Officially named Groendruif, it was only identified as Semillon in the early 1920’s while a curious mutation developed over time resulting in vines with pink-red pigmented grapes. This mutation farmers called Rooi-Groendruif. A rarity and truly indigenous grape varietal.
Grapes and Vineyards
From an old 1963 vineyard, plant material was selected of a few vines yearly showing this mutation. Over a 10-year period, this material was propagated and re-selected to be rooted as the first Semillon ‘gris’ vineyards in the world, as it is not found anywhere else. Planted on deep loam soil on the valley floor, this vineyard has access to moisture in the driest of years.
Vinification
Experimentation is an ongoing exercise to help understand how to emphasise the characteristics of the variety in the best natural way. Since colour and flavour is situated in the skins, fermentation are done
with a touch of skin contact, predominantly coldsoaking up to 5 days. The results are tasted, analysed, and blended with cultivar expression in mind. No fining or filtration with a low sulphur content.
Winemaker’s comments
The 2024 vintage has hues of pale gold. Aromas of peach blossom and honeysuckle turns to dusty crushed stone. Tart yellow orchard fruit tantalise on the palate with crunchy quince, tart green plums and
juicy peach. The textured palate is tightly interwoven with all-spice and roast coriander seeds fresh ginger and green tea. The wine finishes flinty and mineral with a slight tannin structure and soft
but well-accentuated acidity. A perfect introduction to this unique grape variety, drinking beautifully early, but will reward in layers with some further aging.
