Description
History
Semillon was one of the first grapes to arrive in South Africa in the
1600’s with the Dutch settlers. The wine made from this variety soon
became a favourite and was affectionately named ‘Wijndruif’ or
‘Wine Grape’. Due to the green colour of the grapes, and the green
hues of the wine it was later officially named ‘Groendruif’or ‘Green
grape’. This name was kept for over 300 years and it became the
most planted and important grape variety in South Africa. With the
rise of the more versatile Chenin blanc, large numbers of Semillon
vineyards were uprooted in the last 100 years. Today, very few old
vine vineyards remain and is now celebrated for its heritage in South
Africa.
Vineyard
This vineyard was planted in 1963 as an unirrigated bush vine vines
on the lower lying, valley-bottom of the Siebritskloof. This was
historically believed to suit the grape variety of Semillon very well,
confirmed by the planting records of the old days. The vineyard was
mostly uprooted in the 1990’s but a small corner of the vineyard,
about 0.3 hectare, remained untouched and is farmed individually for
the last 15 years. The soil is loamy, organically rich and very well
drained. Since it was started to be farmed organically, the diversity in
soil life has significantly increased resulting also in healthier vines,
increased reserves and better quality grapes.
Winemaking
With its small size and yield, the vineyard is monitored carefully and
precisely timed to harvest at the desired ripeness. For optimal flavour
expression, the grape juice are left on skins for a couple of hours to
extract more flavours. It is then pressed and cold settled overnight
without fining agents or enzymes. The clean juice ferments
spontaneously with natural yeasts in 400L old seasoned barrels in a
cooled barrel cellar. Natural malolactic fermentation is also allowed.
The wine is aged on its fine lees without battonage for 12 months
before it is bottled. No additions other than sulphur is made and
bottled only with a light filtration.
Winemaker’s comments
This wine is all about expressing the terroir and vintage. The 2024
vintage started with good water availability and a warm, but forgiving
ripening period. Beautiful and delicate flavours marks this vintage,
with the unmistakable textures of Semillon on the palate. Citrus
blossoms, jasmine, bees wax and fynbos aromas invites the nose.
Delicate lemon peel and lime zest lead to a multi-layered palate with
peach and vanilla custard ending with chalky minerality. A wine
displaying the typical characteristics of the original ‘Groendruif’ clone
so typical of old Swartland plantings. Ready to drink but will reward
generously with further aging.
