2022 Boekenhoutskloof, Semillon, Franschhoek, South Africa

The 2022 Sémillon comes from the same vineyards as previous vintages and includes 3% Muscat d'Alexandria. It was whole-bunch-pressed and matured for 14 months in 70% new oak, along with some concrete eggs and amphorae. The 2022 has a perfumed bouquet with yellow fruit, linseed and crushed stony scents, quite tight at the moment. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, perhaps not as complex as the superb 2021, but harmonious. Touches of peach skin, marzipan and crème brûlée emerge toward the finish. It will mature with style in bottle.

Drink 2025 - 2038

Creamy and textural, with complex layers and aromas of almond, waxed lemon, thyme, persimmon and fragrant apricot. Cedar, too. Full-bodied but with wonderful freshness. Full of fruit on the palate with a very long finish. From old vines planted in 1902, 1942 and 1936. Vinified 70% in new oak and 30% in concrete egg. Drink or hold.

"Wow!". That sums up what I feel about the latest vintage of this stunning Semillon from three parcels in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942. One of the Cape's greatest whites, made by one of its most talented winemakers in Gottfried Mocke, it has aromas of saffron, lanolin and nutmeg, stylish 70% new wood, a touch of petrichor and aniseed and layers of citrus, lemongrass and gunflint.

Drink 2026 - 2035