Cape Heritage and The Loire
Timed Online Auction, 1 - 12 August 2024
Cape Heritage - White Wines
About the SessionThe Cape Heritage White Wine Session features the noble variety, Chenin Blanc, known for its versatility and fruit intensity. South Africa has the oldest Chenin Blanc vines in the world and produces long-aging, diverse and fine wines.
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About this Item
Boekenhoutskloof, located in the Franschhoek valley, was established in 1776 and gets its name 'Boekenhout' from an indigenous Beech tree. Boekenhoutskloof, managed by Marc Kent, describes themself as a Syrah specialist. Their efforts in conservation can be seen through initiatives they have taken-on in their farm and surrounding areas. They are also a founding member of the Franschhoek Mountain Conservancy.
The Boekenhoutskloof Semillon has been predominantly sourced from one of the oldest vineyards in South Africa, planted in 1902 on alluvial soils with a high loam content. The age-worthy Bordeaux-styled white is one of SA’s most underrated wines. Now contains some Muscat planted in 1902.
Provenance
Wine Cellar Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Medium-intense, ripe notes of yellow melon, creamed orange, pineapple and lemon custard lead the nose of this rich yet well-balanced wine. There's a baking spice overlay to the nose as well, though the ripe fruit dominates. The palate is quite round and spicy as well, with loads of ripe, mouthfilling melon and citrus oil flavors that are cut by ample acidity. Orange blossom tea and spiced almond accents unfold on the lengthy finish. Drink 2020–2025.’ – Lauren Buzzeo, Wine Enthusiast, 91/100 (May 2019)
‘Sublime, with creamed tangerine, orange and nectarine flavors that are seamless and lengthy, laced with paraffin, verbena, bitter almond and orange blossom accents along the way. The long and very refined finish lets a flash of citrus oil linger longest. Drink now through 2028.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 93/100 (Oct 2018)
‘For the first time ever in 2015, this top end Semillon didn’t include any Sauvignon Blanc because “it didn’t need it”, according to Marc Kent. Beeswax, grapefruit and fresh herb flavours dominate the palate, embellished by subtle wood and a whisper of passion fruit. 2017-23’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2017, 94/100
‘The 2015 Semillon, which will be released in Fall 2017, includes 10% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Muscat from a vineyard planted in 1942. Now, the aromatics are quite different from the 2014, perhaps more mineral and complex with melted wax and cold stone infusing the yellow fruit. The palate is well balanced with a slightly oily textured entry. This is well balanced with fine acidity, a little spicier than the 2014 with hints of ginger infusing the citrus fruit and praline towards the finish. This comes recommended. This aspires to more.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 91/100 (Apr 2017)
‘Great aromatic, green-grassy nose comes floating out of the glass. Masses of sweet but contained fruit. I challenge anyone not to like this! Like a Pessac-Léognan but ultra-accessible. Smokiness on the nose.’ – Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17/20 (Oct 2017)