Boekenhoutskloof Branco

Description

Boekenhoutskloof Este Semillon is crafted from vines certified as viticultural heritage, some of the oldest in South Africa. Three distinct vineyards from the Franschhoek region, fully adapted to their terroirs, yield wines with impressive depth and complexity. Thanks to their deep root systems and high pulp-to-skin ratio, these old vines produce highly structured wines with remarkable ageing potential. Two of the vineyards—planted in 1902 and 1942—are dry, bush‑vine old‑vine plots located on a nearly flat stretch of the former riverbed of Franschhoek. The soils are alluvial, rich in silt and organic matter. The third vineyard, planted in 1936, sits higher up the valley on a south‑facing slope at a 45° angle, on granite and decomposed quartzite soils. Some of these vines have naturally evolved from Semillon to Semillon Gris, producing a slight pinkish hue and a higher skin proportion, which requires a longer maturation period—hence a second harvest. To accentuate the final batch’s aromatic profile, a small portion of Muscat d’Alexandrie, also from a centennial vine (planted in 1902), was included. The 2021 harvest benefited from humid climatic conditions and mild nighttime temperatures, fostering a slow and balanced ripening. The vines displayed healthy vegetation and dense canopies, enabling a gradual and meticulous harvest. The result: a wine with vibrant minerality and a seductive profile. Vinification: The grapes were pressed whole and fermented spontaneously in 225‑L French oak barrels and concrete vats. The aging phase lasted 14 months at low temperatures and without the addition of sulfites: 70% of the wine aged in new French oak barrels, while the remaining 30% spent time in concrete vats. This controlled oxidative approach highlights the natural texture of old‑vine Semillon, giving it structure and longevity. The Muscat d’Alexandrie fermented with skins and aged in clay amphorae. Analytical parameters: Residual Sugar: 1.50 g/L | Total Acidity: 5.20 g/L | pH: 3.26. Denomination of Origin (W.O.): Franschhoek.