g.p.s. Cape south coast sauvignon blanc semillon
focus and purity with a blade of acidity
54% Sauvignon Blanc | 46% Semillon
In 2019 I discovered an old parcel of Semillon in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge that showed elements of Semillon Gris grapes. This was followed up in 2020 by a lower-yielding Sauvignon Blanc parcel in Elgin that is trellised Smart-Dyson, opening up the canopy and allowing better aeration.
Pale Lemon, the aromas are lifted with pronounced notes of nettle, apple blossom, tangerine peel, khakibos, yellow pepper and some jasmine. On entry, the wine is creamy and juicy underpinned by a bracing, vivacious acidity. Flavours of green mango, lime marmalade, fresh herbs, mange tout and lemon curd circulate in the mid-palate, providing a saline, celery stick and saliva-inducing mouthfeel. The delicate spice of oak is only just there adding complexity to a focused, delineated wine. Bone dry, there is a freshness and zesty spine to this concentrated wine that finishes long and satisfying. Will keep nicely over the next 3-5 years.
The wine stayed on its lees for around 4 months. A small number of artisanal coopers were selected, all from Burgundy and only French oak was chosen. Importantly, this wine was micro-vinified as a separate batch. Over the years we have developed an algorithm to ascertain which coopers work best and how many new and used barrels are utilised. In 2022 27% was new oak, and the remainder split evenly between 1st and 2nd fill barrels.
Alcohol: 13.48% | pH: 3.16 | RS: 1.5 g/l
R395
per 750ml
accolades for 2021
Platter's Wine Guide 2024
5*
iwsc
93/100
Silver medal
An appealing wine that shows elegance and character. Lime and gooseberry notes with just a tingle of spice. Mouthwatering finish.
Tim atkin
93/100
At 44%, the Semillon component of this blend with Sauvignon Blanc is slightly lower than in the 2020 release. The cooler, fresher vintage is apparent on this herbal, tangy, cream soda-scented white. Lovely, complex and nuanced, with layers of fresh bread and pink grapefruit. 2023-28.
-Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Report 2022
accolades for 2020
winemag Prescient sauvignon blanc report
95/100
top 10
best of category
Platter's Wine Guide 2022
4.5*
iwsc
97/100
Trophy winner
gold medal
A magnificently sensuous wine bursting with gorgeous notes of cool vanilla, lemon curd, poached guava, zesty citrus, juicy mango, succulent papaya and rich apricot yogurt. The finish is elegantly smooth with a delectable hint of oak and fresh lemon pith.
Tim atkin
93/100
Master of Wine Richard Kershaw combines Hemel-en-Aarde Semillon with 48% Elgin Sauvignon Blanc to produce this wild-fermented white Bordeaux style blend. Lightly wooded, with no malolactic influence, it's grapefruity and fresh, with a hint of cinnamon spice and lots of racy acidity. Very polished.
-Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Report 2021