Highlights: Veiled Vineyards Old Vine Semillon 2016 Franschhoek, South Africa
Veiled Vineyards Old Vine Semillon 2016 Franschhoek, South Africa
13.5% alcohol. This may be almost 9 years old, but it’s a recent release. It’s from two old-vine vineyards planted in 1942 and 1962, and some of the Semillon is gris, a colour mutation that’s taken place in the vineyard. The wine is brought to the market by Woodwinters, and it’s the brainchild of Andrew Johnson. The wine was bottled after 10 months in barrel and then 6 months in stainless steel. 1100 bottles made. This is quite rich and ripe, but has a freshness, too. Aromatics of smoky grapefruit with a nice green hint as well as honey, wax and apricot. Beautifully textured, finely spiced palate with a slight grainy quality, and a wide range of flavours, finishing fresh and crystalline. It’s really expressive. I love how this wine combines ripeness and freshness so well, and it’s evolving beautifully. 94/100 (Available in the UK from Woodwinters at £30)
