2023 Boekenhoutskloof, Semillon, Franschhoek 6x75cl

Tim Atkin 96

One of a handful of Cape whites that I buy most years and expect to cellar for a decade, this is a subtle, refined, early picked Franschhoek blend of Semillon and 3% Muscat d’Alexandrie. Deftly fermented in 70% new barrels, it has beguiling aromas of vanilla spice, cardamom and saffron, layers of tangerine, beeswax and fresh lemons and understated concentration. [Tim Atkin, MW, 03/02/2026]

Anticipated maturity: 2027-2036

Matthew Jukes 18.5

13.2% alc; 14 months in 70% new French oak barriques & 30% concrete eggs Given the Semillon warm-up afforded by the four wines above, instead of this wine being the first in the set, it was, unusually, the fifth! This meant it didn t have to pick any locks, since the door was wide open! Perhaps for this reason, this beauty slipped down a treat, with a seductive, wonderfully flattering welcome, and while it seemed almost too good to be true, I have no doubt it will tighten up over the next few months. It is interesting how some vintages show greater complexity and layers at different points in their evolution. Today, the Semillon Gris (some vines have mutated over time) portion looks spicy, white-pepper spiked, and ginger-lily smooched, bringing a lip-smacking immediacy to the experience. Yes, yes, and yes! [Matthew Jukes, 03/02/2026]