White South African Boekenhoutskloof Semillon
White South African Boekenhoutskloof Semillon 2021 wine
Winemaker Marc Kent has been instrumental in establishing Franschhoek as a renowned region for premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, thanks to his innovative approach and deep understanding of the local terroir. Boekenhoutskloof’s headquarters are located in a picturesque old farmhouse dating back to 1776 on the outskirts of the Franschhoek valley. It wasn’t until 1993 that the modern winery was set up here, along with the planting of vineyards.
This exceptional Cabernet is a fine representation of Marc’s winemaking expertise, made from high-quality grapes sourced from four specific plots grown in sandy loam soils on the Franschhoek estate. Marc aimed to produce a classic Bordeaux-style wine that also highlights the unique character of the Franschhoek grapes. The grapes were handled delicately through manual harvesting, cold maceration in concrete tanks, and aging in traditional 225-liter oak barrels.
The outcome is a rich and complex Cabernet displaying lush cassis, blueberry, and dark cherry aromas, complemented by hints of cigar box and tobacco leaf. The palate delivers a velvety texture, structured tannins, and a full body with abundant flavors of ripe dark fruits that linger on the finish. This wine has excellent potential for aging, yet it can also be enjoyed now, especially when paired with dishes like barbecued ribs, steak, or fresh pappardelle pasta topped with wild bo
White South African Boekenhoutskloof Semillon 2021 wine
Decanting is unnecessary, but it’s recommended to open the wine half an hour before serving. Boekenhoutskloof Winery, situated in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, is a small winery established in 1776 and later refurbished in the early 1990s. The winery, known for its commitment to biodiversity, crafts a diverse selection of top-quality wines such as Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Viognier, and Semillon.
The Semillon grapes used come from three vineyards in Franschhoek, planted in the early 1902, 1936, and 1942, making them the oldest Semillon vineyards in South Africa. The alluvial soils with high clay content and low yields ensure the production of exceptional wines with great aging potential. Following spontaneous fermentation in barriques and cement eggs, the wine matures for 14 months in a combination of barriques and cement barrels.
Boekenhoutskloof Semillon is a vibrant and fresh wine with a wide and subtle aromatic profile featuring floral scents like jasmine, chamomile, and orange blossom, complemented by notes of mandarin, nettle, and oregano. The palate showcases a similar complexity of flavors with a dry and lively taste, medium body, gentle acidity, and a pleasant mineral undertone. It is invigorating, lean, and brisk with a crisp,
Red California Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel 2021 wine
The history of Bogle Winery dates back to the 1870s when Captain AJ Boyle, a Civil War soldier, left Tennessee with his nephew Samuel to start a new life in California. Since then, the family has been farming in Clarksburg and eventually began growing grapes to sell to local wineries by the fourth generation. Today, the estate is managed by siblings Warren, Jody, and Ryan, representing the sixth generation of the family to work the land.
They are dedicated to preserving the estate for future generations of Bogles by adopting sustainable and eco-friendly winemaking practices, such as adhering to California Rules for Sustainability and attaining Certified Green status for the vineyard. One of their notable wines, the Old Vine Zinfandel, is a bold red wine with rich dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a long finish. It offers a full body with hints of cassis, oak, and smoke, complemented by black pepper notes.
This robust wine pairs well with red meats or can be savored on its own by a cozy fireside.
Red California Bogle Merlot 2021 wine
It is suggested to let it breathe for about 30 minutes. Situated near the Sacramento River, approximately a half-hour drive from Sacramento, the Bogle Winery is located in a serene and somewhat secluded area of California. Established in the 19th century, the estate saw its first vineyards planted in 1968.
Today, the winery remains a family-run business, with all members actively participating in day-to-day operations, resulting in a consistently high quality across their entire wine selection. Bogle Winery cultivates a variety of grapes including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. Their Bogle Merlot, exemplifies a rich California Merlot, aged in American oak barrels for 12 months.
Pouring a vibrant cherry red, it exudes enticing aromas of cherry, black plum, blackcurrants, and smoked meat with a touch of exotic spice and a hint of black pepper. The wine displays a lively and opulent character, with sturdy yet velvety tannins and notes of pipe tobacco and spiced oak that linger on the finish. This delightful wine pairs exceptionally well with a barbecue, grilled steak, meat sauce pasta, or oriental-spiced grilled chicken.