Franschhoek Sémillon 2024 Damascene

Classification	Cru Classe
Type	White
Producer	Damascene
Vintage	2024
Country	South Africa
Grape	Semillon
Volume	0,75
Condition	Perfect
Label	Perfect
Drinkable	2026-2044
Stock	12

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (95)

The Damascene 2024 Franschhoek Semillon comes from old bush vines planted in 1932 and 1962 on decomposed Table Mountain sandstone. It was whole-bunch pressed on a Champagne cycle before spontaneous fermentation and 11 months of aging in oval Austrian oak vats. The bouquet is elegant and layered, with preserved lemon, apricot and sweet nuttiness carried by a medium- to full-bodied palate that remains poised and refined. These ancient sandstone soils, low in fertility and high in drainage, contribute to the wine’s tension and longevity. Production totals 2,746 bottles.

James Suckling (94)

This vibrant white shows pineapples, beeswax, lemon leaves, sage and licorice on the nose. It’s full-bodied but sharp and lively, with a waxy texture and racy acidity. Persistent. Drink or hold.

Vinous (92)

The 2024 Sémillon Old Bush Vines Franschhoek comes from vines planted in 1932 and 1962, whole cluster pressed and matured in oval Austrian oak for 11 months. This has a reserved bouquet at first, then unfurls with light walnut oil and resin aromas that are well defined. The palate is well balanced with a slightly viscous entry, a little tangy in style with a dash of lemongrass towards the spicy finish. Quite a cerebral Sémillon that deserves a couple of years in bottle to show what it can do. There's real complexity here.