Kershaw, GPS Cape South Coast Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2022

Kershaw 'GPS Series' Cape South Coast Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2022 is a distinguished white blend from South Africa's Cape South Coast, crafted by the esteemed Kershaw Wines. Founded by Master of Wine Richard Kershaw in 2012, the winery is celebrated for producing clonally selected, site-specific, cool-climate wines that express the unique terroir of their origins. The 'GPS Series' (Grape Positioning System) focuses on small parcels of exceptional fruit selected from carefully chosen vineyards outside the Elgin Valley, showcasing the diversity of South African terroirs.

The 2022 vintage is a blend of 54% Sauvignon Blanc and 46% Semillon. The Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from a low-yielding, trellised Smart-Dyson vineyard in Elgin, which allows for better aeration and optimal ripening. The Semillon comes from an old parcel in the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, notable for showing elements of Semillon Gris grapes. The winemaking process involves slow, cool fermentation for both varieties, with the wine resting on its lees for approximately four months to enhance texture and complexity. A selection of artisanal Burgundian coopers provided French oak barrels for maturation, with 22% being new oak and the remainder split evenly between first and second fill barrels.

Appearance: Pale straw with green hues, bright and crystal clear. The wine’s brilliance suggests freshness and vibrancy, while a light viscosity hints at the Semillon’s contribution to texture. As the wine swirls in the glass, fine, slow-moving legs appear, suggesting a balance between freshness and weight. The clarity of the wine reflects its precision and careful winemaking.

Aroma: The nose is expressive and inviting, offering pronounced notes of nettle, apple blossom, mandarin zest, and jasmine. Subtle hints of cream soda and fresh bread add complexity, while delicate floral undertones provide an intriguing aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a harmonious balance between fruit and acidity. Flavours of green mango, lime marmalade, and lemon curd are complemented by a minerally undertone, likely derived from the unique terroir of the vineyards. The integration of French oak imparts subtle notes of vanilla and spice, adding depth and complexity to the mid-palate. The wine's structure is reinforced by a creamy texture, contributing to its complexity and depth.

Finish: The finish is extended and persistent, with the concentrated fruit and lively acidity leaving a lasting impression. The harmonious balance between the ripe fruit flavours, subtle oak influence, and fine minerality ensures a refined and satisfying conclusion.

Food Pairing: This Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes such as seared scallops or lobster bisque, where the wine's acidity balances the richness of the dish. It also complements creamy poultry dishes like chicken Alfredo or turkey tetrazzini, enhancing the savoury depth. For a vegetarian option, consider a decadent truffle risotto or wild mushroom tagliatelle, as the wine's minerality and freshness harmonize with the earthy umami flavours.

The Kershaw 'GPS Series' Cape South Coast Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2022 exemplifies the winery's dedication to producing wines that are both expressive and reflective of their terroir, offering wine enthusiasts a nuanced and memorable tasting experience.