Experience the extraordinary depth of the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Old Vine Semillon 2024, a masterclass in South African heritage viticulture. This vintage originates from a prestigious Swartland vineyard planted in 1963, where old clones of Semillon Blanc and Gris thrive on alluvial granite soils. You will discover a wine that avoids simple fruit aromatics in favor of complex, hauntingly beautiful layers. Specifically, the 2024 season produced a wine of immense power and sophistication, characterized by its impressive weight and seamless integration. Consequently, this bottle represents the pinnacle of “New Wave” winemaking, offering a textured experience that will continue to evolve in the cellar for years.
- 95 Points – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za (2024 Vintage)
- 92/100 – James Suckling (2024 Vintage)
- 96 Points – Greg Sherwood MW (Previous Vintages)
- 95+ Points – Tim Atkin MW (Consistently High Rating)
The nose opens with an expressive bouquet of peach, nectarine, and subtle hints of dried hay and beeswax. You will enjoy a thick, mouthcoating texture on the palate that balances rich fruit with a distinct umami quality. Furthermore, the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Old Vine Semillon 2024 displays a persistent, savory finish that reflects its minimal-intervention roots. Winemaker John Seccombe utilizes whole-bunch pressing and natural fermentation in old oak to preserve the vineyard’s unique voice. Because the team bottles the wine without fining or filtration, it retains its full structural integrity and natural brilliance. Therefore, this Semillon serves as an ideal partner for rich seafood dishes or aged goat’s cheese.