Sadie Family Swartland Kokerboom Semillon 2024

Citrusdal Mountain. Following the Citrusdal Valley north towards Clanwilliam, we come to Sadie’s highest vineyard, Kokerboom. Named for the striking aloe plants that grow near the vines, Kokerboom was planted on Table Mountain sandstone in the 1930s and is now home to one of Swartland’s few remaining plantings of old-vine Semillon. This variety once made up 80% of South Africa’s plantings. The site was owned and managed by Henk Laing until his recent death, and Sadie says that this “is one of the most pristine old vineyards we know. No herbicides or artificial fertilisers have ever been used on it, and it has been perfectly pruned over the years. The downside is that it is small and low yielding.”

Kokerboom is a field blend of Semillon Blanc and Semillon Gris, the latter contributing 15-30%, depending on the year. Both Semillons were picked and pressed together and raised in large-format oak. Thanks to its solar exposition, the Semillon ripens exceptionally well and has little to none of the tart herbaceousness sometimes associated with the grape. Instead, Semillon from this site is known for its ripe lime characters, chamomile notes and waxy texture. “The tannins, acidity, overall texture, and volume in the wine are incredible, and we are in awe of the power of this terroir,” says Eben. The 2024 wine showcases the fresher side of this vineyard.

“Sliced pears, beeswax, grapefruit, wild herbs and juniper berries on the nose of this full-bodied, creamy white. Lots of weight and layering, with a waxy yet fresh feel. Spicy, long finish. Exciting hint of ginger and tobacco at the very end. Co-planted semillon and semillon gris.” 96 points, JamesSuckling.com

“Kokerboom combines Semillon with 30% of its mutation Semillon Gris, all within the same vineyard on Citrusdal Mountain. More restrained and focused than it can be, the 2024 release has flavours of clementine, citrus and a hint of peach, a waxy undertone, a top note of fennel and a refreshing finish. 2027-31.” 95 points, Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Special Report 2025