The story of South African Semillon is one of revival, history, and distinctiveness, deeply intertwined with the country’s winemaking traditions. Once the most widely planted grape in South Africa, Semillon has seen a renaissance in recent decades, particularly in regions like Franschhoek, where some of the country’s oldest vines still thrive.

Semillon arrived in South Africa with French Huguenot settlers in the late 17th century, making it one of the earliest European grape varieties to be cultivated in the Cape. It quickly became known as "Groendruif," meaning "green grape" in Afrikaans, due to the greenish hue of its berries. By the 19th century, Semillon had dominated South African vineyards, accounting for nearly 90% of the country’s grape plantings. At that time, Semillon was used mainly for producing bulk wines and fortified wines, but its prominence began to fade with the introduction of more fashionable varieties like Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc. By the mid-20th century, Semillon was almost forgotten, with only a few pockets of old vines remaining, particularly in Franschhoek.

The key turning point in the story of South African Semillon came when winemakers rediscovered these ancient vines in Franschhoek. These old bush vines, some over a century old, produced low yields of intensely flavored grapes, offering winemakers a unique opportunity to create high-quality, terroir-driven wines. Franschhoek, with its cooler climate and varied soil types, proved to be the perfect home for Semillon. Winemakers in the region began to experiment with these old vines, crafting wines that were complex, rich, and age-worthy. As a result, Franschhoek Semillon earned a reputation as one of South Africa's most distinctive white wines.

While historically Semillon was often blended or used in bulk wine production, modern South African winemakers have embraced the grape’s full potential. Today, Semillon is either made as a single-varietal wine or blended with Sauvignon Blanc in a Bordeaux Blanc style, a combination that brings out the best of both grapes. The cooler regions of Stellenbosch, Elgin, and even coastal areas like Durbanville have started producing Semillon, but Franschhoek remains the heart of its revival. Winemakers have experimented with different techniques such as barrel fermentation and extended skin contact to enhance the wine's structure and complexity.

Semillon’s ability to age gracefully has also attracted attention. Over time, it can develop honeyed, nutty, and waxy characteristics, making it highly sought after by collectors. Older vintages often show remarkable depth and flavor development, further cementing its reputation.

Modern Semillon Styles:

South African Semillon today comes in a variety of styles, from fresh and zesty to rich and opulent:

Fresh, Stainless-Steel Fermented Semillon: These wines are lighter and more aromatic, showcasing bright citrus, green apple, and herbaceous notes. They tend to be crisp and refreshing, with a clean, mineral finish.
  
Barrel-Fermented Semillon: A more traditional style, where the wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels, creating a fuller-bodied wine with creamy textures and flavors of vanilla, toasted nuts, and honey. These wines have greater complexity and can be aged for many years.

Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc Blends: Semillon is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to create Bordeaux-style white blends. The Semillon adds weight and richness, while the Sauvignon Blanc contributes acidity and vibrant aromatics.

Several South African winemakers have gained international recognition for their exceptional Semillons. Producers in Franschhoek, such as Boekenhoutskloof and La Motte, have been at the forefront of the Semillon resurgence. These wineries have demonstrated that South African Semillon can rival the best from regions like Bordeaux and Australia’s Hunter Valley. These wines have garnered numerous accolades at international wine competitions, further highlighting their quality and age-worthiness. As a result, Semillon’s reputation has been restored, and it is now seen as a jewel in South Africa’s white wine crown.

The story of South African Semillon is one of rediscovery and reinvention. From its early dominance in the 19th century to near extinction, and finally, its revival in the hands of modern winemakers, Semillon has proven its resilience and value. Today, it stands as a symbol of South Africa's rich wine heritage and its future potential. With its unique combination of freshness, complexity, and aging potential, Semillon continues to captivate wine lovers, particularly those seeking a deeper connection to South Africa's winemaking history.