Flat Roof Manor Semillon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa 13.5%

Flat Roof Manor is an individual and unpretentious range made by Uitkyk Estate winemaker Estelle Lourens. She joined Uitkyk in 2000 after time at Tatachilla in Australia, Simi Cellar in California and three years at neigh-bouring Neethlingshof. Having overseen an impressive leap in quality at this historic estate, Estelle wanted to produce her own wines. The aim was not to make tiny quantities of really expensive wine, but to produce something quirky and characterful at a good price. In 2006 she started Flat Roof Manor, with the grapes from nearby vineyards vinified at Uitkyk, and this Semillon is the impressive first result. ‘Lemony 06 with 15% Sauvignon gains breadth from 5 months lees and barrelled component; pithy, firm finish, will stand up to curries. Good value. 3.5 stars’ John Platter’s Wine Guide Gooseberry and cut grass aromas with a touch of lemon and allspice. Ageing on yeast lees have given some additional complexity to the melon, lanolin, citrus and leafy flavours. Nice long, clean finish.

Country : South Africa

Type : White

Bottle Size : 75cl

Vintage : 2006

ABV : 13.5%