2022 Sadie Family Swartland Skerpioen Chenin Blanc Palomino

Named after the abundant native scorpions that make their home here, Skerpioen is an unirrigated, 2.4-hectare, 80-plus-year-old vineyard of half Palomino and half Chenin Blanc, just 2km from the Atlantic Ocean and overlooking the Elands Bay. The soils here are very sandy and chalky, a type that Sadie likens to the white albarizas of Andalucía (fitting then that the vines here are 50% Palomino). This is one of the coolest parts of the Swartland yet it’s also a very dry location (with an average rainfall of only around 300mm per year). This naturally restricts the yields and concentrates the fruit, magnifying the vineyards’ characteristic saline intensity. This parcel produces a tiny yield of 24 hl/ha on average. The grapes are picked and pressed together and naturally co-ferment in old wooden casks. The result is a stunning and complex white that is completely unique. As always, this is Sadie’s most mineral, racy and low alcohol white.

Other Review....
Made from Chenin Blanc and Palomino, the 2022 Old Vine Series Skerpioen displays aromas of wax melon with hints of sea spray and lemon skin before offering a dusty floral essence. Medium-bodied and with excellent mineral tension, the palate bursts to life with energetic acidity, showing layers of freshness and complexity before ending with a lively, food-friendly finish. Only 7,400 bottles were produced of this gorgeous wine. Drink 2023 - 2037.
96 points
Anthony Mueller - Wine Advocate (Dec 30, 2023)

The 2022 Skerpioen is a blend of Chenin Blanc and Palomino cultivated on limestone soils, whole bunch pressed directly into old foudres. It has a touch of walnut and smoke on the nose, just a slight flor-like note. The palate is well-balanced with a fine bead of acidity, very saline compared to its peers, with grapefruit and lemon rind touches. Taut and linear, it's a wine that I would afford three or four years in bottle. Drink 2024-2038.
92 points
Neal Martin - Vinous

Lemon verbena, white grapefruit, mangosteen and white Asian pears. Hints of white flowers and blanched almonds. It’s wonderfully fresh, bright and textured, with a saltiness and chalky minerality coming through. Still tightly wound, but opens up and does not lack concentration. Co-pressed and co-fermented 50% chenin blanc and 50% palomino. Try from 2024.
96 points
James Suckling