Eben Sadie focuses on vineyard location and vineyard choices when making his wines. Skerpioen is an interesting blend of Chenin Blanc and Palomino. Palomino is the principal grape in most Spanish Sherry but, less commonly known, it was also widely planted in South Africa but has receded to less than 500 hectares in recent decades. Meanwhile, Chenin Blanc is a South African staple that is growing in export market popularity. Skerpioen’s old vines are planted in wind-swept limestone in a low-precipitation microclimate. The wine is quite complex. The body has plenty of acidity but a touch of residual sugar makes it instantly approachable. Tree fruit, tropical fruit, floral notes, saline and minerality provide nuance to each sip. Overall, the wine’s quality is outstanding. The winery recommends drinking the 2021 vintage in 2026 with a strong caveat that it is also ready to drink now. My recommendation: Buy two. One for now and one for 2026.
Sadie Family Wines, Swartland (South Africa) 2021
By Vince Simmon