2018 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+-year-old vineyard of half Palomino and half Chenin Blanc just 2 km from the Atlantic Ocean. The soils here are very chalky, a type of soil that Sadie likens to the white albariza of Andalucía. Fitting then that the vines here are 50% Palomino. This is also one of the coolest parts of the Swartland, yet also a very dry location (with an average rainfall of around 300 mm per year), which naturally restricts the yields and concentrates the fruit, magnifying the vineyards' characteristic saline intensity. This parcel produces an average, tiny yield of 24 hl/ha. 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. There is both a lovely pulpy core of fruit, (notes of grapefruit, white florals, anise, lemon curd and nutty complexity) and a bracing freshness, as well as a pungent salty minerality on the lingering finish. Pretty much as close as an unfortified white can get to a great Manzanilla Pasada.

Other Reviews....
The 2017 Skerpioen is an equal blend of Chenin Blanc and Palomino from 80-year-old unirrigated vines on pure limestone soils. It has a crisp, marine-influenced, cockle-shell-scented bouquet, veering toward Chablis in style. The palate is beautifully balanced, with a fine line of acidity, and very saline in the mouth. Walnut and a dab of ginger emerge toward the finish. Excellent."
93 points
Vinous