2016 Skerpioen
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Skerpioen from Sadie Family Winery is the only vintage not reviewed on Vinous and so why not fill in the gap? It is a brilliant Chenin Blanc and Palomino blend; there’s a razor-sharp definition on the nose with scents of seaweed and sea spray, a background of flinty aromas emerging with time. The palate offers exquisite balance thanks to its silver bead of acidity, that marine theme continuing towards its almost balletic, graceful finish with hazelnut and a pistachio hint on the aftertaste. I often think that Sadie’s Old Vine Series wines are drunk too young, and this wine not only benefits from a bit of bottle age but will clearly give another 15-20 years of drinking pleasure. Incidentally, not wishing to waste, the bottle is brought home and tastes just as good 24 hours later.
Critic scores
Neal Martin
About the producer
Since he started making wine under his own name in 2000, Eben Sadie became a cult name in South Africa. The Swartland producer is best known for his flagship Columella and Palladius, but he also makes a range of whites and reds under the Old Vine Series, which became the District Series in 2025.