Skaliekop - Chenin Blanc

Chenin blanc | single vineyard | Paardeberg | skalie, graniet en klei terroir | geplukt in de 3 pluk ronde's | whole buch press | vergist op oude eikenhouten vaten | 12,5% |  enorme zuren | wax | honing | strak | prachtige aroma's in neus | decanteren aanbevolen 

The contrast of this wine is what we love to farm: shale in the Paardeberg…a shallow, shale rich hill (kop) is not very typical of the granite mountain of the Swartland. Planted in 1985, dry land farmed bush vines. The 2017 vintage is to date the most intense vintage in terms of Skaliekop. Grapes were picked very early due to the drought and heat in the vintage of 2017 and we managed to produce a wine that is low in alcohol, considering the vintage, with the most amazing acidity profile, ensuring longevity of the vintage. 

Review:

David & Nadia Skaliekop Chenin Blanc 2017, 12.5 Abv.

From vines planted on shale soils in 1985. A complex melange of waxy yellow fruits, incense, lanolin, marzipan and greengage plum fruits. Searing bright acids enliven the palate that shows vibrant concentration, hints of soap stone, white pepper and yellow orchard fruits. So pure, so precise and wonderfully elegant with a delicious tangy pear drop finish.

(Wine Safari Score: 95+/100 Greg Sherwood MW

David & Nadia Skaliekop Chenin Blanc 2018 

Swartland (13.5%) 

Skaliekop comes from comparatively rare shale soils on the Paardeberg and is more "lateral rather than linear" in structure, according to David Sadie, with considerable texture and breadth. Picked earlier because of its mid-slope position, it has aniseed and beeswax aromas, very little oak and wild herb top notes. 2021-26  - Tim Atkin MW 95/100