Eben Sadie is considered one of the great visionaries and preservationists among South African winemakers. He is outspoken about his obsession with terroir and making sure the Swartland region is recognized as a place to make exceptional, authentic and highly coveted wines.

Steen (Chenin Blanc) and Vaalblaar (Palomino) from St Helena Bay in the Swarltand. Limestone soils match the color of the capsule. Lots of scorpions in these vineyards hence Skerpioen. Natural fermentation and aging in neutral casks, bottled directly off the lees. Chamomile, straw, saline.

Skerpioen (Scorpion) is a wine from a very unique location halfway between Dwarskersbos and Elands Bay on the West Coast. One of the most amazing aspects of this location is the fact that the soils are chalky (limestone). In addition to that it is one of the coolest parts of the Swartland region, located a mere 2km from the Atlantic Ocean, but it is also a very dry area with an average rainfall of around 300mm per year. This location is home to some of the most intense south-easterly winds and the old vines look almost abused after having been battered by winds and blowing sand for years and years.

Tasting Notes: The 2024 Skerpioen displays peach and citrus flavours and a touch of tropical aspects,
migrating to the trademark salty brine characteristics associated with this vineyard. This 2024 vintage has a slightly lower acidity than usual, and the aromatics suggest it can be enjoyed earlier. The Skerpioen is one of our white wines that are the first to be ready for enjoyment in our range of whites. 

Food Pairing:  Oysters (especially with lemon), Ceviche, or Sashimi. Grilled/Rich Seafood: Grilled prawns, lobster with herb butter, or cod fillet. Creamy risotto, feta salads, or dishes with citrus and herbs. The wine is characterized by its coastal, maritime influence, making it a natural fit for briny and light-bodied, fresh dishes.

From a Swartland vineyard co-planted to Chenin Blanc and Palamino. Matured for 12 months in cask. A heady, exotic nose with notes of lemon, orange, peach, melon, floral perfume and fynbos. The palate is dense and somewhat atypical – fruit appears sweet-toned and the structure a little flat, despite analysis suggesting otherwise. Already quite forward in its evolution. A curious vintage, not without intrigue. Alc: 13%. CE’s rating: 93/100.

ANALYSIS: ALC 13% | TA 5.8g/L | pH 3.23 | RS 1.7g/L