Saurwein Chi Riesling 2020

Until now, Chi Riesling from Jessica Saurwein has been made entirely from grapes grown on Casey’s Ridge, the Elgin property owned by Vrede en Lust but the newly released 2020 includes a 40% portion from Paul Cluver and production has been increased to 5 900 bottles.

Spontaneous fermentation took place in tank and lasted about six weeks until optimal balance between sugar and acidity was achieved (RS is 7,8g/l and TA is 7,0g/l). The 2020 currently comes across as rather primary with pretty aromatics of orchard blossom, peach and green apple plus a little reduction while the palate has plenty of juicy fruit and seems a little plumper than its predecessors. It’s easy enough to like now but six to 12 months in bottle should see it come into its own. Price: R200.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

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