Saurwein new releases

If you’ve got time on your hands, then engage Jessica Saurwein about establishing a worm farm, live worms producing nutrient-dense fertiliser. Saurwein, husband Roland Peens and children moved to Waterval farm in the Stanford foothills in August 2021 and are fully committed to regenerative agriculture. She’s been making wine under her own label since 2015 and for the meantime she will continue to buy grapes from carefully selected sites elsewhere in the winelands. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Chi Riesling 2024
Price: R240 (also available in magnum at R590)
For the first time, 40% of grapes were sourced from Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in addition to 60% from Elgin as has been the case in the past. Hints of jasmine, pear, lime and green apple on the nose. Good fruit concentration, driving acidity and a pithy finish. Lovely balance and vibrancy without being too insubstantial – alcohol is 11% and RS is 11.5g/l.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Nom Pinot Noir 2023
Price: R555
W.O. Elandskloof. Matured for 10 months in 228-litre barrels, partially % new. Musk, cherry, a hint of orange and white pepper on the nose. The palate is pure and fresh with crunchy tannins – light and vital yet no shortage of flavour. Poised and elegant. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Om Pinot Noir 2023
Price: R555
W.O. Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Matured for 10 months in 228-litre barrels, partially new. Dark cherry, earth and spice. The palate has impressive structure – good fruit density, fresh acidity and firm but not coarse tannins, the finish deeply savoury. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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