Schaal new releases

Winemaking couple Julien and Sophie Schaal live in Alsace where they make Grand Cru Riesling but also long made a range of South African wines, Julien since 2005, Sophie joining in 2013 – the two first met while Sophie was working as an intern at Elgin cellar Paul Cluver. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Sophie Schaal Born of Fire Chenin Blanc 2022
Price: R205
Grapes from Voor Paardeberg. Partly matured in barrel. Pear, peach and floral perfume on the nose. The palate is fruit-led but not facile – pure, fresh and pithy. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Born of Fire Syrah 2021, which rated 92 on release, still available at R205 a bottle.

Julien Schaal Mountain Vineyards Chardonnay 2023
Price: R195
From Elgin grapes, predominantly Paul Cluver but also Lothian. Two thirds matured in barrel, one-third in tank. Lemon, blossom, herbs, a touch of vanilla and a trace of struck-match reduction. The palate is nicely weighted, clean and poised – concentrated fruit matched by snappy acidity, the finish dry. Terrific quality relative to price.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Julien Schaal Mountain Vineyards Pinot Noir 2023
Price: R195
Previously from Elgin, this vintage incorporates grapes from Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge as well as the wider Walker Bay area. Some 10 – 20% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation in 25% new oak. Black cherry, violets and spice on the nose while the palate is balanced – good fruit expression and bright acidity before some light tannic grip on the finish. Really well judged.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.