2015 Skerpioen
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Tasting notes
(14%; aged in a concrete egg and old vats; from old vines planted on chalky soil in one of the coolest locations in the Swartland): Pale, clear straw-yellow. Sexy, subtly complex scents of lanolin, apple, smoky minerals, elderflower and botanical herbs; smells salty! Then wonderfully supple yet penetrating and firm in the mouth, offering terrific definition and lift to its lemon and saline flavors; as brisk as this is, it's also got terrific breadth and texture without weight. Even more closed than the 2014 was two years ago but this should make a brilliant bottle in two or three years and last well. A bit less fruity than the Skurfberg but even chewier and more vibrant, and long on the uncompromisingly dry finish. Really stimulates the olfactories.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2015 Old Vine Series Skerpioen is the Chenin/Palomino cuvée. It is reticent on the nose and demands encouragement, with slight resinous scents with a touch of Jasmine. The palate is where the character lies with walnut, orange rind, potent salinity and an effervescent, vivacious spiciness towards the finish that is driven along by the acidity (the highest among Eben's OVS series in this vintage). This is excellent.
About the producer
Since he started making wine under his own name in 2000, Eben Sadie became a cult name in South Africa. The Swartland producer is best known for his flagship Columella and Palladius, but he also makes a range of whites and reds under the Old Vine Series, which became the District Series in 2025.