SAURWEIN Chi Riesling - Elgin 2022/23 Bottle 11.5%abv (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Saurwein Chi Riesling from Elgin is a vibrant and expressive wine that encapsulates the spirit of its region. The name "Chi," meaning "life force," also references CHIUTA, the African rain god, reflecting the vitality this wine embodies. The vineyard, located in the fertile Elgin Valley, benefits from a cool climate and rich soils ideal for high-quality Riesling.

This handcrafted wine showcases a delightful bouquet with fragrant notes of citrus blossom, yellow stone fruits, and white pear, complemented by hints of ginger and honey. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity and lively fruit flavours. Perfect for pairing with salads, fresh cheeses, and Asian-style dishes, Saurwein Chi Riesling invites you to enjoy its refreshing character and complexity.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Saurwein Chi Riesling from Elgin is a vibrant and expressive wine that encapsulates the spirit of the region and the essence of its name. "Chi," meaning "life force," and also referencing CHIUTA, the African rain god, reflects the vitality that this wine embodies. The vineyard is situated in the fertile Elgin Valley, which benefits from a cool climate and rich soils, creating the perfect environment for cultivating high-quality Riesling.

This handcrafted Riesling showcases a delightful array of aromas that evoke the freshness and vitality of the vineyard. On the nose, expect fragrant notes of citrus blossom, complemented by inviting aromas of yellow stone fruits and white pear. Subtle hints of ginger, Pina colada, and honeysuckle add intriguing layers to the aromatic profile, while a touch of flint provides a mineral complexity that enhances the overall experience.

On the palate, Saurwein Chi Riesling is crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity that showcases the stunning fruit character. The fusion of flavours creates a lively sip that is both invigorating and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for warm days or celebratory occasions.

This Riesling is particularly versatile when it comes to food pairings, making it ideal for complementing a variety of dishes. It pairs beautifully with salads, fresh cheeses, and Asian-style dishes that feature a hint of spice or sweetness, enhancing the dining experience and allowing the wine's flavours to shine.

Overall, Saurwein Chi Riesling captures the essence of the Elgin Valley, inviting you to embrace its refreshing and vibrant character. With its delightful complexity and refreshing finish, this wine is a true testament to the craftsmanship behind its creation. "May the 'Chi' be with you" as you enjoy this exceptional Riesling, celebrating the life force that it represents.

VINOUS 90 points
The 2023 Riesling Saurwein Chi comes from two sources and contains 14g/L residual sugar. The honeyed bouquet of peach and light Clementine scents is well-defined and, unsurprisingly, quite Germanic in style. The well-balanced palate has fine acidity, quite pure in style, apricot mixed with white peach and grapefruit, and fine weight on the finish. This will be difficult to resist in its youth, but it will age with style. - Neal Martin

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ABOUT SAURWEIN
Saurwein is a boutique winery located in the Elgin Valley of South Africa, a region renowned for its cool climate, which is ideal for producing high-quality wines. Situated in one of South Africa’s most picturesque wine areas, Saurwein is dedicated to crafting artisanal wines that exemplify the purity and uniqueness of the Elgin terroir.

The winery is known for its focus on Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, varietals that thrive in the region’s distinct climatic conditions. The Elgin Valley is characterized by its elevation and proximity to the ocean, yielding grapes that develop vibrant acidity, intense fruit flavors, and complexity. Saurwein’s winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and the environment to shine through in their wines.

Saurwein employs organic farming practices to promote biodiversity and sustainability within their vineyards. This commitment ensures that the grapes are grown in harmony with nature, leading to healthier vines and more expressive wines. The team at Saurwein meticulously manages the terroir, with careful attention given to vine health and yield to ensure the highest quality fruit is harvested.

The wines produced at Saurwein are celebrated for their freshness, elegance, and balance. Each release reflects the unique identity of the Elgin Valley, showcasing the beauty of the region’s cool-climate viticulture. The winery is dedicated to producing wines that pair beautifully with food, making them versatile choices for any occasion.

In addition to their focus on quality winemaking, Saurwein is committed to sharing their passion with visitors. The winery often welcomes guests for tastings and tours, providing an opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of Elgin and learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle.

With a strong dedication to craftsmanship and a deep connection to the land, Saurwein continues to establish itself as a notable producer in South Africa's burgeoning wine scene. Each bottle offers an invitation to experience the distinctive flavors and charm of the Elgin Valley, making Saurwein wines a delightful addition to any wine lover’s collection.