A new vintage of Jessica’s much-loved dry Riesling, and one that came from a particularly challenging growing season.
February brought unusually wet conditions and significant disease pressure, with some vineyards losing fruit before it could make it to harvest. Jessica had to adapt, working with different parcels to find the freshness and fruit she wanted for Chi.
The 2026 brings together fruit from Dal Farm in Elgin and De Bos Farm in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Jessica loves the contrast between the two areas: Elgin brings a taut, racy freshness, while the Hemel-en-Aarde fruit gives the wine a little more generosity and aromatic lift.
The result is a particularly bright and energetic Chi, with yellow stone fruit, winter melon, elderflower and jasmine tea. Fresh, floral and beautifully textured.
“Grapes sourced more or less equally from Elgin and Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, with a 10% portion of Crouchen Blanc from Paarl. Saurwein, usually the purist, relates that she was offered “Riesling” only to discover it was what used to be called Cape Riesling, but decided to use it anyway. Spontaneously fermented in stainless-steel tank. Overtly floral and spicy, with lime, green apple and litchi on the nose. Great fruit concentration, punchy acidity and residual sugar adding weight and texture. The finish is dry but not unduly so. 93/100 | Distinctive” – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za
