COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Riesling
PRODUCER
Saurwein
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Off-dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Medium - Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Saurwein Chi Riesling 2023 is a white wine from the Western Cape, South Africa, specifically from the Elgin and Upper Hemel-en-Aarde regions. Produced by Saurwein Wines, the wine's name, 'Chi,' signifies 'life force' and connects to African mythology. Winemaker Jessica Saurwein, drawing on her German heritage, employs a hands-off approach to preserve the wine's inherent character and energy. The grapes are sourced from multiple vineyard sites, each contributing to the wine's complexity.
ALCOHOL
11.5%
AVG. PRICE
STYLE
Natural
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
8-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The name 'Chi' means 'life force' in some African languages.
Fact 02
Jessica Saurwein's family has a winemaking history dating back to the 17th century.
Fact 03
Vineyards are situated on rocky red slate and decomposed shale soils.
Fact 04
The wine is fermented using wild yeasts.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The Saurwein Chi Riesling 2023 is produced from hand-picked grapes sourced from Elgin and Upper Hemel-en-Aarde. Following sorting and pressing, the grapes undergo wild fermentation in stainless steel tanks for 5-6 weeks, with the process halted to achieve a specific residual sugar level. The wine is then aged for 3 months in stainless steel before bottling. This approach emphasizes minimal intervention to preserve the wine's natural character.
