Sadie Family Wines Signature Series new releases

The 2024 vintage was the first to be made in the much-talked-about new Sadie Family cellar and, while this producer remains resolutely vineyard-focused, the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities seem to have contributed to particularly compelling renditions of the two pinnacle wines.

Columella 2024
Price: R1,360

Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsaut, Tinta Barocca and Pinotage. Matured for 12 months in oak barrels, of which 10% were new, before a further 12 months in foudre. Red and black berries, rose, fynbos, cured meat and strong spicy notes. The palate has great depth of fruit, well integrated acidity and mouthcoating tannins – prominent but not overwhelming. Beautifully balanced and remarkably persistent on the finish. Paradoxically overtly perfumed yet full and structured. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 97 | Distinctive

Palladius 2024
Price: R1,335

Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Viognier, Verdelho, Roussanne, Marsanne, Semillon Gris, Semillon Blanc, Palomino, Colombard, Grillo, Assyrtiko, Grenache Blanc and Verdelho. Matured for 12 months amphora and concrete eggs, before a further 12 months in old foudre. A restrained yet hauntingly complex nose – some struck-match reduction gives way to lime, lemon, white peach, flowers and herbs. The palate is a study in purity, seemingly weightless yet intensely flavoured, scintillating acidity, the finish long and pithy. Focused with a compelling inner energy. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 97 | Distinctive

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