Sadie Family Columella 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Columella 2020 is sourced from 10 distinct vineyards across the Swartland, including sites in Paardeberg, Kasteelberg, Malmesbury, and Piquetberg. These sites are characterized by diverse soils, including granite, slate, gravel, and sandstone formations, which impart layers of minerality and complexity to the wine.

The vines are cultivated on slopes and hillsides, benefiting from the region’s Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry days and cooling breezes. Low-yielding vines, at an average of 28 hl/ha, produce fruit of exceptional intensity, ensuring a wine that is both concentrated and expressive.

Winemaking

The 2020 vintage underwent meticulous hand-sorting of individual berries to ensure only the best fruit was used. Fermentation was carried out spontaneously in 3,300-liter open concrete fermenters, lasting approximately three weeks at 24 °C. This was followed by a three-week post-fermentation maceration, enhancing the wine’s structure and depth. No additives were used during fermentation, preserving the natural integrity of the grapes.

After fermentation, the wine was gently pressed in a traditional basket press and transferred to French oak barrels (only 5% new) for malolactic fermentation and aging on lees for 12 months. Subsequently, it was racked into large oval casks (foudres) for an additional 12 months of maturation. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered, completing a 24-month aging process that emphasizes purity and refinement.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with youthful vibrancy.
• Aroma: Intense and lifted aromas of bright red fruits like raspberry and cherry, evolving into darker notes of blueberry and subtle spice.
• Palate: The wine offers a seamless integration of fine tannins and bright acidity, with flavors of crushed red fruit, mineral undertones, and a long, powder-dry finish. The acidity, driven by the Carignan and Mourvèdre, weaves through the wine like a tightrope, ensuring precision and balance.

Did You Know?

Columella is named after Lucius Junius Moderatus Columella, a Roman agriculturalist whose work emphasized harmony with the land, reflecting the Sadie Family’s dedication to terroir-driven winemaking. Each vintage of Columella is a testament to the Swartland’s evolving viticultural landscape, with the blend adapting annually to reflect the unique expression of the vineyards.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised Short Ribs with Rosemary and Garlic: Matches the wine’s depth and tannic structure.
• Duck Breast with Plum Sauce: Enhances the vibrant red and dark fruit flavors.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: Highlights the wine’s earthy undertones and seamless texture.
• Aged Manchego Cheese: Complements the wine’s minerality and refined tannins.

History of The Sadie Family Wines

Established in 1999, The Sadie Family Wines emerged as a trailblazer in South African winemaking under the guidance of Eben Sadie, a winemaker whose passion for expressing the unique terroirs of the Swartland has reshaped the industry. After gaining experience in prestigious wineries in South Africa and Europe, Eben returned to his homeland with a vision to produce wines that authentically reflect the land. His inaugural vintage of Columella, a refined red blend, debuted in 2000 and quickly established a new standard for South African wine.

In 2002, Eben introduced Palladius, a white blend that showcased his skill in crafting complex, textured wines. His commitment to showcasing the potential of South Africa’s old vines has been a defining element of his philosophy. Over the years, the winery has expanded its focus to include the Old Vine Series, a collection of single-vineyard wines made from vines aged 40 to over 100 years, preserving the viticultural heritage of the region. Eben’s pioneering spirit and dedication to quality have earned him numerous awards, including recognition as one of the world’s most influential winemakers.

In addition to producing world-class wines, Eben Sadie has been instrumental in redefining South Africa’s identity as a wine-producing nation. His commitment to showcasing the potential of old vines and unique vineyard sites has not only preserved historic vineyards but also inspired a resurgence of interest in the Swartland region. Eben’s work has had a ripple effect, influencing other winemakers to prioritize sustainability, terroir expression, and low-intervention techniques.

A major turning point in the estate’s history came with the development of the Old Vine Series, launched in the mid-2000s. These wines were crafted from ancient vineyards that had been overlooked or abandoned, featuring grapes such as Chenin Blanc, Grenache, and Semillon Gris. Each wine in the series tells a story of a specific site and its unique terroir, reinforcing Eben’s dedication to protecting South Africa’s viticultural heritage. This collection has been widely praised for its depth, authenticity, and ability to express the characteristics of the Swartland.

Eben Sadie’s international experience, including work in Spain’s Priorat region, significantly shaped his winemaking philosophy. His time abroad reinforced his belief in the importance of respecting nature and nurturing a sense of place in every bottle. Today, Sadie Family remains a global ambassador for the quality and complexity of South African wines, with its releases highly sought after by collectors and wine lovers alike.

Region and Vineyards

The Sadie Family’s vineyards are located in the Swartland, a dynamic and diverse region in South Africa known for its Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The terroir is defined by a mix of shale, granite, and sandy soils, offering a variety of conditions that allow for the cultivation of both red and white grape varieties. These natural attributes provide the foundation for wines with richness, depth, and vibrant acidity.

A significant focus of the estate is on old bush vines, some exceeding a century in age. These vines, deeply rooted and naturally low-yielding, produce grapes of remarkable intensity and complexity. By employing organic and biodynamic farming practices, The Sadie Family Wines ensures that the vineyards are farmed sustainably, enhancing the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem. The Swartland's natural beauty and Eben’s stewardship have transformed the region into a haven for artisanal winemaking.

Wine Range of Sadie Family

Sadie Family offers a portfolio that reflects the diversity and potential of the Swartland region:

• Columella: The estate’s flagship red blend, primarily Syrah and Mourvèdre, renowned for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential.
• Palladius: A sophisticated white blend incorporating varieties like Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, and Viognier, celebrated for its richness and balance.
• Old Vine Series: A tribute to South Africa’s viticultural history, featuring single-vineyard wines from historic plots, including Skurfberg, Kokerboom, and Mev. Kirsten, each expressing its unique terroir.

Each wine is crafted with minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and vineyards to shine.

Did You Know?

Eben Sadie is a founding member of the Swartland Independent Producers, an association dedicated to promoting the Swartland’s terroir and championing sustainable farming practices. The collective has been instrumental in positioning the Swartland as one of South Africa’s most exciting wine regions.