Sadie Family Columella 2021

Region and Vineyards

Columella 2021 is sourced from 10 vineyards across the Swartland, including sites in Paardeberg, Kasteelberg, Malmesbury, and Piquetberg. These vineyards sit on diverse soils such as granite, slate, gravel, and sandstone, each contributing unique layers of minerality and complexity to the wine.

The region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm days and cooling breezes, creates optimal ripening conditions. The low-yielding vines, producing just 32 hl/ha, deliver concentrated and expressive fruit, ensuring a wine that captures the essence of the Swartland’s varied terroir.

Winemaking

The 2021 vintage of Columella was crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The grapes were harvested and hand-sorted into small cases to ensure only the best berries were used. Fermentation occurred naturally in 3,300-liter open concrete fermenters over three weeks at a steady temperature of 24 °C. A further three weeks of post-fermentation maceration allowed the tannins to integrate seamlessly.

Following fermentation, the wine was pressed in a traditional basket press and transferred to French oak barrels (5% new) for 12 months of aging on lees, enhancing texture and depth. It was then racked into large oval casks (foudres) for an additional 12 months of maturation, ensuring purity and finesse. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered, preserving its natural integrity and complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with vivid brightness.
• Aroma: Bright red fruit aromas of raspberry and cherry, with hints of violets, herbal bush notes, and darker elements of graphite, black olive, and cedarwood.
• Palate: Fresh and vibrant, with layers of delicate red fruits, finely integrated tannins, and a seamless acidity. Earthy undertones and a mineral finish highlight the Swartland terroir, while the wine’s structure promises excellent aging potential.

Did You Know?

The name Columella pays homage to Lucius Junius Moderatus Columella, a Roman agriculturalist who emphasized harmony with nature. This philosophy aligns with Sadie Family’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and expressing the unique character of Swartland’s vineyards.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised Lamb Shoulder with Thyme: Complements the wine’s depth and herbal complexity.
• Duck Confit with Blackberry Reduction: Enhances the vibrant red fruit and earthy undertones.
• Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Pairs beautifully with the wine’s freshness and acidity.
• Hard Aged Cheddar: The wine’s tannins and minerality balance the richness of the cheese.

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.