Sadie Family Columella 2022

Region and Vineyards

Swartland, north of Cape Town, has emerged as a cradle of South African fine wine, its dryland bush vines rooted in ancient granite and slate with outcrops of gravel and sandstone. Maritime breezes temper heat, preserving acidity and aromatic precision. Columella 2022 assembles 12 vineyards: seven in Paardeberg, three in Kasteelberg, plus single parcels near Malmesbury and Piquetberg. This geographic spread supplies natural blending components—lift and line from granite, darker mineral depth from slate, and spice from sandstone textures.

Yields average 32 hL/ha, focusing intensity without excess weight. The Western Cape's premium red-blend movement favors old vines, ambient ferments and gentle élevage—choices mirrored here to privilege transparency of site. Columella is explicitly a blend of vineyards, not a fixed recipe: varietal proportions flex with the season to honor the most articulate expression of place while maintaining the cuvée's signature poise and longevity.

Winemaking

Berries are hand-sorted into small cases, then fermented spontaneously in 3,300-L open concrete tanks for about three weeks at 24 °C, followed by roughly three weeks' post-fermentation maceration. No additions are made. A traditional basket press is used before transfer to barrel for malolactic, a regime aimed at purity of fruit and fine, powdery tannins rather than extraction.

Élevage spans 24 months: 12 months on lees in tight-grain French oak (about 5% new), then 12 months in large foudres on fine lees. Bottling is unfined and unfiltered. Key analytics for 2022: alcohol 13.2%, residual sugar 1.8 g/L, pH 3.5, total acidity 5.7 g/L, total SO₂ 85 mg/L. The blend includes Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsaut and Tinta Barocca; proportions vary by vintage to capture terroir fidelity and textural harmony.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep, luminous ruby with a youthful purple rim.
• Aroma: Lifted violets and fresh red/blue fruits segue to subtle "oriental" spice and a discreet earthy undertone; compact and pure, promising greater perfume with age.
• Palate: Medium-bodied and taut; pristine berry fruit framed by fine, powdery tannins and a thread of bright acidity. Mineral length, spice detail and a dry, classical finish; cellar for best complexity.

Did you know?

Columella 2022 is the lowest-alcohol Columella to date at 13.2%, reflecting ever-finer picking windows and the growing influence of Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsaut and Tinta Barocca in shaping compact structure and freshness.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Herb-crusted lamb loin: Savory herbs and sweet lamb echo the wine's spice and red-fruit profile; fine tannins complement lean protein and roasted edges.
• Porcini and thyme roast chicken: Earthy depth resonates with the wine's subtle soil tones; fresh acidity cuts through the roast juices.
• Charred aubergine with tahini & za'atar: Smoky, sesame richness is refreshed by the wine's brightness; spice synergy lifts the finish.
• Pork chops with fennel and orange: Anise and citrus mirror spice and florals; supple texture matches the wine's sleek frame.

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.