Sadie Family Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2022

Sadie Family Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2022

 

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Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2022
  • Vintage : 2022
  • Country : South Africa
  • Region : Swartland
  • Subregion :
  • Type : White
  • Style : Medium Bodied Aromatic Dry
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 12,8°
  • Grappes : 100% Sémillon

Sadie Family Kokerboom is a remarkable Semillon blend, offering extraordinary texture and richness, crafted from ancient vines in the rugged Citrusdal Mountains.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 95 2022
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

Kokerboom is sourced from the Citrusdal Mountain region, a dramatic landscape with decomposed Table Mountain sandstone soils rich in iron content. The vineyard consists of approximately 80% white Groendruif (Semillon Blanc) and 20% red Groendruif (Semillon Gris), with the grapes picked and pressed together.

This vineyard is extremely dry-farmed, receiving only 180 mm of rainfall in 2022, which imposed significant hydric stress. Despite these conditions, the vines produced grapes of exceptional concentration, with a low yield of 16 hectoliters per hectare, emphasizing the depth and intensity of the wine.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-picked and undergo an arduous 4.5-hour journey from the vineyard to the winery. After being cooled overnight to 4°C, the grapes are sorted and gently pressed as whole bunches over a 3-hour process, allowing natural settling of the juice.

The turbid juice is then fermented in old foudres, a process that takes 6 to 8 months due to the low nitrogen and yeast nutrient content of the grapes. By the following spring, malolactic fermentation is typically completed. The wine is aged on its fermentation lees for 12 months before bottling, with no racking or filtration, preserving its full natural character.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Light gold with a luminous sheen.
  • Aroma: Waxy lanolin, wet wool, and subtle citrus zest, intertwined with granadilla (passionfruit) and delicate mineral undertones.
  • Palate: Rich and voluminous, with compact tannins and a vibrant acidity that balance the wine’s creamy texture. The finish is long, layered, and reveals a profound sense of place.

Did you know?

The name Kokerboom, Afrikaans for “Quiver Tree,” is inspired by the rugged resilience of the Citrusdal Mountain terrain. This Semillon vineyard is a living testament to the power of old vines, thriving in one of South Africa’s most challenging and arid climates.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Grilled sea bass with citrus beurre blanc: The wine’s acidity and waxy texture complement the buttery sauce and delicate fish.
  • Roast chicken with thyme and garlic: Its richness and vibrant freshness elevate the savory and herbal flavors.
  • Vegetable gratin with cream and nutmeg: The wine’s depth and nuanced profile match the creamy and earthy dish.
  • Aged Gouda: The nutty, savory character of the cheese pairs beautifully with the wine’s lanolin and citrus notes.

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.

Robert Parker (RP) : 95 Points (2022)
Starting with a delightful mineral-laced nose, the 2022 Old Vine Series Kokerboom offers complex aromas of roasted almonds, underripe peach and wax melon with delightful citrus blossom. Light to medium-bodied and with 12.8% alcohol, the palate is complex, offering a beautiful weight with a waxy and phenolic mouthfeel before showcasing incredible mineral tension with energetic acidity. This beauty will remain food friendly for years and will benefit from another year in the bottle. Only 2,300 bottles were produced of this devastatingly gorgeous wine.

Sadie Family Palladius 2020
Sadie Family Palladius 2020
Sadie Family
Palladius 2020
WS
93
RP
95
Sadie Family Palladius 2020 is a compelling white blend from 17 Swartland vineyards, crafted from an intricate combination of Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, and other Mediterranean varieties. It offers a dynamic balance of citrus brightness, mineral depth, and a richly textured structure.
115,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Columella 2020
Sadie Family Columella 2020
Sadie Family
Columella 2020
WS
94
RP
98
WE
94
Sadie Family Columella 2020 is the 21st bottling of this iconic wine, blending Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsaut, and Tinta Barocca from South Africa’s Swartland region. A pinnacle of Sadie Family’s craftsmanship, it delivers profound complexity, elegance, and remarkable aging potential.
129,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Mev. Kirsten Chenin Blanc 2023
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Mev. Kirsten Chenin Blanc 2023
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Mev. Kirsten Chenin Blanc 2023
RP
97
Sadie Family Mev. Kirsten 2023 is a monumental expression of Chenin Blanc, crafted from one of South Africa’s oldest vineyards, delivering extraordinary depth and balance.
155,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Treinspoor 2023
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Treinspoor 2023
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Treinspoor 2023
RP
96
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Treinspoor 2023 is an expressive single-varietal Tinta Barocca, grown in the Swartland and revered for its profound ability to transport terroir into the bottle. With its spicy aromas, earthy depth, and substantial structure, this wine is built for the long haul.
75,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skurfberg White 2023
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skurfberg White 2023
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Skurfberg White 2023
RP
95
VN
94
Sadie Family Skurfberg is a powerful and textured Chenin Blanc, born from ancient bush vines in the rugged Citrusdal Mountain region, embodying both precision and longevity.
78,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Pofadder Red 2022
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Pofadder Red 2022
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Pofadder Red 2022
RP
95
VN
96
WS
93
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Pofadder Red 2022 is a pure expression of Cinsaut, a historically significant grape in South African winemaking, grown in the Riebeeksrivier region of the Swartland. This wine reflects both the finesse and the textural complexity that define the Old Vine Series.
75,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Soldaat Red 2022
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Soldaat Red 2022
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Soldaat Red 2022
RP
95
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Soldaat Red 2022 is a pure Grenache crafted from the high-altitude slopes of the Citrusdal Mountain in the Piekenierskloof, showcasing the grape’s ability to translate terroir into liquid elegance.
75,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skerpioen White 2022
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skerpioen White 2022
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Skerpioen White 2022
RP
96
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skerpioen White 2022 is a rare and exceptional blend of Chenin Blanc and Palomino, grown in one of South Africa’s most unique coastal terroirs, combining salinity, vibrant acidity, and profound minerality.
75,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Columella 2021
Sadie Family Columella 2021
Sadie Family
Columella 2021
RP
98
VN
96
JS
97
Sadie Family Columella 2021 represents the pinnacle of Swartland winemaking, blending Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsaut, and Tinta Barocca. It showcases remarkable freshness, elegance, and aging potential, making it an icon in South African wine.
140,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Palladius 2021
Sadie Family Palladius 2021
Sadie Family
Palladius 2021
RP
99
VN
96
JS
96
Sadie Family Palladius 2021 is an intricate white blend from 17 unique Swartland vineyards, showcasing the harmony of Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, and other Mediterranean varieties. This wine epitomizes the Swartland’s terroir with its stone fruit aromas, profound minerality, and rich texture.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2023
Sadie Family Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2023
Sadie Family
Old Vine Series Kokerboom 2023
Sadie Family Kokerboom is a powerful and textured Semillon, showcasing the unique characteristics of old bush vines and the rugged Citrusdal Mountain terroir.
78,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
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