Sadie Family Old Vine Series Pofadder Red 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Pofadder vineyard, located in the Riebeeksrivier area of the Swartland, is planted on iron-rich slate soils that contribute to the wine’s distinct mineral character and vibrant structure. These decomposed slate formations provide excellent drainage and force the vines to dig deep, resulting in concentrated and expressive fruit.

The Swartland region, known for its dry, warm climate and unique terroirs, provides the perfect setting for Cinsaut, a grape variety well-adapted to these conditions. The old bush vines, cultivated with care, produce low yields of just 28 hl/ha, ensuring high-quality fruit with a remarkable balance of ripeness and acidity.

Winemaking

The winemaking process for Pofadder 2022 reflects a respect for tradition and precision. The grapes were harvested by hand and vinified with 50% whole clusters to preserve structure and aromatics, while the remaining 50% were destemmed to encourage the release of juice for fermentation initiation. The fermentation process lasted approximately 30 days, with gentle extraction methods used to maintain the finesse and elegance of the wine.

After fermentation, the wine was gently pressed using an old basket press and transferred to 28-year-old conical wooden casks for 11 months of aging. These neutral vessels ensure minimal influence of wood on the wine, allowing its natural fruit and earthy characteristics to shine. The wine was then racked into concrete tanks for an additional month of settling before bottling, with a minimal addition of 60 mg/L of sulfur to preserve purity and freshness.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Vibrant ruby red with a clear brilliance.
• Aroma: Pure and delicate red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, interwoven with soft oriental spices and hints of earthy complexity.
• Palate: A linear and elegant profile with vibrant red fruit flavors, a subtle earthy backbone, and smooth, fine-grained tannins. The finish is long, structured, and suggests great aging potential.

Did You Know?

Cinsaut, also known as Hermityk in South Africa, was once the backbone of many classic Cape blends in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its large berries and surprising tannic depth make it an enigma among red varieties, producing wines with both finesse and structure.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Coq au Vin: Complements the earthy and spicy elements of the wine while softening its tannins.
• Grilled Duck Breast with Cherry Reduction: Enhances the wine’s delicate red fruit profile and balances its structure.
• Beef Carpaccio with Truffle Oil: Highlights the wine’s finesse and earthy complexity.
• Mature Brie: The creamy texture of the cheese pairs well with the wine’s acidity and tannic grip.

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.