Sadie Family Old Vine Series Skurfberg White 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Skurfberg vineyard lies within the Citrusdal Mountain area of the Western Cape, north of Swartland. The name "Skurfberg," meaning rugged mountain in Afrikaans, evokes the dramatic terrain of this site. Soils are dominated by decomposed Table Mountain sandstone, sandy and poor in nutrients, which forces the vines to struggle and produce berries of great concentration and character.

The vineyard is planted exclusively with old bush vines of Chenin Blanc (Steen), some over half a century old. Yields are naturally low, averaging around 23 hl/ha, contributing to intensity and depth. Despite the warm and dry climate, the site maintains freshness and minerality, making it uniquely suited to producing exceptional Chenin Blanc with structure, precision, and remarkable age-worthiness.

Winemaking

Harvesting is conducted manually in 20 kg crates, and grapes are cooled before vinification to preserve freshness under Swartland's often extreme harvest conditions. Whole bunch pressing takes about three hours, with gentle juice settling before transfer into large old foudres.

Fermentation occurs spontaneously with ambient yeasts and may last from a few weeks to several months, sometimes finishing the following spring. Malolactic fermentation often occurs naturally during this extended period. The wine ages for 12 months on its fermentation lees in large seasoned oak casks, bottled directly from the lees with minimal sulphur (about 50 ppm). The result is a wine of purity, texture, and terroir-driven identity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale gold with bright reflections.
• Aroma: Layers of green apple, pear skin, and lanolin, supported by mineral and earthy undertones.
• Palate: Concentrated yet finely balanced, showing orchard fruits, waxy depth, and firm tannins. Acidity provides tension and freshness, while a mineral core reflects its rugged origins.

Did you know?

The Skurfberg site is remarkable for producing wines of freshness and precision in a warm, arid climate. Eben Sadie often remarks that this paradox is what makes the vineyard so special: its old vines and decomposed sandstone soils retain enough water to maintain balance, even in extreme vintages.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled lobster with herb butter: The wine's minerality and freshness cut through the richness of the shellfish.
• Roast chicken with lemon and thyme: Echoes the orchard fruit and herbal nuances while enhancing texture.
• Mature Comté cheese: The nutty, creamy notes complement the lanolin and mineral depth of the Chenin.
• Sole meunière: The buttery sauce harmonises with the wine's texture while the citrus notes accentuate its freshness.

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.