Sadie Family Old Vine Series Treinspoor 2023

Region and Vineyards

The Treinspoor vineyard is located in the Malmesbury area of the Swartland, adjacent to the old railway line that lends its name to this wine. The vines grow in a unique mix of alluvial soils, rich in sandstone, granite, and quartz formations, which contribute to the wine’s distinctive minerality and complexity.

The vineyard’s old bush vines, trained over decades, form a natural canopy that protects the fragile, thin-skinned Tinta Barocca grapes from the intense Swartland sun. This balance between protection and exposure is critical for the development of concentrated fruit flavors and well-structured tannins. With a yield of just 30 hl/ha, the vines produce grapes of remarkable character and intensity.

Winemaking

The 2023 vintage was crafted with meticulous attention to detail to preserve the authenticity and expression of the Tinta Barocca grape. Harvested by hand, the grapes were fermented with a mix of 50% whole clusters and 50% destemmed berries, ensuring a balance between structure and finesse. The fermentation process lasted 25 to 30 days, using only gentle bucket overs to avoid over-extraction, as Tinta Barocca naturally contains an abundance of tannins.

Post-fermentation, the wine was gently pressed using an old basket press and aged in 28-year-old conical wooden casks for 11 months. These neutral casks allow a slow interaction with oxygen, preserving the purity of the wine while adding subtle textural depth. After this, the wine was transferred to a concrete tank for one additional month to settle naturally before bottling with minimal sulphur addition (65 mg/L).

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep purple with a vibrant, youthful hue.
• Aroma: Complex aromas of spices, freshly ploughed soil, and dark purple fruits like plum, complemented by herbal undertones.
• Palate: Concentrated and tightly structured, with intense flavors of ripe red fruits, earthy depth, and fine, Nebbiolo-like tannins. The vibrant acidity and layered texture promise great aging potential, while the finish lingers with a refined, spicy persistence.

Did You Know?

Tinta Barocca, often considered one of the Swartland’s most significant red varieties, is celebrated for its ability to communicate terroir. Its origins and thin skin make it particularly suited to reflecting the soil and climate in which it is grown, a trait that has earned Treinspoor its place as a signature wine in the Sadie Family’s Old Vine Series.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised Lamb Shank: The wine’s earthy and tannic profile complements the rich, savory flavors of slow-cooked lamb.
• Duck Confit with Plum Sauce: Enhances the fruit-forward aromas and balances the wine’s structure.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: Highlights the earthy and spicy notes while softening the tannins.
• Aged Gouda: The wine’s robust tannins and acidity pair beautifully with the cheese’s nutty complexity.

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.