Sadie Family Palladius 2020

Region and Vineyards

The grapes for Palladius 2020 are sourced from 17 meticulously cultivated vineyards across the Swartland, with key sites in Paardeberg, Piketberg, and St Helena Bay. These vineyards span a diversity of terroirs, including decomposed granite, sandstone, and chalk soils, which lend the wine its signature complexity and minerality.

The Paardeberg vineyards, home to 14 of the 17 sites, benefit from granite-rich soils that enhance freshness and aromatic precision. Meanwhile, the chalky soils of St Helena Bay contribute salinity and texture. The vineyards’ coastal proximity ensures cooling breezes that preserve the grapes’ natural acidity, while low yields of 28 hl/ha result in concentrated, expressive fruit.

Winemaking

Palladius 2020 underwent a meticulous winemaking process to highlight the purity and complexity of its diverse varietals. Upon arrival at the cellar, the grapes were sorted and pressed as whole bunches over 2–3 hours, allowing the juice to settle naturally in the tank. Fermentation took place in a combination of 725-liter concrete eggs and clay amphorae (400–1200 liters), where the steady temperatures (ambient at 18°C) allowed natural fermentation to unfold at its own pace—lasting up to 18 months for some parcels.

The wine was aged for 12 months in these vessels before being transferred to large old foudres for an additional 12 months, totaling 24 months of maturation. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, the result is a wine that captures the essence of its terroir with striking clarity and refinement.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright, vibrant gold with crystalline clarity.
• Aroma: Initial notes of lime zest, citrus, and a fresh saline quality, transitioning to secondary aromas of white stone fruit, hints of chalk, and subtle floral undertones.
• Palate: Firmly textured with compact tannins, vibrant acidity, and a balanced weightlessness. Flavors of citrus and peach dominate, with a long mineral finish that speaks to the wine’s origins in granite and chalk soils.

Did You Know?

Palladius is named for Rutilius Taurus Palladius, an ancient Roman agriculturist whose works emphasized careful stewardship of the land—aligning with the Sadie Family’s philosophy of viticulture. The 2020 vintage reflects years of fine-tuning and the inclusion of new vineyards, making it one of the most refined iterations of Palladius.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Lobster with Herb Butter: Complements the wine’s saline minerality and vibrant citrus notes.
• Poulet à la Crème: Highlights the wine’s creamy texture and subtle stone fruit aromas.
• Vegetable Paella: Enhances the herbal and earthy qualities of the wine while balancing its freshness.
• Aged Comté Cheese: Matches the wine’s complexity and saline minerality.

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.