Sadie Family Palladius 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Swartland sits north of Cape Town, a mosaic of dryland bush vines rooted in ancient geology. Palladius draws primarily from the Paardeberg (14 vineyards), supplemented by Piketberg and the coastal slopes of St Helena Bay. These parcels sit on decomposed granite, weathered Table Mountain sandstone and pockets of chalk—soils that yield tension, purity and a saline thread. Maritime influence from the Atlantic tempers summer heat, preserving acidity and aromatic definition.

In 2022, 17 vineyards contribute to a single, articulate blend—an expansive canvas of Swartland terroirs. Elevation, exposition and soil diversity create natural blending components: citrus- and apple-toned lots from granite; floral, stone-fruited components from sandstone; and mineral length from chalk. The result is a wine of breadth and nerve, where fruit succulence is countered by a cool, flinty spine and lingering, savoury texture. Ageing capacity is a hallmark here.

Winemaking

Hand-picked grapes from multiple sites are cooled on arrival, whole-bunch pressed, and allowed a light settling in tank. The turbid juice then ferments naturally in 725-L concrete eggs and 400-1,200-L clay amphorae, with ambient temperature held near 18 °C. Each vineyard ferments in the same vessel every year, and ferments proceed at their own pace—some taking up to 18 months, building texture and nuance without overt oak.

Maturation follows a strict two-year élevage: 12 months in amphorae and concrete eggs, then 12 months in large, seasoned foudres. Bottling is unfined and unfiltered. The 2022 technicals: alcohol 13.5%, residual sugar 2.1 g/L, pH 3.3, total acidity 6.1 g/L; average yield 29 hL/ha. Varieties include Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Viognier, Verdelho, Roussanne, Marsanne, Sémillon (Gris & Blanc), Palomino and Colombard; proportions are site-dependent and not fixed vintage to vintage.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw with green glints; brilliant clarity.
• Aroma: Reserved at first; then lemon, bergamot and mandarin over green apple, flint and beeswax, with emerging white-peach and nectarine tones.
• Palate: Sleek and mineral with a subtle phenolic grip; white peach, lime and orchard apple ride a cool, saline acidity into a long, layered, flinty finish—balanced, textural, ageworthy.

Did you know?

Palladius is often described by the estate as its "biggest canvas" of the Swartland: 17 vineyards feed the blend, and each parcel is vinified in a dedicated vessel year after year—an approach that preserves site identity within the final cuvée.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Line-caught hake, lemon beurre blanc: The wine's citrus drive and saline snap lift delicate white fish while phenolic texture stands up to the sauce.
• Herbed roast chicken with fennel & lemon: Orchard-fruit depth and subtle grip complement roast poultry and aniseed notes, echoing the wine's flinty, savory length.
• Butternut squash & sage risotto: Stone-fruit richness and beeswax nuance mirror the dish's creamy texture; acidity refreshes each bite.
• Cape abalone with garlic and herbs: Maritime freshness and mineral line resonate with briny sweetness, keeping the pairing vibrant.

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.