The Sadie Family 2023 Swartland Columella is fresh yet densely concentrated, offering layered dark fruit, savory spice and impressive volume across a beautifully fleshed-out mid-palate. Drawn from multiple Swartland sites across Paardeberg, Kasteelberg, Malmesbury and Piketberg, the wine blends Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault and Tinta Barroca aged over 24 months into a seamless regional expression. The complex mix of schist, granite, limestone, alluvial clay and sandstone underscores Columella’s identity as a true Swartland benchmark. Despite the challenges of cloudy weather, vintner Eben Sadie says 2023 is one of his most satisfying vintages. Monica Larner, Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2023 Columella is the usual blend of seven varieties. It has quite an intense bouquet, with a mixture of red and black fruit, cigar box, potpourri and a light sea influence. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine-grain tannins, gentle grip, beautifully balanced, with a long and tender finish. Just wonderful transparency to this Columella that will give many years of drinking pleasure. Snapping at the heels of the best Sadie has made. Neal Martin, Vinous

Region: Swartland, South Africa

Grape Varietal: Syrah, Mouvedre, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault, Tinta Barocca

Critic Rating: Robert Parker Wine Advocate 97 Points, Vinous 96 Points

Suggested Drink Window: 2027 - 2048