2023 Sadie Family Swartland Skerpioen, South Africa

A cool white blend that has lime peel, sliced apples, nectarines and fennel on the nose, followed by wet-stone minerality on the palate that only adds to the purity of fruit. It’s medium-bodied, with a salty freshness that pulls you back for more. Equal parts chenin blanc and palomino, from a cool, dry area of west Swartland, two kilometers from the Atlantic. Drink or hold.

95 points jamessuckling.com

Old Vine Series. 12.5% alc. Named after the abundant native Scorpions that make their home here, Skerpioen is an unirrigated, 2.4-hectare, 80-plus-year-old vineyard of half Palomino and half Chenin Blanc just two kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean. The soils here are very chalky, a type of soil that Sadie likens to the white albarizas of Andalucía. Fitting then that the vines here are 50% Palomino. This is also one of the coolest parts of the Swartland, yet also a very dry location (average rainfall of around 300mm per year), which naturally restricts the yields and concentrates the fruit, magnifying the vineyards’ characteristic saline intensity. This parcel produces an average, tiny yield of 24 hl/ha. The grapes are picked and pressed together and naturally co-ferment in old wooden casks. The result is a stunning and complex white that is completely unique.

Sadie Family Wines is one of South Africa's most acclaimed wineries, known for producing world-class wines that showcase the country's ancient vineyard sites and unique terroir. Founded by visionary winemaker Eben Sadie, the winery has gained international recognition for its meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking, focusing on expressing the purity and character of South Africa’s old vines. With a strong commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention, Sadie Family Wines has set the benchmark for fine wines from the Swartland and beyond.

The winery's portfolio includes sought-after wines such as Columella, a refined and age-worthy red blend, and Palladius, an intricate white blend that brings together various Mediterranean varietals. Other celebrated single-vineyard wines from Sadie Family include Skurfberg, Kokerboom, and Mev. Kirsten, each reflecting the exceptional qualities of their specific sites.

Sadie Family Wines has received numerous prestigious awards and accolades, consistently earning high scores from top wine critics and publications such as Wine Spectator, Decanter, and The Wine Advocate. Eben Sadie has been recognized for his contributions to South African winemaking, including being named Winemaker of the Year and receiving multiple five-star ratings in the Platter's South African Wine Guide. The winery's commitment to excellence has positioned it as a leader in the global fine wine community, with its wines frequently appearing on lists of the world’s best.

These award-winning wines pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. The bold and structured Columella pairs well with grilled red meats and rich stews, while the textural and complex Palladius is a perfect match for roasted poultry, creamy seafood dishes, and Mediterranean cuisine. Each wine offers remarkable aging potential, evolving beautifully over time to reveal even greater complexity and depth.