| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | South Africa |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Eben Sadie's Columella was the inspiration for this Rhône-style Swartland blend, made with Syrah, 9% Grenache and 3% Cinsault. Spicy, refreshing and zippy, it's a restrained, medium bodied style with very little oak influence, red berry, bramble and pomegranate flavours and savoury tannins. A stylish second release. 2024-29.
88% Syrah, 9% Grenache and 3% Cinsaut from Swartland vineyards, the former undergoing 30% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting 11 months in 500-litre barrels, the latter two in barrique. Predominantly red berries plus traces of floral perfume, fynbos, pepper and spice. The palate is light-bodied with fruit to the fore, lemon-like acidity and powdery tannins. Already wonderfully approachable.
88% Syrah, 9% Grenache Noir, 3% Cinsault. The same vineyard as the 2021 but in 2022, Syrah ripened at 13.7% – alcohol more than a degree higher than 2021.
You can taste the vineyard resemblance between the two wines, but you can definitely feel the greater weight in the 2022, and the fruit is a little darker – elderberries. Lots of earthy, roast-morels undertow. May need a bit more time than the 2021. Drink 2025-2032.
