Swartland, Rotsbank, Sadie Family - 2024

Viticulture

Sadie Family has established itself as a leading name in the Swartland region and a driving force behind the revival of South African wine. Eben Sadie champions a terroir-focused approach, crafting precise and elegant wines from old vines and Mediterranean grape varieties well-suited to the Cape climate. The Rotsbank vineyard is located in the Paardeberg in the Aprilskloof on a rock shelf that barely has 30 – 50 cm of soil in most parts. It is incredible to think that this vineyard survives year after year. Many of the roots in the soil have found cracks in this rock shelf, and the limited natural growth of this vineyard makes for incredibly concentrated fruit.

Oenology

After harvesting, the grapes are cooled and then whole bunch pressed for about 3 hours. Fermentation then takes place in used foudres. Once fermentation is completed, the wine is left on lees for the first 12 months before bottling.

Suggestions for accompaniment

Fine de claire oysters with shallot vinegar • Sea bream tartare with lime and ginger • Grilled turbot fillet.