Sadie Family Columella Swartland 2017

98 points and 'South Africa 2019 Wines of the Year,' Tim Atkin, MW: "'Syrah-centred with satellites of 40% Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan and Cinsault, this is an "attempt to represent the whole Swartland", according to Paul Jordaan. All dry farmed, it's the best Columella I've ever tasted, with a lovely interplay between schist and granite soils, performing like two hands on a piano. Violets, fynbos and dry earth aromas segue into a palate that's focused, layered and subtle with bright, textured tannins and amazing minerality. 2022-35. (2019)"

94 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2017 Columella has an outgoing, intense bouquet, a mixture of red and black fruit mixed with sage, tobacco and thyme, that seems a little smudged initially but gains clarity with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, plenty of red berry fruit, a generous sprinkling of white pepper and a hint of fennel. Powerful yet refined, and very focused and harmonious on the finish. Gorgeous. Drink: 2022-2045. (Nov 2019)"

93 points Anthony Mueller (Wine Advocate): "The 2017 Columella begins with a dusty essence and dark-fruited core, that is dusty yet still has a softness to the nose. The palate is expressive with an austere peppery edge that is tightly wound with dusty tannins and a sandy powdering of blackberry, dark cherry and black plum skin. Ethereally structured, the wine has power and precision that is highly complex and will age for decades to come. The finish is shy, yet still having the depth and breadth of a fine wine, that lingers with a firm dusty minerality and tannic grip. Wow! What focus! Drink: 2020-2040. (Oct 2019)"