Tim Atkin (99/100)
Sadie Family Skerpioen 2024 Swartland (13%) Skerpioen comes from one of the Swartland's most unusual and beautiful sites, a 90-year-old vineyard on a combination of beach sand and bright-white limestone. Marrying equal parts Palomino and Chenin Blanc, the 2024 is slightly broader than usual, but retains its defining sea breeze freshness. Jasmine and wet stone lead you into a sappy, pure, very lightly wooded palate of saffron, waxed lemons and salted almonds. A stunning white that ages majestically too.
James Suckling (96/100)
Fresh apricots, salted olives, sea shells, lemon curd and sage on the nose, as well as salted almonds. It’s creamy, textured and medium- to full-bodied, with a saline freshness. Long and delicious. Field blend of chenin blanc and palomino.
R. Parker (95/100)
From a vineyard co-planted to Chenin Blanc and Palomino, The Sadie Family 2024 Swartland Die Distriksreeks Skerpioen is briny and mineral-driven, with crushed oystershell, honey blossom and pronounced maritime salinity wrapped around a fleshed-out yet vibrant palate. Despite its concentration, the wine carries some of the highest natural acidity in the range. It ages in old acacia wood and oak foudre for 12 months. From 90-year-old vines rooted in limestone-based soils near St. Helena Bay, the site’s coastal influence defines its unmistakable character.
Eben Sadie has repositioned The Sadie Family’s former “Old Vine Series” under the new "Die Distriksreeks" (The District Series), shifting the focus from vine age to a clearer expression of place and viticulture. While the historic old vineyards remain central, Eben Sadie has increasingly emphasized farming precision and site identity over cellar technique. The evolving range—now including two new bottlings, the Twiswind white and Sonvang red—reflects his long-term ambition to formulate an "African" wine aesthetic.