Sadie Family Swartland Rotsbank 2023

Sadie Family Swartland Rotsbank is a Chenin Blanc from a shallow rock shelf in the Paardeberg.

Eben Sadie chased this vineyard for fourteen years before he finally got it in 2021, having long said it was the only Swartland site that would justify a Chenin under his own label. The name describes the ground: a rock shelf with almost no topsoil, which keeps shoots short, bunches small and vine growth minimal compared with neighbouring Chenin blocks. The forty-year-old vines cropped at 32 hectolitres per hectare, and the wine came in a shade over 13 per cent. Three seasons of work have gone into lifting the site, and Sadie expects more from it again.

Taut is the word: lemon, green apple, crushed rock and a dry, mouth-coating finish driven by serious acidity. It will reward a few years. Serve at 12 degrees with oysters, grilled whiting, or a goat's cheese salad.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.