Sadie Family Columella Swartland 2016

97 points and 'South Africa 2018 Wines of the Year,' Tim Atkin, MW: "'I’m not scared of time,' says Eben Sadie, 'because if you are, you’re afraid of structure in your wines.' This Columella bears him out. Blending Syrah with smaller amounts of Mourvèdre, Tinta Barocca, Cinsaut and Grenache, it’s not a particularly powerful wine at 13.5% but has incredible focus and energy, with a backbone of sinewy tannins, plenty of texture and a lot more to give in bottle. 2024-35. (2018)"

94 points Wine Spectator: "[$170 list] A tightly wound but well-crafted example, this needs a little bit of air at the moment, but will be better after a few years of cellaring. Elegant, featuring notes of damson plum, black tea and lavender, with juicy acidity and firm, integrated tannins providing support. Shows balance, intensity and depth. Best from 2021 through 2031. 944 cases made, 140 cases imported. (5/31/19)"

93+ points Anthony Mueller (Wine Advocate): "On the nose, the 2016 Columella reminds me of sitting on the beach eating a bowl of blackberries and dark cherries. The nose has a structural rigidity with a firm mineral presence, which I typically get from the Northern Rhône. Once on the palate, the wine expands in the mouth, unfolding its layers, showing great complexity with a tightly structured grip. Medium-bodied, the complexity continues on to the finish, continually expressing new sensations, ending with fresh cherry skins with a long, taught finish. Very few wines show this elegance and mineral tension, alongside with the dusty freshness and vibrancy. Columella has always had a special place in my heart, and this is a fine example. You'll want to lay this down in your cellar for some time. I have the notion that it is going to age like a king. Impressive! Drink: 2020-2040. (Oct 2019)"

93 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2016 Columella was matured for 12 months in 10% new oak and then 12 months in old foudres. There is something warm and comforting about the nose: blueberry, crushed violet, a touch of burning embers, almost a damp clay scent. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannin, the Syrah not as pronounced as previous vintages (a policy pursued by Eben as he increased Grenache), and delivering gentle grip toward the slightly peppered finish and long, black-pepper-tinged aftertaste. Very impressive. Drink: 2020-2035. (Aug 2018)"