Sadie Family Palladius Swartland 2021

99 points Anthony Mueller (Wine Advocate): "Toeing the line to triple digits, the 2021 Palladius is a blend of Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Sémillon, Colombard, Verdellho and Palomino. Instantly impressive in the glass, the wine is bold with waxy aromas that sway with seductive notes of lemon pastry cream, dusty melon and citrus blossoms. Medium-bodied and with 13.7% alcohol, the palate is succulent and bright with fantastic acid and displays a kiss of phenolic bitterness that beams with focus and precision. Subtle notes of beeswax and lees drive the finish with immense complexity and considerable weight. The aftertaste summersaults with complexity, offering fresh and bright citrus notes with notions of dusty flowers. It will remain food friendly for decades. It's devastatingly beautiful and cerebral. 12,400 bottles were produced after the grapes were whole-bunch pressed and rested in concrete and amphora. Drink: 2025-2045. (12/29/23)"

96 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2021 Palladius is aged in concrete eggs and amphora for 12 months plus 12 months in old foudre. Sadie said he is most proud of this vintage over the last decade. It has a well-defined lanolin, yellow fruit, melted candle wax and fern nose. The palate is supremely well-balanced, with a killer line of acidity counterbalancing the concentration. An underlying touch of bitter lemon and ginger surfaces towards the harmonious and persistent finish. Superb energy here. Drink: 2025-2050. (Aug 2023)"

96 points Tim Atkin, MW: "We want Palladius to operate in the same space as Columella", says Eben Sadie of his complex, 17 parcel, multi-varietal white blend, produced as a macedoine of Chenin Blanc with 75% Verdelho, Roussanne, Palomino, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Viognier and Marsanne. Peach, pear, citrus and grapefruit flavours are complemented by subtle lees from ageing in concrete eggs and amphoras, tangy acidity and impressive underlying concentration. 2024-2029. (2023)"