2017 Eben Sadie Palladius (Swartland)

The 2017 Palladius is matured in a mixture of concrete and clay. It gradually unfurls with brioche, praline and honeysuckle aromas, wonderfully focused and precise. The well-balanced palate delivers orange zest and tangerine on the entry. The acidity is very well judged and there is real brightness and tension toward the finish. Is it the most complex Palladius Sadie has ever made? Maybe not, but it is still a beautiful wine. 93 points

Even Eben Sadie can`t always remember the 11 grapes that make up the blend of this white blend, dominated by Chenin Blanc, with Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Viognier, Verdelho, Roussanne, Marsanne and Semillon Gris among the supporting cast. Amphorae and concrete egg-fermented, it`s a wine that`s less blowsy than in the past, with pear, peach and citrus flavours, subtle oak and aromatic spices. 96 points