2023 Eben Sadie Palladius (Swartland)

For the first time, the Palladius includes 20% of fruit from limestone soils on the west coast, which Sadie feels made the wine leaner and more minerally. ‘It was the thing that was missing,’ he remarked. There are now 14 varieties in this blend. The 2023 offers pressed yellow flowers and light walnut and hazelnut scents in the background. The palate is well balanced with a slightly honeyed texture on the entry. Wonderful depth, edgy, a little more acidity than the `22, with a long, quite saline finish. Give this three or four years in bottle if you can. 95 points

Palladius now includes 14 different varieties, with the addition of 6% Assyrtiko to the blend in 2023. Fresher and more focused than it used to be, with less stone fruit sweetness, this is one of the best young releases I`ve tasted, but will age very well too. Pear, citrus and apricot flavours are underpinned by pithy acidity, with a salty undertone, subtle wood and a tapering finish. 98 points