At a glance

Producer

Sadie Family Wines

Region

Swartland, South Africa

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$90

Tasting profile

Aromas of black pepper, dark berries, smoked meat, and a hint of floral violet. Palate is dense with layered dark fruit and balanced oak.

Evolution: With age, will show more tertiary notes like leather, earth, underbrush, and refined spice complexity.

At peak: At peak will be silky, complex, and harmoniously balanced with seamless tannins and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing freshness and aging balance

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated, characteristic of Syrah with chewy texture

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

20-25+ years from vintage given producer quality and vintage characteristics

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2049

Optimal window

2023 to 2052

Current status

Coming into early maturity

Current condition

The 2017 vintage is showing robust structure with maturing tannins and fresh acidity indicating good longevity.

The combination of vintage 2017's favorable weather in Swartland and Sadie Family's low-intervention, meticulous winemaking style produces a wine that benefits from extended aging to reveal full complexity and elegance.

Food pairing

Ideal with grilled lamb, game meats, robust stews, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and release aromatic layers

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Sadie Family employs dry farming, minimal intervention, use of natural yeasts, energy-efficient winery design, and recyclable packaging.

The producer emphasizes ecological balance through biodynamic farming, water conservation by dry farming techniques in a dry climate, and a small carbon footprint via local sales focus and sustainable packaging. This high level of integrative sustainability practices results in a top-tier environmental score.