2016 Palladius
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Tasting notes
Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche , Viognier, Verdelho, Roussanne, Marsanne, Sémillon Gris, Sémillon Blanc and Palomino mix and Colombard from Paardeberg granite (13 vineyards) and sandstone (4 vineyards). First year of ageing in clay amphorae and in concrete eggs and then an additional year of ageing of the final blend in big oak casks. Eben Sadie: 'The most exciting aspect of this 2016 vintage is simply the length and the persistence of the tannin on the palate'. Still quite introvert and youthful but clearly unlike any single-varietal wine. Firm, deep-flavoured with the structure to last. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Palladius comes from 17 different vineyards and was fermented in clay amphora and concrete egg and aged for first year, then racked and aged for additional year in old foudres prior to bottling. It has a well defined bouquet, quite neutral in style but blossoming with aeration to reveal hints of lanolin and melted candle wax. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity, touches of curry leaf and spice and orange peel. A long tail on the finish of white pepper and sage completes this wonderful Palladius.
About the producer
Since he started making wine under his own name in 2000, Eben Sadie became a cult name in South Africa. The Swartland producer is best known for his flagship Columella and Palladius, but he also makes a range of whites and reds under the Old Vine Series, which became the District Series in 2025.
Product details
Chenin Blanc/Steen, Garnacha Blanca/Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Semillon, Palomino, Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne, Verdelho/Gouveio/Verdello, Colombard
White
Dry