Critics Ratings

Mainly shiraz, with mourvédre & grenache, which Eben Sadie believes best match the Swartland. That’s what 09 shows: ripe dark fruit & scrub, savoury spice interwoven through the perfume, flavours, & not least, supple tannins. Nothing showy, just perfect harmony. – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2012, 5* 

Dense and very refined, with mouthwatering cut to the damson plum, red currant, cherry and black currant fruit, underscored by a blaze of iron. Long and taut through the finish, offering flecks of spice, bergamot and rooibos tea before the backdrop of roasted apple wood takes over. This needs a little more time in the cellar to round into form. Best from 2014 through 2020. 830 cases made – Wine Spectator 94/100 (2013)

‘The 2009 Columella is a blend of Syrah and Mourvedre that is basket pressed and matured over twelve months in 225-liter and a 45-hectoliter foudre. Having tasted this last year, I found the nose to be initially reticent, but it unfurls to reveal very fragrant strawberry, rose petal and orange blossom aromas that are very discrete. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and it is certainly a less concentrated, muscular style of Columella than Eben Sadie produced in the past. It is feminine and refined with wonderful focus on the caressing finish. Drink now-2019+’ – Neal Martin 93/100 Wine Advocate (2012)

80% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre. Deep. Very subtle and deep. You really need time to see this potential. Not greedy prices considering the acclaim of the wines. Chew but deep artisanal balance.’– Jancis Robinson 18/20 (2013)

Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client