Palladius, The Sadie Family Wines 2018

Multi-grape blend, including chenin, reflecting its Swartland origin rather than any variety. 2018 opens with great aromatic vigour & energy; acidity also drives intense, textured layers to lengthy conclusion. Flavoursome rather than fruity, glimpses of honey, tropical tones to firmly dry finish. Will age well, like 2017 (5 stars, 98 pts).

The 2018 Palladius is pale gold in color with an impressive meniscus that clings to the glass. The nose is youthful with a significant underlying mineral essence beneath aromas of waxy citrus blossom, Meyer lemon pith, raw honeycomb, wax melon and yellow apple skin. Medium-bodied, the 13.5% alcohol wine is majestic on the palate, displaying a tightly wound mineral tension, a waxy and textural mouthfeel and a kiss of phenolic bitterness to make this absolutely food-friendly and age-worthy. The wine continues to unfold and evolve on the palate, offering complex terroir expressions. Concluding with a long, drawn-out and persistent finish, flavors of dusty citrus linger for more than a minute. There’s no wonder why these wines are so highly allocated and sought after. I just had a daydream about how tertiary and nutty this bottle will be in 15 years. Simply stunning! Wow.