The Sadie Family Wines Columella 2021

Rhône varieties from Swartland, 30% Syrah (the lowest in Columella's history), with elevated Mourvèdre and Tinta Barocca, 50% whole clusters, aged 12 months in cask then 12 in old foudres, bottled with a touch more CO2 from minimal racking. Red and blue fruits open the nose, with aniseed and black pepper emerging as the wine breathes. On the palate, blood orange and ginger give it a vivid, lifted quality, sleeker and more fine-boned than previous vintages, trading raw power for real precision. The tannins are finely drawn, the line taut. Less imposing than older Columellas, but more composed. Give it time. Drink 2028–2045.