The Sadie Family Pofadder 2024

The Sadie Family was founded in 1999 by Eben Sadie in Swartland, a warm, dry region north of Cape Town known for old dry-farmed bush vines. Pofadder is single-variety Cinsault, a grape long planted in the Cape and prized here for its ability to stay light and perfumed even in a hot climate. The vines are unirrigated and low yielding, which concentrates flavour while keeping alcohol in check, and farming follows a minimal-intervention approach that lets site rather than winemaking lead. Fermentation is gentle and the wine spends fourteen months in seasoned oak, chosen so the wood adds structure and slow oxygenation without overt vanilla or toast. The colour is a light translucent ruby, with a nose of red cherry, raspberry, dried herbs and a dusty, almost peppery savouriness. The palate is fresh and fine boned, with low tannin, bright acidity and a chalky, savoury finish. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 15 degrees. It pairs with lighter meats and can even take firmer fish.