Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client

Critics Ratings

‘A tightly wound but well-crafted example, this needs a little bit of air at the moment, but will be better after a few years of cellaring. Elegant, featuring notes of damson plum, black tea and lavender, with juicy acidity and firm, integrated tannins providing support. Shows balance, intensity and depth.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 94/100 (May 2019)

'Aromatically, the 2016 has more base than top notes – dark fruit, black olive, scrub, earth and spice. It makes a massive impression in the mouth – great depth of fruit, driving acidity and firm but fine tannins combine to quite stark effect. It’s, not a weighty wine, however, the alcohol at 13.7% the lowest since the maiden vintage 2000. It’s a pretty hardcore drinking experience right now and should probably only really be broached five or so years down the line.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100 (Aug 2018)

'Standard bearer for SA reds, with smidgen carignan joining shiraz, mourvèdre, grenache, cinsaut & tinta in 2016. Powerful, almost austere, benefits from decanting & will reward decade+ cellaring. Despite ongoing drought, exhibits house’s fruit authenticity & integrity, fine-grained tannin structure.' - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2019, 5* (94/100)

‘On the nose, the 2016 Columella reminds me of sitting on the beach eating a bowl of blackberries and dark cherries. The nose has a structural rigidity with a firm mineral presence, which I typically get from the Northern Rhône. Once on the palate, the wine expands in the mouth, unfolding its layers, showing great complexity with a tightly structured grip. Medium-bodied, the complexity continues on to the finish, continually expressing new sensations, ending with fresh cherry skins with a long, taught finish. Very few wines show this elegance and mineral tension, alongside with the dusty freshness and vibrancy. Columella has always had a special place in my heart, and this is a fine example. You'll want to lay this down in your cellar for some time. I have the notion that it is going to age like a king. Impressive!’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 93+/100 (Oct 2019)

‘The 2016 Columella was matured for 12 months in 10% new oak and then 12 months in old foudres. There is something warm and comforting about the nose: blueberry, crushed violet, a touch of burning embers, almost a damp clay scent. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannin, the Syrah not as pronounced as previous vintages (a policy pursued by Eben as he increased Grenache), and delivering gentle grip toward the slightly peppered finish and long, black-pepper-tinged aftertaste. Very impressive.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 93/100 (Aug 2018)