Scions of Sinai new releases

Bernhard Bredell makes an accomplished set of single vineyard wines but also some slightly less expensive wines each bearing sketched depictions of a “cowboy” scene on the label, these all at least a little bit maverick. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Scions of Sinai Atlantikas 2020
Price: R160
Pinotage from the Lower Helderberg. A portion undergoing whole-bunch fermentation, another destemmed and left on the skins very briefly, another undergoing whole-berry fermentation before maturation in tank for eight months. Cherry, cranberry and raspberry plus a subtle herbal note on the nose while the palate is light-bodied, juicy and fresh with a slight earthy quality to the finish. A cheerful, charming drop. Alcohol: 11.5%.

CE’s rating: 88/100.

Scions of Sinai Señor Tallos 2020
Price: R225
51% Chenin Blanc from Stellenbosch and 49% Grenache Blanc, the former component fermented on the skins for four weeks, the latter put on to the Chenin skins for two weeks post fermentation and then 70% aged under flor. The nose shows citrus, stone fruit and some Sherry-like nuttiness while the palate is lean and super-dry. This manages to be both intellectually engaging and more-ish at the same time. Alcohol: 11.5%.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Scions of Sinai Nomadis 2020
Price: R225
86% from a 1975 Cinsault vineyard and 14% from a 1976 Pinotage vineyard, both on the Lower Helderberg. Predominantly made using whole-bunch, semi-carbonic fermentation. Black cherry, a hint of smoky reduction and a little earthiness on the nose. Good fruit expression, bright acidity and nicely grippy tannins, the two varieties combining well to provide a wine that for all its lightness, still has pleasing structure. Alcohol: 11.5%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

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