Scions of Sinai new releases
By Christian Eedes, 12 January 2021
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.
Check out our South African wine ratings database.
Attention: Reviews like this take time and effort to create. We need your support to make our work possible. To make a financial contribution, click here. Invoice available upon request – contact info@winemag.co.za
Comments
0 comment(s)
Please read our Comments Policy here.