Scions of Sinai new releases

Bernhard Bredell of Scions of Sinai describes the 2021 vintage as cooler than 2020 leading to slower sugar accumulation and the resulting wines do seem to have an extra refinement about them.

Scions of Sinai Señor Tallos 2021
Price: R230

50% Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc and 50% Voor-Paardeberg Grenache Blanc, skin macerated for a period just shy of one month. Ageing under flor also incorporated as part of the winemaking process. Striking aromatics of citrus, apple, stone fruit, potpourri, dried herbs and almond. The palate is light (alcohol is 11.1%) but super-flavourful – pure fruit, zippy acidity and some tannic grip to the finish.

CE’s: rating: 92/100.

Scions of Sinai Atlantikas 2021
Price: R175

What Bredell describes as a “farmer’s rosé”- more substantial than your average pink wine but not quite a light red. Grapes from the lesser parts of the 1976 Lower Helderberg vineyard that also supplies his more premium Féniks Pinotage bottling plus another 1996 vineyard that Bredell is keen to preserve. Around 25% whole-bunch fermentation, before eight months maturation in tank. Intense floral perfume, cherry and plum on the nose while the palate is juicy and bright with soft tannins. Cheerful and charming.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Scions of Sinai Nomadis 2021
Price: R230

87% Cinsault and 13% Pinotage, both vineyards on the Lower Helderberg. Winemaking involved round 50% and therefore slightly less whole-bunch fermentation than 2020. A slight note of reduction before cherry and pomegranate plus hints of flowers and herbs. The palate is again light but wonderfully focused – good fruit definition, bright acidity and fine tannins, the finish nicely dry.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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