Scions of Sinai new releases

Bernhard Bredell of Scions of Sinai says of the 2022 vintage that earlier varieties were harvested at lower acidities due to warmer weather. “You needed to be present in the vineyard – hands out, feet in”. His so-called “Western Range” (labels featuring cartoon cowboys) will soon be released, tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Scions of Sinai Señor Tallos 2022
Price: R245
51% Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc and 49% Voor-Paardeberg Grenache Blanc, skin macerated for a period of two weeks – shorter than previously with view to less conspicuous phenolics. Aged under flor for eight months in older barrel and tank. Some floral perfume before orange, yellow peach and spice as well as an ever so slight nuttiness on the nose. Light bodied with moderate acidity and softer tannins than usual – well balanced, open and accessible.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Scions of Sinai Atlantikas 2022
Price: R185
100% Pinotage. Grapes from two Helderberg vineyards planted on granitic soils close to False Bay, the first planted in 1976 and the second in 1996. 30% whole-bunch fermentation and matured in tank. Appealing aromatics of red cherry, plum and floral perfume. Lovely fruit expression, perky acidity and crunchy tannins – full of energy and cheerfulness but also wonderfully uncontrived.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Scions of Sinai Nomadis 2022
Price: R245
88% Cinsault and 12% Pinotage from Helderberg vineyards planted on light-texture silica soils close to the ocean. 45% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting eight months in older oak. Some reduction before red and black cherry plus spice. This vintage not as immediately winning as previous but still intriguing – quite lean with slightly bitter tannins.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

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