Scions of Sinai: The New Soul of the Helderberg
In the rugged hills of Stellenbosch’s Lower Helderberg, a quiet revolution is taking place. Bernhard Bredell, seventh-generation grower and founder of Scions of Sinai, is redefining what fine South African wine can be. Since launching his label in 2016, Bredell has dedicated himself to reviving the old bush vines planted by his grandfather on Sinai Hill, crafting wines that express purity, place and patience.
Bredell’s vineyards are small, dry-farmed and organically tended, their deep roots anchored in decomposed granite and silica soils just a few kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean. The cooling influence of the sea, combined with these ancient soils, gives his wines an unmistakable brightness and precision. Fermentations are natural, oak is used sparingly, and each vineyard is treated as a living organism. The result is a portfolio of wines that hum with energy, offering clarity over power, balance over bravado.
Alongside peers such as Lukas van Loggerenberg and Danie Steytler Jr., Bredell has become a leading figure in the Cape’s new wave. His work at Scions of Sinai bridges the region’s deep heritage with a modern sensibility, proving that Stellenbosch’s future lies in authenticity, restraint and terroir-driven detail.
Wines Produced at Scions of Sinai
Granietsteen Chenin Blanc
Planted in 1978 on decomposed granite soils in the Lower Helderberg, this old-vine Chenin Blanc captures the essence of its terroir with remarkable precision. Fermented with native yeasts and aged on lees in old oak, it reveals aromas of citrus peel, pear and crushed stone. On the palate, it is taut, saline and textured, showcasing the mineral energy of its granite roots. Now a benchmark for South African Chenin Blanc, the 2024 vintage earned 97 points from Tim Atkin.
Gramadoelas Grenache Blanc
From a high-altitude vineyard in the Klein Karoo near the Swartberg Mountains, Gramadoelas is one of the Cape’s most distinctive white wines. Planted in 2009 on schist and shale soils, the vines produce small, concentrated berries that yield a textured yet vibrant wine. Aromas of white peach, fennel and crushed rock lead to a palate of saline precision and fine grip. It’s a rare and captivating expression of Grenache Blanc that showcases the diversity of Scions of Sinai’s craft.
Swanesang Syrah
From the last remaining bushvine Syrah in the Helderberg, planted in 1996, Swanesang combines perfumed red fruit with subtle spice and mineral lift. Whole-bunch fermentation enhances floral aromatics and structure, while ageing in old oak brings harmony and depth. The result is a pure, expressive Syrah with notes of violet, cranberry and cracked pepper.
Heldervallei Cinsault
Produced from old bush vines planted in 1988 beside the Granietsteen vineyard, Heldervallei Cinsault is refined and fragrant. It offers aromas of redcurrant, rose petal and wild herbs, framed by soft tannins and a crystalline finish. More akin to a fine Burgundy than traditional Cinsault, this wine captures the balance and grace that define Scions of Sinai’s style.
Feniks Pinotage
Sourced from dry-farmed bush vines planted in 1976, Feniks is an elegant and vibrant expression of Pinotage that challenges convention. It bursts with red cherry, plum and floral spice, underpinned by bright acidity and fine, silky tannins. The wine’s freshness and restraint mark a modern evolution of the variety, proving its potential for finesse and longevity.
Nomadis Cinsault–Pinotage Blend
A seamless union of Cinsault’s perfume and Pinotage’s structure, Nomadis is elegant and energetic. Fermented naturally and aged in neutral oak, it delivers aromas of red cherry, spice and earth, with supple texture and lingering freshness. A reflection of Bernhard’s creativity, it embodies harmony and movement.
