We are so excited about the first annual
Hella Chenin WIne Festival, hosted here in Berkeley at Hammerling Wines on May 3rd! Bringing together 26 Californian winemakers and 10 from South Africa, it's a celebration of the wonderful Chenin Blanc grape and the community around the globe who champions it. Tickets to the festival are
unfortunately sold out, but we're so excited to host two South African winemakers who'll be attending for a pre-party and tasting on Wednesday April 30th here at Vintage Berkeley Vine Street!
Bernhard Bredell and Ali Verbung represent the most exciting wave of new South African winemaking—deeply rooted in history, yet pushing boundaries with a focus on organic and regenerative farming with minimal-intervention practices.
Bernhard of Scions of Sinai Wines is one of South Africa’s most important regenerative grape growers, focusing on dry-farmed bush vines in Helderberg (Stellenbosch). A seventh-generation winemaker, his passion for the land in which he farms is contagious and inspiring. Scions of Sinai is known for its dedication to old, bush vine Chenin Blanc, Cinsault, and Pinotage, alongside Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon from younger plantings.
Nestled in the cool-climate region of Bot River, Luddite Wines is one of South Africa’s most celebrated producers of Chenin Blanc and Syrah. Soon to step into the spotlight is Ali Verburg, the youngest daughter of Niels and Penny. Although she’s grown up on the farm, Ali started working at Luddite in 2017. In between, she has made wine in various northern hemisphere regions: Sicily, Bordeaux, Germany, United Kingdom, and Michigan. As she prepares to take the helm at Luddite, she’s blending tradition with fresh energy, ensuring Luddite continues to evolve in bold and exciting ways.
These wines are truly special, and this tasting is an amazing opportunity to meet Ali & Bernhard and taste the new wave of South African wines!
Many thanks to Peter Andrews of the Hella Chenin Fest and Culture Wine Co. for organizing such an amazing festival, and for importing and championing an incredible selection of South African wines!
Tasting Line Up
Luddite Wines
2023 Saboteur White
2021 Saboteur Red
Scions of Sinai
2024 Atlantikas Pinotage
2024 Granitas Cape White Blend
2024 Granietsteen Chenin Blanc
