2021 Momento Grenache Gris

Born from a passion for Mediterranean grape varieties and old-vine fruit, Momento is the solo project from dynamic, young South African winemaker Marelise Niemann. Her fascination with Grenache was sparked while in Priorat, Spain and on her return to South Africa, she began seeking out parcels of old vine Grenache to make her own elegant and soulful wines. In 2023 she was named Tim Atkin’s ‘Young Winemaker of the Year’ in recognition of her exceptional work.  Fruit for Momento is sourced from vineyard parcels in the Swartland and Bot River. The Swartland’s low rainfall, combined with granite soils, produces wines with richness and depth.  Marelise’s winemaking is minimalist, utilising indigenous yeast barrel fermentations, old basket presses, manual punch downs and maturation in old French oak to preserve a profound purity of fruit.

The Momento Grenache Gris is sourced from the only vineyard of this variety in South Africa, its traditional home being the south of France.  Copper-skinned it displays a waxy mouthfeel, exotic fruit, and a savoury, herbal edge.