2022 Grenache Gris
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Tasting notes
Sourced from what was until recently the only Grenache Gris vineyard in South Africa (Fram has since planted a parcel), on the Voor-Paardeberg. The fruit spends a week on skins, developing a beautiful copper tint and spicy phenolics that add structure to the wine. The nose is haunting – packed with ginger, heady quince and orange peel. There’s a rush of contrasting texture and freshness on the palate, with a chalky grip and mineral undertow to the wine, a tight tanginess leading the mouthwatering and spicy finish. Crying out to be paired with spicy food.
Critic scores
Average Score
Tim Atkin MW
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Willie Mostert's farm on the Voor Paardeberg is the source of this complex, rose petal-scented Grenache Gris, which spent seven pre-fermentation days on its skins. Concentrated, focused and refreshing, it has quince and blood orange flavour, a touch of colour and appealing quinine bitterness.
The 2022 Grenache Gris comes from the only vineyard planted in the country, 15% of stems returned to the vat after crushing and aged 11 months in oak (20% new). The attractive nose brings very well-defined pressed yellow flower, jasmine, and light musky aromas. The palate is well-balanced with a sharp citric entry that segues into a texturally satisfying mid-palate, with hints of lemongrass and white pepper decorating the finish. There is an effortlessness to this Grenache Gris that is very appealing.
About the producer
Marelise Niemann’s Momento project is among South Africa’s most exciting. Named Tim Atkin MW’s Young Winemaker of the Year in 2023, Niemann farms old-vine parcels in Bot River and the Swartland, focusing on Grenache and crafting site-expressive wines that belong on the world stage.