SOMMELIER RETREAT

Momento: It’s the softer side of Grenache. This grape generally presents many faces, places, styles and weights. This 2016 from South Africa is dominated by a charming ripe red fruit potpourri, with notes of raspberry, strawberry, and rhubarb preserves. The palate is brightened with spicy white and pink peppercorn, orange zest and oolong tea, and is finished with a seamlessly fresh texture. The wine and style seem to be forged from the same passionate curiosity that guided Marelise Niemann, owner and winemaker at Momento, to travel, learn, and go for it. She’s had a meteoric rise, and the wines certainly deserve the recognition. Open since 2013 and producing only about 9,000 bottles annually, Momento and its marriage to Broadbent Selections seems to be a match made in heaven. The greatest takeaway from tasting this silver medal selection is excitement. I’m most certainly eager to continue to enjoy these thoughtful wines through the years as the commitment to excellence is clear.