Marras Grenache 2016

Wine of Origin: Piekenierskloof

Cellarmaster: Martin Lamprecht

Winery: Marras Wines

Background: The recent results of this years Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show once again showcased some of the Capes finest wines which included several new “kids on the block” one of which being my choice for this week’s wine, The Marras Grenache 2016. After his studies, Martin “Marras” Lamprecht, trained under David Nieuwoudt of Cederberg Cellars before embarking on a trip to France where he broadened his knowledge of French winemaking. It was here that he studied and worked with the cultivars he now uses for his range of wines which he produces locally from the Swartland and Piekenierskloof areas. Martin comments ““They taught me how to produce wine that correctly showcases the history of the vineyard and its people.” Martin currently produces four wines – two Chenin’s, a Shiraz/ Cinsault blend and the Grenache. Martin believes the Piekenierskloof region is the ideal growing area for Grenache and found a suitable vineyard for this wine. The drier soils of the vineyard benefit from the warm rising temperatures of the Swartland during the day and the cool Atlantic breezes at night giving the wine the desired depth and complexity. The wine was partially natural fermented and once complete the wine spent 10 months in older oak barrels prior to bottling.

Result: Excellent wine offering beautiful balance of sweet fruit, peppery and spice flavours with soft tannins and vibrant intensity. .

When to drink: Now till 2020

Drink with what:  This a perfect sipping wine for winter but can be enjoyed with a hot bowl of meat based pastas.

Expect to pay:  R87.00