Strange Kompanjie Unlimited is a project focusing on lesser-known grape varieties and unconventional winemaking in South Africa. The wines are certified under the national sustainability scheme and the “Unlimited” label is used for this experimental side-project that explores unusual grapes, natural fermentation, skin contact and ceramic eggs.

Paarl is a historic and diverse wine region located in South Africa’s Western Cape, not New Zealand. Situated just north of Stellenbosch, it is one of the country’s oldest wine-producing areas and plays a key role in the South African wine industry, home to many established producers and cooperatives.

The region has a warm Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The Berg River provides essential irrigation, while the nearby Drakenstein and Paarl Mountains offer elevation and varying exposures that help moderate the heat. Granite-based soils and cooling afternoon breezes also contribute to the quality and balance of the wines.

Paarl is known for its full-bodied red wines, particularly Shiraz (Syrah), which thrives in the warm conditions and produces rich, spicy styles. Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage are also widely planted, with the latter being a uniquely South African variety. Among white grapes, Chenin Blanc – South Africa’s most planted variety – performs well, producing anything from fresh, zesty wines to complex, barrel-aged examples. Chardonnay and Viognier are also notable.

While once overshadowed by Stellenbosch, Paarl has gained renewed attention for its diversity, improved quality, and focus on sustainability, producing wines with both power and finesse.

Grenache Gris is a pink-skinned mutation of the Grenache grape, originating in Spain—where it is known as Garnacha Roja—before gaining prominence in southern France, particularly in the Roussillon and Languedoc regions. Like its close relatives Grenache Noir and Grenache Blanc, it thrives in warm, dry climates and is well adapted to poor, stony soils. The variety is vigorous and hardy, tolerant of drought and wind, but requires careful canopy management to maintain acidity and avoid excessive yields.

Today, Grenache Gris is grown primarily in France, especially in the Côtes Catalanes, Collioure, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellations, though smaller plantings exist in Spain, South Africa, the United States, and Australia. Despite its modest global footprint, it is valued for its ability to produce both still and fortified wines with considerable character.

The wines are typically full-bodied and richly textured, with moderate acidity and a distinctive savoury edge. Aromas often include stone fruit, citrus peel, melon, and subtle spice, with a hint of saline minerality reflecting its Mediterranean origins. In blends, it contributes weight and complexity, while varietal expressions—often made in a lightly oxidative or barrel-fermented style—show impressive depth, elegance, and an appealingly silky mouthfeel.