about us
Thirst for a global palate since 2020.
We are three long time friends with a mutual love for wine. We started this adventure together late 2019, with our first harvest in the fall of 2020.
We are a small boutique winery, producing about 300 cases per year. With our first release, we have featured our signature Bordeaux style blend. Along with all the leading varietals presented on their own for your enjoyment.
Momento Family
Melanie Feifel
Owner and Winemaker
Melanie began her love for wine in the college town of Lawrence Kansas while working at a local restaurant. Since moving to Washington, in 2009, she fell into the loving arms of the Grape Choice in Kirkland. She has been actively engaged in the Washington wine industry for over 14 years. Her love for this amazing community drove her to join this band of misfits to produce wine that we love to drink with our friends and family.
As she always says “the more the merrier!”
Phillip Pacini
Owner and Winemaker
Phillip started his wine journey on a trip to Napa to visit family. On this trip he and his wife Maria Teresa fell in love with the Vino. They made a few batches of wine in their one-bedroom apartment closet and at that point knew they wanted to expand the passion. Phillip started working in the WA wine industry in 2017 where he learned the trade under Winemaker Lisa Packer before starting Momento with his friends. Phillip is working on finalizing his winemaking certificate from UC Davis. His passion is in Bordeaux and Spanish wines specially Petit Verdot. Phillip was raised in Barranquilla, Colombia and strongly honors his Colombian, Italian and Spanish heritages through his passion for food and wine.
Russ Branham
Owner, Assistant Winemaker and Accounting
Russ was first introduced to the grape during a one year work assignment in Europe. Since then he continues to enjoy good vintages with family and friends. After relocating to Washington State in 2008 he was introduce to Woodinville urban wine county. After enjoying vintages of many other winemakers, what’s better than to make your own with friends!
Maria Teresa Cruz-Pacini
Curator of Fun Experiences
Maria is a dedicated learner of all things wine. As part of her dedication exploring wine, Maria acquired her certification as a WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and is in the process of pursuing the next level. She is curious about sensory characteristics of wine, including food and wine pairings. Maria is looking forward to curating awesome wine experiences for Momento Cellars club members.