Terracura current releases

Former Terracura winemaker Ryan Mostert has left for London and Chris Groenewald, importer, distributor and holder of a DipWSET qualification, has bought into the company, ownership now shared equally between him and original founder Michael Roets.

Groenewald, who will take care of winemaking going forward, bottled the latest releases of the spin-off Smiley wines, tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Smiley Fresh Non-Vintage
Price: R160
82% Chenin Blanc and 18% Grenache Blanc from Swartland. 60% from the 2022 vintage, the rest from components going back to 2016 – tiny skin-fermented and maderised portions. Citrus, peach and potpourri on the nose while the palate is medium bodied with moderate acidity and a gently savoury finish. Engaging without being too challenging.

CE’s rating: 89/100.

Smiley White Non-Vintage V6
Price: R195
86% Chenin Blanc and 14% Grenache Blanc, vintages again spanning 2016 to 2022, 20% skin contact, 3% maderised and 1% fermented under flor. Complex aromatics of citrus, peach, apricot and pineapple plus some nuttiness, some waxiness, ginger and other spice. Good fruit density and tangy acidity before a savoury finish. Impressive richness given an alcohol of just 12% while a little phenolic grip adds interest. A compelling wine with layers of flavour.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Smiley Red Non-vintage V6
Price: R195
45% Syrah, the rest equal parts Touriga Nacional, Grenache and Cinsault, all grapes from the 2021 season although certified as non-vintage. Red and black berries, violets, fynbos, olive brine and pepper on the nose while the palate has good depth of fruit and bright acidity before a savoury finish, the tannins nicely grippy. Intensely flavoured, and just a little idiosyncratic. Alcohol: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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