Terracura new releases

After 15 years of experimentation, Terracura is returning to its roots. Founder Michael Roets, who famously bought a concrete egg at the 2010 Swartland Revolution and then decided his own label was a good idea, had decided to downscale from negotiant business to the original passion project. Apparently, the focus going forwards will be on just two wines, a Chenin Blanc and Syrah with perhaps some occasional special releases.

Collaboration with Chris Groenewald, Terracura’s winemaker since 2022, continues through 2026, though Groenewald is also increasingly focusing on developing his own label – see here.

Spesiale 2024
Price: R385
Never the same wine twice. This vintage from Swartland Semillon Gris. Seven days of skin contact. Matured for 10 months in concrete egg. Table grape, red apple and strawberry plus hints of potpourri, fynbos and hay. Juicy and fresh with a gently savoury finish. Well balanced – accessible yet far from facile. Alc: 12.5%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Terracura Syrah 2024
Price: R465
The first Syrah under the Terracura label since 2017, grapes from Durbanville and 100% whole-bunch fermented. Aromas of red and black berries overlaid with subtle hints of rose, fynbos, cured meat, and pepper. The palate is both succulent and energetic – pure fruit, vibrant acidity  and super-fine tannins. Restrained yet unmistakably true to the finest examples of the variety. Medium to light-bodied, it delivers charm, precision, and balance. Alc: 13.23%.

CE’s rating: 95/100.

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