Terrasse is Keermnont's barrel fermented white blend which derives its name from the terraced vineyards leading up the mountains on the estate. We have six different white wine varieties planted on these terraces and every year we make up a unique blend. The base is Chenin blanc from three distinctive vineyards – our old vine Riverside block planted in 1971, the dryland bush vine Bobbejaan Wingerd (Baboon Vineyard), and the trellised Low Road vineyard.
The other varieties add complexity and create a more complete wine. Chardonnay gives a little more weight on the palate, Sauvignon blanc brings fresh acidity, and the drop of Viognier gives this vintage a slight spicy, aromatic lift. All grapes used in producing our wines are grown on Keermont Vineyards. The farm is situated at the upper reaches of the Blaauwklippen Valley above Stellenbosch. Most of the vineyards grow in deep red clay rich soil derived from sandstone and granite and are surrounded by indigenous mountain vegetation.
Small batches of grapes are specifically selected according to ripeness, harvested by hand and vinified separately.
White wines are fermented by indigenous yeast in seasoned French oak barrels and then spend a further 12 months maturing on the lees. Bottling is carried out by hand without filtration. 9055 bottles and 50 magnums were produced.
TASTING NOTE
Terrasse 2019 has a polished, light-yellow gold colour, with an explosive bouquet of lime, apple, pineapple, and peach with notes of vanilla, and butterscotch. The palate is rich, but fresh. A seemingly weightless entry comes quickly to life with ripe apricot, peach, and pear flavours complimented by cut grass, vanilla oak, and rich lees. This is followed by a lingering sweet-sour aftertaste.