Keermont

Set high in Stellenbosch’s Upper Blaauwklippen Valley, in a natural amphitheatre between the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountains, Keermont is one of the Cape’s most characterful estate producers. Owned by the Wraith family since 2003 and guided by winemaker Alex Starey since 2005, the estate works exclusively with its own fruit, grown across a patchwork of distinct mountain parcels planted between roughly 250 and 400 metres above sea level. The combination of altitude, varied aspects, decomposed granite and sandstone soils, and cooling influence from the nearby ocean brings both freshness and detail to the wines. In the cellar, Starey follows a thoughtful low-intervention approach, using natural fermentations and minimal filtration to let the site speak clearly. While the brilliantly drinkable Terrasse white blend offers one of Stellenbosch’s best-value introductions, Keermont has become especially admired for its superb Syrahs, old-vine Chenin Blanc and excellent Cabernets, wines that consistently overdeliver and age with real grace.