Terra Loci, Fe Chardonnay 2024

Sourced from the cool-climate Elgin region, where altitude and proximity to the ocean help preserve freshness and natural acidity.

Terra Loci takes a restrained, hands-off approach to Chardonnay, using barrel fermentation and maturation to build texture without masking the fruit. Lees contact adds breadth and complexity, while malolactic fermentation is deliberately limited to retain tension and freshness.

The resulting style balances creamy texture and subtle oak with the vineyard’s bright citrus fruit and mineral character.

Terra Loci is a small, nomadic South African wine project founded in 2021 by friends and winemakers Bertus Fourie, Johann Fourie and Pieter du Toit. Rather than being tied to a single estate, they seek out distinctive vineyards across the Cape, working closely with growers to make small-batch wines that capture the character of each place.

The name tells the story: Terra means land or earth, while Loci refers to places or points of origin. It is a philosophy reflected in wines made with restraint, precision and minimal intervention, allowing vineyard and vintage to lead.

The trio bring considerable experience to the project. Johann’s winemaking stretches from South Africa to England, Bertus combines technical winemaking with an instinctive approach to flavour, while fifth-generation Stellenbosch winemaker Pieter has worked with leading wineries around the world.

Terra Loci was named Platter’s Newcomer Winery of the Year in 2025, an impressive early recognition for a project built firmly around place.