Vondeling Monsonia, unlabelled. Vondeling Monsonia, unlabelled.

Monsonia is a rich, complex Mediterranean-style red blend, combining generous dark fruit with savoury character and beautifully integrated tannins.

Expect layers of ripe blackberries, dark cherries and plums, complemented by notes of black pepper, dried herbs and subtle spice.

The wine offers excellent concentration without sacrificing freshness. Its structured tannins, balanced acidity and lingering savoury finish make it particularly appealing to those who enjoy serious, full-bodied South African red wines.

An excellent wine to enjoy alongside grilled red meat, slow-cooked lamb or a traditional South African braai.

What makes Monsonia particularly interesting is the care taken in the vineyards. The grapes are selectively harvested by hand, with each variety grown on slopes suited to its character.

The Shiraz comes from ancient granite soils on southeast-facing slopes, while the Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache are grown as traditional bush vines on warmer, northeast-facing slopes. These untrellised vines provide natural shade, protecting the fruit from the intense summer sun.

Vondeling also places considerable emphasis on sustainable farming, using cover crops to improve soil health, carefully managing water usage and minimising chemical applications.

It’s an approach that respects the unique conditions of the Paardeberg and allows the character of the vineyards to come through in the finished wine.

Vondeling’s vineyards and cellar is situated on the slopes of the Paardeberg Mountain in Voor-Paardeberg, a remarkable wine-growing region just outside of Paarl.

What makes this area unique, is the ancient decomposed granite soils, warm climate and cooling afternoon winds. These conditions allow for beautifully concentrated wines while retaining freshness and structure.

Vondeling’s flagship red blend, Monsonia, is named after a rare indigenous flower found on the mountain. The wine brings together Mediterranean grape varieties, including Shiraz, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache.