Experience the soulful essence of a forgotten era with the Fledge & Co Veld Versnip Field Blend. This heritage-inspired red wine revives the traditional “field blend” viticulture of pre-Phylloxera Stellenbosch. Winemakers Leon Coetzee and Margaux Nel source this unique “mix” from a tiny, hand-tended vineyard in the Jonkershoek mountains. They harvest the Cinsault, Cabernet Franc, and Alicante Bouschet together on a single morning to ensure a true snapshot of the vintage. You will enjoy a “shape-shifter” of a wine that offers both hedonistic fruit and serious structural intrigue.
The wine displays a vibrant ruby hue with an aromatic profile of mulberries, hedgerow fruits, and dried thyme. On the palate, you will discover a joyous juiciness balanced by firmly restrained tannins and hints of graphite. This medium-bodied blend delivers a savory complexity that evolves with every sip. It pairs exceptionally well with rustic fare like slow-roasted leg of lamb or a rich venison pie. Every 750ml bottle reflects the “chameleon” nature of the vineyard and the passion of its creators.
The Veld Versnip Field Blend consistently attracts high praise from top South African wine critics. Wine Wizard (Michael Fridjhon) recently awarded the range an impressive 88 Points, highlighting its intriguing, disjointed charm. Previous vintages of Fledge & Co reds have secured 93 Points from Tim Atkin MW and Silver at the Trophy Wine Show. These ratings confirm the estate’s status as a leader in artisanal, minimal-intervention winemaking. It remains a rare find for collectors seeking authentic, heritage-driven South African expressions.