The Fledge & Co.
Off the beaten track …
Hand crafted, unfaltering quality wines
A love affair born during lockdown, when I stumbled upon these fine folk one glorious day, searching for my next wine delivery. Now might I mention, to an address that reads something like “at the end of a long winding road, down through the Kloof, up a little cobbled driveway, and at the end of the beach” … and so it began, my love for their Steen.
Steen is in fact, just another word for Chenin, which originates from the Loire, but has become one of South Africa’s most widely planted white varietals. And these folk know just how to turn grapes into bottles of glory. They don’t own their own vineyard, but are master crafters of vinification, turning grapes sourced from around the Cape into a plethora of choice for those wine lovers amongst us. Margaux and Louis do it all old school, by hand, making sure to hero the vine and showcase what matters, with their absolute passion for creating something a little different.
As someone who enjoys the finer things in life, these wines sing to me, most days in fact, and I do hope you might explore this glorious label too. The Hoeksteen, a pour that like the humble table napkin, easily scrunched, exudes texture and complexity. The Vagabond, bright and elegant, is like warm weather in a bottle, notes of honey and yellow fruits, refreshing acidity, yet perfectly balanced, it’s hard to stop at one glass and always, a most welcome reprieve. The Klipspringer, a barrel fermented pour that will elevate the spirts and add cheery buoyancy to your glass, golden and delicious, with zesty acidity. They only craft wines they like to drink, so it’s no wonder they are drunk with ease and enjoyment. Convivial bottles for any occasion.
They also make a damn fine selection of reds, a Pinot worth sharing, although you won’t want too, a real symphony for the senses. A Shiraz, for those cooler, gustier nights, and my list could go on, but perhaps you should take a peak for yourselves. They are friendly folk, so look them up and enjoy some of these wines in good cheer with fine fare. Their unwavering goal and one I am more than happy to oblige. I’ll do my best Leon, I’ll do my best.
I am always happy to share my knowledge of wines you perhaps know little about, and this is one you should get know to know more of. And perhaps don’t stop at one glass.
