Bonny M | April 6, 2025
Watsonia Wine was born from Sonia’s deep personal connection to her roots, combining her maiden surname, ‘Watson,’ and her first name, ‘Sonia.’ This fusion is a tribute to her family legacy and the woman who inspired her journey.
Driven by a passion for winemaking, Sonia’s long-held dream of owning a vineyard came to life through a collaboration with Haute Cabrière. Together, they launched Watsonia Wine in 2023, seamlessly blending Sonia’s heritage with a deep love for South Africa’s winemaking traditions. Their partnership led to the creation of two premium wine blends from Franschhoek, each one showcasing exceptional quality, versatility, and passion.
Proudly woman-owned, Watsonia Wine holds B-BBEE Level 4 status and has already gained international recognition, with exports to New Zealand and plans for further expansion. Beyond winemaking, Sonia’s commitment to community involvement and family support makes Watsonia Wine a true symbol of perseverance and success.
Watsonia Wine sources its premium wines from the Franschhoek region in South Africa, a region renowned for its rich history and ideal conditions for wine production. Established by French Huguenot settlers, Franschhoek benefits from a Mediterranean climate, diverse terroirs, and a mix of soils, creating an environment perfectly suited for cultivating a wide variety of grape varieties, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.
Franschhoek, often referred to as “French Corner,” enjoys the benefits of cool ocean breezes and mountain shelter, which help produce grapes with balanced acidity and complexity. The influence of French winemaking traditions continues to shape the region, resulting in elegant and refined wines.
The valley’s diverse terroir, featuring granite, clay, and shale soils, enables a variety of wine styles, ranging from fresh whites to rich reds. Key grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends thrive in the region’s distinct microclimates.
Franschhoek’s wineries are globally recognized for their commitment to quality, and its wines have garnered international acclaim. The region’s blend of tradition, innovation, and natural resources continues to make it one of South Africa’s premier wine-producing areas.
Watsonia Wine combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations to craft exceptional wines. By blending heritage with cutting-edge methods, the winery honours the past while embracing the best practices of today’s winemaking.
Traditional Winemaking Techniques :
*Heritage-Inspired Blends: The winery uses traditional blending methods, such as combining Syrah and Pinot Noir for red wines and Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for whites, which reflect European winemaking practices.
*Handcrafted Production: Emphasizing personal care, the winery handpicks grapes and carefully controls the fermentation process, sourcing its grapes from the prestigious Franschhoek region.
*Aging in Oak Barrels: In line with tradition, some wines are aged in oak barrels, enhancing their complexity and flavour.
Modern Innovations :
*Precision Viticulture: Using advanced technology like soil sensors and satellite imagery, Watsonia Wine ensures optimal grape health and harvest timing.
*Sustainable Practices: The winery implements eco-friendly methods, including reduced water usage, minimized chemicals, and the use of renewable energy.
*Technological Advancements in Fermentation: Techniques such as temperature-controlled fermentation and stainless-steel tanks help preserve the freshness of the wine.
*Blending Innovation: Data-driven techniques are employed to fine-tune the blends, ensuring the optimal balance and expression of South African terroir.
*Quality Control and Consistency: Advanced equipment ensures consistent quality by precisely managing acidity, sugar levels, and fermentation health.
Watsonia Wine offers two premium blends with versatile pairings that range from grilled meats and stews for the red wine to seafood and salads for the white, making both wines suitable for a variety of delightful meals.
Premium Red Wine (Syrah & Pinot Noir Blend)
This wine strikes a perfect balance between boldness and elegance, with rich dark fruit flavours, spice, and a smooth texture, making it ideal for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. Its versatility also makes it a favourite for pairing with a variety of dishes.
Flavour Profile:
A pioneering blend, rich in colour, with pleasant red berry fruit and a touch of spiciness on the nose, followed by hints of cedar, which develop from 18 months in French Oak barrels. This combination of Pinot Noir and Syrah creates a beautiful balance of delicacy and full body.
Finish:
Long and rounded, with lingering dark fruit and spice.
Pairing :
Grilled Meats & BBQ: The bold Syrah and spicy Pinot Noir blend pairs perfectly with smoky, grilled meats like lamb chops or steak.
Charcuterie & Cured Meats: Try this wine with a charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, salami, and aged cheeses.
Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as portobello mushrooms or butternut squash to complement its earthy notes.
Rich Sauces & Stews: The wine’s complexity is ideal for hearty dishes like beef stew or slow-braised short ribs.
Premium White Wine (Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Blend)
Known for its citrus-driven freshness and balanced structure, this white wine combines the crispness of Chardonnay with the subtle fruit notes of Pinot Noir. It’s refreshing profile makes it perfect for pairing with seafood, salads, and light meals.
Flavour Profile:
A fresh, unwooded blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It features pleasant citrus flavours with subtle hints of caramel, giving it a unique and refreshing taste.
Finish:
Clean, fresh, and slightly mineral.
Pairing :
Seafood & Shellfish: The crisp acidity of this wine makes it a great match for grilled fish, shrimp, or lobster.
Light Poultry Dishes: Pair with grilled chicken, roast turkey, or herb-based poultry dishes.
Fresh Salads & Vegetables: A goat cheese salad or green bean salad complements the wine’s fresh, citrus notes.
Soft Cheeses: Brie, camembert, and fresh mozzarella are ideal for this wine’s balanced fruit and acidity.
Light Pasta Dishes: Pair with pasta primavera or linguine with olive oil and garlic to highlight the wine’s acidity.
Why These Wines Are Favourites:
Accessibility: Both wines cater to a broad audience, from casual drinkers to connoisseurs.
Quality: Sourced from the renowned Franschhoek region, the wines reflect the area’s best terroir.
Innovative Blends: The unique blends keep customers excited and engaged.
Story: The woman-owned brand and its local roots resonate with customers, adding an emotional connection.
Both wines offer complexity and accessibility, reflecting the unique terroir of South Africa’s Franschhoek region. These blends are ideal for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. In summary, Watsonia Wines are favourites due to their exceptional quality, versatility, and the brand’s authentic story.
Wine lovers can anticipate a tasting experience that is both refined and inviting. Watsonia’s wines are more than just beautifully crafted, they are soulful, layered, and inspired. With each glass, you taste elegance, passion, and the essence of Franschhoek. This is wine with heart, heritage, and a vision that stretches far beyond the vineyard.
As a woman-owned enterprise with B-BBEE Level 4 status, Watsonia Wine stands as a beacon of empowerment. It supports local communities and celebrates the strength and leadership of women in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
While Watsonia wines are making waves internationally, they remain deeply connected to their South African roots. Available online across the country, they bring world-class quality straight to your doorstep.
Readers can connect with Watsonia Wines team through the following channels:
Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for updates and personal engagement through private tastings and wine events.
Watsonia Wine is easily accessible through its online store at www.watsoniawine.co.za, offering local delivery in South Africa and international shipping to destinations like New Zealand, with plans for expansion to Australia, Kenya, China, and the UK. The wines are also available in select outlets, restaurants, and wine festivals.
To connect directly with Sonia, visit the brand’s social media, arrange a private tasting, or reach out via the website. Watsonia Wine offers a premium selection, combining quality, heritage, and passion in every bottle, ensuring a memorable experience for every customer.