Frogitt & Vonkel: Exclusive Wine Merchants, Plus A Wine Bar On Bree

[CLOSED PERMANENTLY] There are 30 wines available by the glass

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Your go-to classy bar for lunchtime and after-work shindig is perched above the vibey Bree Street in a 220 year-old heritage building, with original exposed brick and yellow wood floors.

The Frogitt & Vonkel Private Wine Merchants doubles as a classy and cosy wine bar. The bar features a constantly changing selection of the country’s best boutique and limited-production wines, as well as a range of international superstars – all available by the glass, of course.

WINE FLOWS IN THE FAMILY

While you sip, pass the time playing pool or darts, or even a game of Cards Against Humanity. “The bar is an extension of the brand,” says co-owner John Woodward, who runs the establishment with his wife, Clare.

It all began in the 1970s when David Woodward, John’s father, began selling German and French estate wines through private samplings in the United Kingdom. In 1977, he took the concept to the United States and then back to England in 1988, where the family business continued.

John and Clare launched in 2005 when they moved from the United Kingdom to South Africa and saw the potential in the market to open the Frogitt & Vonkel Private Wine Merchants.

FROM LOCAL TO RARE DELIGHTS

“We take wine selection seriously at F&V,” says Woodward. But the seriousness stops there: “People are equally comfortable in slops as they are in a suit and tie here.” 

The vibe is fun and cheerful, and once the after-dinner crowd arrives, the music goes up (they’re licensed until 2am). Hang out at the long wine bar, at one of the green banquettes, or the pool table while you enjoy your choice of around 30 wines.

The menu is broken into sections like “no skin contact” (white wines) and “bubbly bitches” to “exotic, erotic” (you guessed it, imported delights). Some highlights include the Hogan Habibti Chenin Blanc and the Blue Crane Pinot Noir Rose 2018. And if you’re keen to splash out, the G. 2014 ’67 Imizuzu’ goes for R7 200 a bottle or R1 810 a glass. Around 5 000 bottles are produced annually, so it’s a hit with collectors.

THEY’RE ALL ABOUT EXCLUSIVITY

Because of their relationship with boutique estates and specialised small growers, the biggest benefit of choosing Frogitt & Vonkel(F&V) is their exclusivity; you will not be able to buy the wines they offer anywhere else. All of their wines can be ordered at the bar for home delivery, and a range of wine accessories and gifts are also available for purchase.

THERE’S ALSO BEER AND GIN

If you want something different, the bar also serves craft beers, spirits, craft gins, local vodka, rum and brandy. Pair your drinks with a cheese and charcuterie board or one of their selection of bar snacks. For a more substantial dining experience, chef Matt Manning’s Grub & Vine is situated within the same building.

HOST YOUR PARTY AT FROGITT & VONKEL

The tasting centre upstairs is available for private events and function hire. With its own full-service bar and seating for around 40 people, it is an ideal venue for parties, product launches, corporate meetings and networking events.

By Daryn Wood

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Frogitt & Vonkel: They have live music Mondays and eventful First Thurdays.

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