Monique Coetzee (née De Villiers), winemaker at Boland Cellar in Paarl, passed away on Friday 1 December 2023. She was only 32 years old.
Born in 1991, Monique studied viticulture and oenology at Stellenbosch University. She began her journey in the wine industry at Delheim Wine Estate and Nederburg. She joined Boland Cellar as assistant winemaker in 2018. She was promoted to winemaker subsequently.
"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beloved winemaker, Monique Coetsee," Boland Cellar posted on Facebook.
"Her passion, dedication, and incredible talent have left an indelible mark on Boland Cellar and the entire winemaking community. Monique was not just a winemaker; she was a visionary, an artist crafting stories in every bottle. Beyond her immense talent, Monique was a kind soul, a supportive colleague, and a dear friend to many. Her warmth, wisdom, and infectious enthusiasm will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her."
In addition to being a passionate winemaker, Monique was also an artist. Her favourite medium was watercolours.
Monique formed part of the Women in Wine initiative initiated by the Drakenstein Local Tourism Association and she participated in their promotional activities.
A memorial service will be held at Strooidak Church in Paarl on Monday 4 December at 10h30. The service will also be streamed online via this link: bit.ly/MoniqueDankdiens
Messages of condolences to Monique's family and friends
"Condolences to all her loved ones what a special lady she was always so loved by everyone fond memories we will all carry tucked away in our hearts." - Glynnis Coetsee
"Rus sag my liefste Monique! So dankbaar ons paaie het gekruis en alles wat ons kon deel die laaste 4 jaar. Jy los ‘n groot leemte in soveel mense se harte en ons gaan jou vreeslik baie mis. Gone too soon." - Alizanne van Zyl
"Gaan jou baie mis. Rus in vrede. Boland het nou 'n diamant verloor. Jy was altyd pragtig. Bid vir die bree familie." - Edwina Bastiaan
"Ons innige simpatie aan die familie. Monique was n baie besonderse mens en sy los n groot leemte in almal wat haar geken het se harte." - Colleen Riekert
"Rus sag Monique... Mag ons Hemelse Pappa al jou familie en vriende wat agter bly troos. Sjo maar jou tydjie op aarde was te kort." - Madri Burger
"The winemaker with the most beautiful smile. Rest in peace, special lady." - Anne Bullen Alessandri
"What an awesome inspirational individual, soul and winemaker. She will be missed by everyone." - Johan Winterbach
"Sjoe Monique was so talentvol. Mag sy verf in vrede met haar rooiwyn. Sy het n wynproe aangebied by ons Wellington VLV en ook haar kuns saamgebring." - Juanita Loubser
Should anyone wish to share their memories of Monique, please send them to editor@wine.co.za and we will add to this article.