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Many people have been on a wine tour, and they are great, but what about something a bit different? Why not choose to explore the long history of brandy distillation in South Africa, and enjoy some of the finest brandies in the world.
Brandy was first distilled in South Africa in 1672 when the Dutch arrived in the Cape. However it wasn’t of a great standard, and only later would it become a refined process. It was a man by the name of René Santhagens who set up a distillery in Stellenbosch in 1910 and produced a brandy called Oude Molen. Many other Cape distillers followed models established by René, and soon the brandy industry grew.
Further away in the Klein Karoo, brandy distillation came as a life-saver when in 1913 the prices of ostrich feathers plummeted. Farmers had to find another way to make money and began distilling ‘witblits’, an undiluted brandy which doesn’t undergo any oak maturation.
Today the Western Cape is home to a number of different brandy distillers all making world-class brandies. Visitors can go on a leisurely journey through the brandy heartland along Route 62, which runs between Robertson and Oudsthoorn.
The rugged hinterland is filled with country charm and character, and offers the perfect setting in which to enjoy winding down and sipping a brandy. Take your time as you enjoy the attention and skill used to make one of South Africa’s favourite spirits. The people in this area tend to be very welcoming and stories come quickly over a glass of brandy.
Barrydale Cellar - Barrydale
This award-winning cellar is a must stop for brandy and cognac lovers, and is considered by many as one of South Africa's top pot-still brandy producers. The 10-year-old Joseph Barry Cape Pot Still Brandy took a number of awards including the trophy for the top brandy in the world at the IWSC.
Visit the cellar from Monday to Friday between 09:00 and17:00, and Saturdays and public holidays between 09h00 and 15h00. For more information about the cellar and to book a visit to the brandy distillery call 028 572 1012.
Boplaas - Calitzdorp
The Boplaas Family Vineyards have a long and illustrious heritage in the production of fine brandy. Enjoy the exclusive Boplaas 8-Year Old Potstill Brandy and the ever popular Carel Nel Reserve Brandy. Boplaas was the first cellar to release an estate brandy when legislation changed in 1994.
Enjoy a variety of tastings with wine, port and brandy on offer. Boplaas is open from 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, and 09:00 to 15:00 on Saturdays. Tours of the distillery need to be booked ahead of time and can be arranged by calling 044 213 3326.
Klipdrift Distillery - Robertson
Visit the Klipdrift distillery to enjoy one of South Africa’s most popular brandies. Join an informative tasting and enjoy some good, old-fashioned South African hospitality. Explore the history of this popular brandy and then afterwards head into "Die Brandewyntuin" where you can enjoy a hearty homemade meal.
The distillery is open from 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, and 09:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays and public holidays. For more information call 023 626 3027.
Grundheim– Oudtshoorn
Just outside of Oudtshoorn is the Grundheim estate where the Grundling family have been farming for over 100 years. The farm is well known for their witblits, which they produce in a traditional brandy still. In 2002 they launched their own potstill brandy, and have since walked away with a number of awards.
Enjoy a warm and friendly atmosphere at the Grundheim farm. The farm is open from 08:00 to17:00 on weekdays, and 09:00 to 13:00 Saturdays. For more information call 044 272 6927.
Mons Ruber - Oudtshoorn
Situated in the scenic stretch of road between Oudtshoorn and De Rust is Mons Ruber. The estate began making wine in 1850, and began distilling brandy over an open fire in 1936. Mons Ruber produces an estate brandy in a pot still that is quite characteristic of the area. The still is located next to: a water furrow for cooling, an orange tree for flavour, a fig tree to tell when distillation should start (when the figs ripen the brandy is ready), and a willow tree for shade.
Visits to the estate can take place from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 13:00 on Saturday. For more information call 044 251 6550.
