The cellar index

BrandyCollection 10

South African Brandy

Cape wine grapes, copper stills and oak produce both blended and potstill traditions.

Origin & traditionCape winelands, South Africa

Character & context

Understanding South African Brandy

South African brandy draws on the Cape's wine-growing heritage. Potstill bottlings foreground characterful wine distillates and maturation, while blends can aim for a lighter profile. Chenin Blanc and Colombard are important reference grapes, though other varieties appear. Read the category and producer's information before comparing an age statement across unlike styles.

Further reading: South African Brandy Foundation

Read related observations