It’s official, you can add brandy to the list of foodie things South Africa does well. Three local brandies have been selected in a blind tasting among almost 600 other international spirits at the 7th Annual New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC).

The judges were clearly impressed with what SA has to offer. Van Ryn’s distillery in Stellenbosch claimed the South Africa 12-Year Brandy of the Year award for their 12 Year Old Distillers Reserve. Its older sibling, the Van Ryn’s 15 Year Old Fine Cask Reserve took the honour as South Africa 15-Year Brandy of the Year.

Distell brought home gold with their Oude Meester 18 Year Old Souverein, much to the delight of Distell brandy ambassador Nick Holdcroft: ‘This mature potstill brandy has lingering flavours reminiscent of almonds, with nuances of ginger and chocolate following through onto a warm, mouth-filling palate.’

But let’s get into some detail. Read the tasting profiles of our winners below and show your local pride by buying a bottle that’s perfect for you or for a loved one, since it is officially the festive season!

Van Ryn’s 12 Year Old Distillers Reserve

Colour: Lustrous, deep golden amber
Nose: A complex range of ripe and dried fruits; with dark berries, plums and dried apricot; and spicy aromas of vanilla, cinnamon and sweet tobacco.
Taste: A great concentration of aromas and flavours that meld wonderfully together while retaining a fine balance. Oak aromas are well-balanced, with mature notes of strong dried fruit that develop into hints of coffee.
Finish: Elegant with a controlled power. A soft velvety palate of dried fruit and coffee ends on a lingering, lasting note.
Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed neat, with ice or a dash of water.
Price: R660

Van Ryn’s 15 Year Old Fine Cask Reserve

Colour: Rich, burnished gold
Nose: A remarkable citrus and honey character together with fragrant tones of cigar box.
Taste: Chocolate and liqueur meld with oak to create an unforgettable full flavoured brandy with a voluptuous mouthfeel.
Finish: Full and complex, rounded and creamy with an opulent density.
Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed neat, with ice or a dash of water.
Price: R1 160

Oude Meester 18 Year Old Souverein

Colour: Auburn amber
Nose: Intriguing and deeply complex with layers of ginger, mocha coffee, strawberry jam and vanilla.
Taste: Lingering flavours reminiscent of almonds, with nuances of ginger and chocolate following through onto a warm, mouth-filling palate.
Serving suggestion: Neat or with a little ice.
Price: R1 200