Van Ryn’s 15-year-old single potstill brandy has been named World’s Best Wine Brandy for the second consecutive year at the prestigious 2023 World Brandy Awards. The locally produced potstill brandy went head-to-head with numerous global and fellow local brandy producers and secured first place.
The awards are held by TheDrinksReport.com and shine a spotlight on the finest brandies from across the globe. Each brandy sample is blind taste tested by a panel of judges and scored based on the nose, palate, finish, balance, character, complexity and general quality.
Judges of the awards commended Van Ryn’s 15-year-old potstill brandy, sharing that “a symphony of aromas unfold. It’s very complex and also well balanced between the scents. Big and powerful but still elegant.”
Van Ryn Brandies is housed under the South African giant Distell.
Marlene Bester, Distillery Manager of Van Ryn Brandies, comments on the local brand receiving the global accolade.
“Brandies are appealing to a new generation who embrace authenticity, gravitate towards products with a story to tell, and migrate to those that have the credentials. These World’s Best accolades achieved over the past four years segment our commitment to innovation, quality and the art of crafting exceptional brandy, building on our reputation as one of the world’s leading fine brandy houses.”
The award-winning potstill brandy
The 15-year-old single potstill brandy that has been aged in small French oak barrels can be described as fragrant with notes of cigar box, orange peel and balanced oak.
It also features notes of dark chocolate, warm spice, integrated oak and fruit, to craft a masterfully creamy and complex brandy.
The multi-faceted brandy can be enjoyed on the rocks or as a base for a range of cocktails. The award-winning brandy retails for R950 per bottle.
What is the difference between brandy and potstill brandy?
The difference between the two is the maturation; compared to brandy, potstill brandy is matured over a longer period, usually 10 years.
Find out more about the differences between cognac and South African brandy here.