Van Ryn’s 15-Year-Old Brandy Wins World’s Best Wine Brandy Award
A toast to excellence and tradition
Van Ryn’s, a local producer of exceptional brandies, has proudly clinched the title of World’s Best Wine Brandy at the prestigious 2023 World Brandy Awards held in London. This remarkable achievement marks their second consecutive win, following the previous year’s victory with their 20-year-old potstill brandy.
What makes a winner?
Presented by TheDrinksReport.com, the World Brandy Awards attracts top-quality entries from around the globe, serving as a platform to recognize and promote the finest spirits to consumers and trade worldwide. Each entry undergoes a rigorous blind tasting and evaluation process, assessing aspects such as aroma, palate, finish, balance, character, complexity, and overall quality.
The panel of esteemed international judges were captivated by Van Ryn’s 15-year-old potstill brandy, describing it as “a symphony of aromas, complex, well-balanced, and elegant—an exceptional sensory experience.” Marlene Bester, the master blender, expressed her delight, stating that this recognition is the pinnacle of her career.
Bester shared, “Achieving the title of world’s best is the highest honor for any master blender, and to win it two years in a row is an incredible achievement. We remain dedicated to innovation, uncompromising quality, and the art of crafting exceptional brandies. Following in the footsteps of South Africa’s pioneering brandy masters, who received our first international award back in 1884, we are proud to establish ourselves as one of the world’s leading fine brandy producers.”
The Van Ryn’s 15-year-old brandy offers an enticing blend of fragrances, featuring hints of cigar box, orange peel, and balanced oak. With notes of dark chocolate, warm spice, integrated oak, and fruit, it culminates in a creamy and intricate finish. Savor it neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for refreshing and innovative cocktails.
Among the finalists in the World’s Best Wine Brandy category were other notable brands, such as Van Ryn’s 20-Year-Old Potstill Brandy, KWV’s range of brandies, Beehive XO from France, Hector Legrant 15-Year-Old from France, Ironroot Republic Sleight of Hand Sister City Blend from the United States, and more.
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Visit Van Ryn's Distillery in Stellenbosch
For a truly immersive experience, enthusiasts can visit the Van Ryn’s Distillery in Stellenbosch, an enchanting setting adorned with atmospheric Provencal-style buildings. The distillery welcomes visitors for brandy tastings, tantalizing brandy cocktails, special events, and evenings with live music sessions, providing an unforgettable journey into the world of fine brandies. To learn more, visit their website or make event and tasting bookings through their dedicated platform.
Van Ryn’s award-winning range of brandies is available for purchase on their online store and through select fine liquor outlets nationwide. Indulge in the artistry and craftsmanship of Van Ryn’s, and experience the essence of unparalleled quality and taste in every sip. Raise your glass and celebrate their well-deserved achievement as the World’s Best Wine Brandy.
