In a remarkable display of unparalleled excellence, Van Ryn’s brandies have once again claimed the prestigious title of World’s Best Brandy Trophy, solidifying their position at the pinnacle of the global brandy industry. This remarkable achievement marks the second time in just four months that the Van Ryn’s brand has received this prestigious accolade. This time, it is the exquisite Van Ryn’s 12-year-old potstill brandy that has been honored with the World’s Best Brandy Trophy in the category for brandies aged 11 years and older. The announcement was made at the highly esteemed 2023 International Spirits Challenge held in London.
The International Spirits Challenge stands as a definitive and distinguished platform within the spirits industry, where brandies from across the globe undergo rigorous blind tastings led by a panel of the industry’s most renowned and influential experts.
In an earlier triumph this year, Van Ryn’s 15-year-old potstill brandy secured the title of World’s Best Wine Brandy at the 2023 World Brandy Awards, also held in London. This victory saw Van Ryn’s surpassing formidable competition from esteemed brandy producers in France, the United States, Australia, and South Africa.
Crafted with precision at the Van Ryn’s Distillery in Stellenbosch, the range of Van Ryn’s brandies adheres strictly to the traditional French Cognac-making process. Created from wine grapes and double distilled in copper potstills, these brandies are aged in oak barrels without the addition of any flavors or preservatives. The adherence to French legislation ensures that no brandy produced outside of the Cognac region can be named as such.
Marlene Bester, the master blender at Van Ryn’s, emphasizes that while the production methods mirror Cognac, Van Ryn’s brandies possess a distinct South African signature taste.
“The warm South African climate imbues our brandies with a fruity character, balanced acidity, and complexity—like sunshine in a bottle! Our brandies epitomize smoothness, refinement, and a lingering essence, establishing us as one of the world’s leading fine brandy houses.”
“Achieving two World’s Best titles in a single year is an extraordinary honor. Fine brandy demands time and patience, and we feel immensely privileged to have our brandies consistently recognized, underscoring our longstanding commitment to craft world-class, proudly South African brandy.”
The Van Ryn’s 12-Year-Old Potstill Brandy, a masterpiece of craftsmanship, captivates the senses with its enticing aromas of dried fruit, red berries, vanilla, cinnamon, and sweet tobacco. Subtle notes of coffee spice and delicate oak pave the way to a lingering, elegant finish.
For an immersive brandy-tasting experience, enthusiasts can visit the Van Ryn’s Distillery in Stellenbosch, an atmospheric venue characterized by its charming Provencal-style buildings. Visitors can savor brandy tastings, delightful brandy cocktails, partake in special events, and enjoy sundowners accompanied by live music sessions. For more information and to book tastings, one can visit Van Ryn’s online.
The award-winning range of Van Ryn’s products is available for purchase through their online store and select fine liquor outlets nationwide. Van Ryn’s brandies, a testament to passion, tradition, and excellence, invite you to savor the finest flavors from the heart of South Africa. Cheers to exceptional brandy and the pursuit of perfection!