Bezalel Rooibos Brandy

Bezalel Rooibos Potstill Brandy – Tradition Reimagined

The Original Rooibos Wooded Potstill Brandy is a true South African first — the world's first brandy aged with wood from the indigenous rooibos bush. Double-distilled in small batches and matured for a minimum of 5 years in French oak barrels, it is then gently wooded with natural rooibos wood sustainably sourced from the Northern Cape. The result is a smooth, complex spirit that marries classic potstill craftsmanship with the earthy, herbal soul of rooibos.

Crafted at Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate in the heart of South Africa's Green Kalahari — where the rooibos plant thrives under an open sky — this brandy carries the character of its landscape in every sip.

A World First, Born in the Kalahari

No other brandy in the world is finished with rooibos wood. When Bezalel first pioneered this process, the idea was simple: take two of South Africa's most iconic gifts — potstill brandy and rooibos — and bring them together in a single bottle. What emerged was a spirit unlike anything else: recognisably South African in character, unmistakably unique in flavour, and entirely impossible to replicate anywhere else on earth.

Patience. Craft. Innovation.

South African law requires potstill brandy to be aged for a minimum of 3 years. The Rooibos Brandy exceeds this, maturing for at least 5 years in small French oak barrels before the rooibos wood infusion adds its final, signature layer of character. This unhurried approach — rooted in over 80 years of family winemaking tradition at Bezalel — is what separates a truly exceptional spirit from an ordinary one.

What is rooibos wood?

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is a fynbos plant native to the Cederberg mountains of the Western Cape — the same plant used to make South Africa's beloved rooibos tea. Its wood imparts subtle herbal, earthy, and slightly sweet notes that complement the caramel and orange character of the brandy without overwhelming it. The infusion is delicate by design: a whisper of rooibos, not a shout.

• Nose: Bold opening of caramel and intense orange peel, followed by subtle earthy rooibos notes as the spirit breathes.
• Palate: Layers of dark chocolate, charred orange, gentle smoky spice, and the signature rooibos tea character — rich yet balanced.
• Finish: Smooth, lingering rooibos finish that rounds off elegantly — clean, memorable, distinctly South African.

38% ABV | 500 ml bottle — perfect for sipping neat or mixing.

This versatile spirit shines in many ways:

• Neat or on the rocks — Pour into a large snifter or tumbler over a large ice cube to appreciate the full depth of caramel, orange, and rooibos.
• Refreshed summer serve — Dilute 50/50 with sparkling water, soda, or lemonade over plenty of ice for a light, refreshing drink that highlights the rooibos finish.
• Cocktail ideas:
  • Rooibos Old Fashioned: 50 ml brandy, dash of bitters, sugar cube, orange twist.
  • Rooibos Brandy Sour: 40 ml brandy, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white.
  • Rooibos Highball: 40 ml brandy, ginger ale, lime wedge.

The rooibos-infused profile pairs beautifully with:

• Dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) — enhances the chocolate and orange notes.
• Biltong or droëwors — the smokiness complements South African dried meats.
• Braai/grilled meats — works with lamb chops, boerewors, or steak.
• Cheese platters — aged cheddar or blue cheese for contrast.

Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate, located on the N14 Highway between Upington and Keimoes in the Northern Cape's Green Kalahari region, has been family-owned since 1943. Our potstill brandy is double-distilled in traditional copper stills, matured in small French oak barrels, and infused with sustainably sourced rooibos wood from the Cederberg mountains. This process creates a spirit that is proudly South African — blending Cape brandy tradition with indigenous rooibos innovation.

Is Bezalel Rooibos Brandy gluten-free?
Yes — distilled spirits like potstill brandy are naturally gluten-free.

How should I store it?
Keep upright in a cool, dark place. Once opened, consume within 1–2 years for best flavor.

Is it suitable as a gift?
Absolutely — the unique rooibos infusion and elegant bottle make it a standout South African gift.

What is the ABV and bottle size?
38% alcohol by volume, 500 ml bottle.