Craft distilleries in Johannesburg are more than just places to buy liquor. They are also cultural experiences that show how creative and diverse the area is. Here, we’ll explore five interesting craft distilleries in and around Johannesburg.
Time Anchor Distillery
You can find Time Anchor Distillery in the trendy area of Johannesburg called Maboneng. It’s a popular place for gin lovers. They make about 5,000 bottles of gin each year and are known for being very meticulous about how they make their gin and using local plants in new ways.
What they make:
- Classic London Dry Gin: This is a traditional gin that tastes clean and crisp. It’s good for making classic gin drinks.
- African Botanics Gin: This gin uses local plants. It has a complex taste and smells really delightful.
- Limited Edition Sloe Gin: They make this with sloe berries that are brought in from the UK. It tastes sweet and fruity.
The Noble Experiment Craft Distillery
The Noble Experiment is in Glenferness, AH, Midrand. It’s not just a place that makes gin – it’s also a place where you can learn about gin. They have something called Giniversity, where you can become a gin expert.
What they make:
- Elixir of Lion’s Tail: This is a special mix that tastes like herbs and spices.
- Rhubarb & Baobab Gin: This gin is refreshing. It mixes the sour taste of rhubarb with the unique taste of baobab fruit.
- African Dry: This is a classic gin, but with an African twist.
- Rice Vodka: This is a smooth, clean vodka made from rice.
Drayman’s Brewery & Distillery
Drayman’s is located in Pretoria and specialises in both craft beers and spirits. So, this place is fun for both people who like beer and people who like spirits.
What they make:
- Craft Beers: They’re known for making really good beers in many different styles.
- Gin: They make small amounts of gin with unique flavors.
Masau Craft Distillery
Masau is in a scenic area called Muldersdrift, near Johannesburg. They are unique because they make their drinks by hand and use old recipes. They focus on making drinks that taste authentically African.
What they make:
- African Spirits: They make drinks that taste like traditional African flavors.
Black Horse
Black Horse is in a charming place called Zeekoeihoek Valley, near Magaliesburg. It’s a great place to spend a whole day. They make craft beer and spirits, and they also have a restaurant that feels like you’re in the countryside.
What they make:
- Craft Beers and Spirits: They make a range of beers and spirits by hand.
Still 33
Still 33 is located in Barbeque Downs, Kyalami and is known for making small amounts of spirits that taste uniquely South African, using local ingredients, and being environmentally friendly.
What they make:
- Rooibos Gin: This gin tastes like rooibos tea, which is very South African.
- Citrus Spirits: They use local citrus fruits to make refreshing spirits.
Exploring these distilleries is a great way to experience a different side of Johannesburg and the surrounding areas. You’ll get to see both the city and the countryside, meet interesting people who are passionate about what they do, and taste flavors that are uniquely South African. It’s an adventure for your taste buds and a chance to learn about an important part of South African culture and industry.
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