As our palates developed and we learnt the difference between a ‘Cab Sav’ and Sauvignon Blanc (don’t judge), we developed an appreciation for the art of winemaking….and beyond. This opened up a world of new horizons – and eventually it was the beauty of distilling that completely hooked us.

We’ve put in the blood, sweat and tears, jumped through hoops and went through all the motions to obtain relevant qualifications and gain invaluable experience in viticulture and distilling – both nationally and internationally. But it is the collective esteem for this craft that have dictated our very hands-on approach throughout the entire process. From foraging and picking the ingredients by hand, to carefully overseeing each step of the production and post-production process, and, alas, tasting, tasting, tasting.

And so our venture into distilling took flight, with our father’s dream being kept alive as we aptly named the distillery 9 Orphans. Now, from our rad new location amongst vineyards, on one of Stellenbosch’s oldest Wine Estates, we raise a glass (albeit gin) and salute him.