In today’s market where aged whiskies and Cognacs fetch staggering sums, Cape Brandy is quietly asserting itself as South Africa’s hidden gem in the realm of collectible spirits. It’s not just a nod to heritage—it’s poised to be a serious commodity.
What sets Cape Brandy apart is its strict adherence to traditional potstill methods, combined with the exceptional quality of South African grapes. Crafted from varietals such as Chenin Blanc, Colombar, and Cinsaut, grapes that also produce fine South African wines.
In September 2017, a 40‑year‑old Cape Potstill Brandy from Van Ryn’s Distillery sold for R 60,000 (~US $3,500) at a Nederburg charity auction—a record price that underlines the value of ultra-aged Cape Brandy.
The collectibility of Cape Brandy lies not only in its scarcity and aging potential, but also in its increasing recognition on the global stage. Brands like Boschendal, Boplaas, Tokara, and Voorkamer have garnered top international awards, outshining even the most established Cognacs in blind tastings. These accolades, coupled with limited single-barrel and vintage releases, position Cape Brandy as a smart investment for collectors — particularly those seeking underappreciated gems before the global market catches on.
As wine collectors begin to explore spirits that share the same provenance and vinous DNA, Cape Brandy offers a rare opportunity: to own and experience a product that is uniquely South African, undeniably premium, and still attainable, for now. In the world of aged luxury, it may well be the Cape’s next great treasure.
Auction Results: Demonstrating Value
- In September 2017, a 40‑year‑old potstill brandy from Van Ryn’s Distillery sold for R 60,000 (~US $3,500) at a Nederburg charity auction—a record price that underlines the value of ultra-aged Cape Brandy.
https://iol.co.za/business-report/companies/2017-09-18-rare-south-african-brandy-sells-for-r60-000-at-nederburg-charity-auction/ - Earlier, in 2016, a 42‑year‑old single‑cask Van Ryn’s fetched R 40,000 (~US $3,000), further proving that mature Cape Brandy can command auction-level pricing.
https://iol.co.za/business-report/economy/2016-10-01-42-year-old-brandy-goes-for-r40-000/ - In late 2024, a curated six-bottle collection of rare single-cask potstill brandies (including 14‑ to 25‑year‑olds) surpassed R 11,725—illustrating strong demand even for younger aged expressions.
https://www.straussart.co.za/auctions/lot/346-18-nov-2024/
Brandy and fortified wine lots at KWV’s May 2025 auction hit R 427,300 in total, with standout items like a 1930 Muscadel achieved R 17,000, showcasing collective interest in aged Cape spirits.
Future Outlook: A Market on the Rise
Just as rare whisky casks have sold for over £1 million e.g., Macallan the collector market for aged spirits is soaring. Cape Brandy, by comparison, remains undervalued but ripe for discovery. Taste and value projections from auction houses like Strauss & Co suggest Cape Fine Brandy offers “exceptional value and investment potential”, with bespoke casks (20+ year-old) appealing to both trade and private collectors.
As Gen z and millennial investors diversify into alternative assets with provenance such as watches, art or rare whisky, Cape Brandy offers a unique, story-rich opportunity: locally sourced, sustainably produced, and limited in supply.
Cape Brandy is entering a new era, not just as a spirit to sip, but as a collectible asset. With proven auction prices reaching tens of thousands of rands and global spirits markets showing sustained appetite for rare, terroir-rich spirits, Cape Brandy stands uniquely positioned. For collectors, investors, and enthusiasts alike, this is a category primed for discovery—and its time is now.