KWV Brandy has once again put South Africa on the global luxury spirits map, winning Brandy Producer of the Year. They won this award at the prestigious 2025 International Spirits Challenge (ISC) in London.
KWV has now claimed the title for the seventh time, after winning in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2024.
A GREAT BRANDY
This cemented its position as one of the most consistently awarded brandy producers in the ISC’s 30-year history, according to Paarl Post.
The ISC is the world’s longest-running spirits competition, attracting entries from over 70 countries. Top producers in this arena highly seek recognition, yet fewer than 2% of entrants earn a Trophy.
KWV’s continued success underscores its mastery in the brandy category and its role as a global benchmark for South African craftsmanship.
KWV BRANDY AND INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS
This year’s accolades included the Trophy for Best Potstill Brandy (11 years and over) for the KWV XXO 20. This is an iconic luxury spirit matured for more than two decades in small oak casks, according to Hello Lifestyle.
Known for its deep amber hue, layered dried fruit notes and warming finish.
KWV XXO 20 retails locally for approximately R1,899 and is available at leading South African fine wine and spirits retailers and selected international distributors.
THE BRANDY PORTFOLIO
KWV also secured the Trophy for Potstill Grape Brandy up to 5 Years old for KWV VSOP, reaffirming the brand’s reach in global export markets.
In addition to these Trophies, KWV collected an impressive medal haul, with Double Golds for KWV 15 and KWV XO.
With Gold medals for every other expression in its portfolio, including KWV 3, KWV 5, KWV VS, KWV 10 and KWV 12. This across-the-board recognition confirms KWV’s consistent quality across all price points.
THE PREMIUM BRANDY FOOTPRINT
Master Distiller Pieter de Bod, who accepted the award alongside KWV CEO John Loomes, said: “Each award is a reminder that patience, craft and consistency matter.
South African brandy has earned its place among the most discerning palates in the world.”
Loomes added that KWV is committed to growing South Africa’s premium brandy footprint globally, while staying true to its heritage.
SPRIT CONSUMPTION
The achievement comes at a time when premium spirits consumption is rising across Africa, driven by urbanisation, higher incomes and younger demographics.
For South Africa, KWV’s win boosts national pride and highlights the country’s capacity to deliver world-class luxury products, strengthening the brandy’s profile both at home and abroad.
