Rising above the everyday next to the pristine Grootwinterhoek Wilderness Area, you’ll find Tygerkloof Distillery—makers of small-batch Ginsmith Gin: spirits with a big sense of place.
Each of the four gold medal–winning gins captures the rugged elegance of this extraordinary landscape in liquid form. And each has its own distinct personality.
Bold and commanding, juniper-forward NAVY is a classic with backbone. It pairs well with robust, savoury flavours: cured meats, charcuterie, mature cheeses, olives and rosemary-infused dishes. Playful and aromatic PINK blushes with ruby grapefruit charm and loves contrast: fresh berries, citrus, soft goat’s cheese, curries, smoked salmon or spicy tapas. THE STEPCHILD, a pronounced fynbos gin, is unconventional and slightly rebellious. Enjoy it alongside grilled vegetables, Middle Eastern–inspired dishes, herb-laced flatbreads or tapas with chilli, cumin or coriander. Finally, the coup de grace: barrel-aged sipping gin SYNERGY. It’s just perfect with dessert or chocolate.
A visit to Tygerkloof Distillery is quite an experience. Gin tastings paired with tapas invite you to sip thoughtfully, savouring flavours that echo the land around you. Meet the makers, Colleen and Lesley, and discover how passion, precision and place come together in every bottle.
The journey alone is half the seduction. As the road climbs, the views unfurl dramatically from Table Mountain all the way to the shimmer of St Helena Bay.
Buy at the Olive Boutique in Riebeek-Kasteel; Book your tasting: lesley@ginsmith.co.za; 083 9466050.
Photos: Jacques Marais for Bergrivier Tourism.
