Boks’ Brandy Gets High Praise: What You Need to Know

Avante Cape Brandy is making waves in South Africa’s spirits industry with its Founder’s XV receiving a coveted 5-star rating in the 45th-anniversary edition of the Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide. This marks a significant achievement for the recently launched 15-year-old expression which debuted in the South African market earlier this year.

The Platter’s Guide, established in 1980, is one of South Africa’s longest-running and most respected authorities on wines and brandies. Known for its rigorous selection process and ratings, a 5-star listing signals exceptional quality on par with international benchmarks. The Guide has featured brandy since its 2014 edition. This year, the Founder’s XV joins a select group of 15 South African brandies to receive this distinction, reinforcing the premium status of Cape Brandy on the global stage. The brandy scored 95 out of 100.

Created without chill filtration, a rarity in brandy production, the Founder’s XV offers a rich and untainted tasting experience. This method, common in premium whiskies, preserves essential oils and congeners, adding to the depth and mouthfeel of the spirit. The result is a bold and refined profile with notes of ripe peaches, apricots, and honey, balanced by subtle citrus and spiced vanilla. 

The Founder’s XV is a tribute to South Africa’s rich rugby heritage. Co-founded by 15 iconic rugby legends, including the likes of John Smit, Butch James, Makazole Mapimpi and Lukhanyo Am, the brandy spells resilience, excellence, and the pursuit of greatness—qualities shared by both rugby and premium spirits. 

Rob Heyns, Managing Director of Avante Cape Brandy, says: “The Founder’s XV represents triumph and tradition. It’s a testament to the excellence of Cape Brandy and a celebration of South Africa’s capacity to deliver world-class products. This recognition from Platter’s Guide affirms our mission to elevate the perception of Cape Brandy globally.” 

The acclaim doesn’t stop with the Founder’s XV. Avante Cape Brandy’s unpretentious VS received a respectable 4-star rating, while the VSOP was awarded 4.5 stars.

The Founder’s XV, priced at R1,595 per 750ml bottle, is exclusive to Norman Goodfellows and online via the official website.  The VS and VSOP can be found at leading liquor outlets nationwide.