Over the past decade, many South African celebrities have expanded their careers beyond music, television, and acting by launching their own alcohol brands. These ventures allow celebrities to build long-term businesses while leveraging their personal brands and large fan bases.
From sparkling wine to gin and cider, celebrity-owned alcohol brands have become increasingly popular in South Africa. Below is a guide to some of the most well-known alcohol brands owned or co-owned by South African celebrities.
1. House of BNG – Owned by Bonang Matheba
One of the most successful celebrity alcohol brands in South Africa is House of BNG, launched by Bonang Matheba in 2019.
The brand produces Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines, which are South Africa’s equivalent of champagne. The brand quickly became popular and even ranked among the top-selling MCC wines at major retailers like Woolworths.
House of BNG Products
- House of BNG Brut
- House of BNG Brut Rosé
- BNG Nectar
- BNG Nectar Rosé
These sparkling wines are often associated with luxury celebrations and high-profile events.
2. Billiato – Owned by Cassper Nyovest
South African rapper Cassper Nyovest entered the alcohol industry with Billiato, a premium alcoholic beverage.
The drink was developed with the vision of creating a long-term beverage brand that could eventually expand into other spirits like vodka and gin.
Billiato Highlights
- Premium alcoholic drink brand
- Developed with industry experts
- Designed to appeal to young urban consumers
The brand has quickly gained popularity among Cassper’s fans and the broader entertainment audience.
3. Boulevard Rosé – Owned by DJ Zinhle
DJ Zinhle is another celebrity who successfully entered the beverage industry.
She became the CEO of Boulevard Rosé, a sparkling wine brand that targets young professionals and fans of luxury lifestyle drinks.
Boulevard Rosé Features
- Sparkling rosé wine
- Stylish premium branding
- Popular at events and social gatherings
4. Controversy Gin – Owned by Kelly Khumalo
Singer Kelly Khumalo launched Controversy Gin, a premium gin infused with botanical ingredients.
The gin is produced locally and distilled multiple times to create a balanced flavour profile.
Controversy Gin Highlights
- Six-times distilled gin
- Infused with botanical ingredients
- Premium craft spirit
5. BT Signature – Owned by Boity Thulo
Boity Thulo launched BT Signature, a premium sparkling fruit beverage created with winemaker Matthew Krone.
The drink was designed as a sophisticated alcoholic beverage aimed at modern consumers.
BT Signature Products
- BT Signature Peach Frizzante
- BT Signature Nectar
The brand also offers non-alcoholic versions.
6. Black Rose Gin – Co-owned by Pearl Thusi
Actress Pearl Thusi acquired equity in Black Rose Gin, a premium gin brand distilled in South Africa.
The brand offers fruit-infused gin varieties such as blood orange and pomegranate.
Black Rose Gin Varieties
- Ruby Blood Orange
- Pink Pomegranate
- Satin Orange
7. 48 Gin – Owned by Thabo Molefe
T-Bo Touch launched 48 Gin, a premium gin designed to celebrate African excellence.
The brand focuses on high-quality ingredients and sophisticated branding aimed at the premium spirits market.
8. Makoya Bearing Cider – Owned by DJ Tira
DJ Tira also joined the celebrity alcohol trend by launching Makoya Bearing Cider.
The cider reportedly contains around 6% alcohol and was released during the summer season when cider demand is high.
Why Celebrities Are Launching Alcohol Brands
There are several reasons why celebrities are entering the alcohol industry:
1. Long-Term Business Opportunities
Alcohol brands can become global businesses with long-term revenue potential.
2. Strong Personal Branding
Celebrities already have loyal audiences, making marketing easier.
3. Growing Beverage Market
The global alcohol market is worth hundreds of billions of dollars.
The Rise of Celebrity Alcohol Brands in South Africa
South Africa has seen a significant rise in celebrity alcohol brands in recent years. Many stars are no longer just endorsing drinks but owning or investing in beverage companies.
This trend mirrors what has happened internationally, where celebrities like actors and musicians have turned alcohol brands into highly profitable businesses.
Final Thoughts
Celebrity-owned alcohol brands are becoming a major part of the South African beverage industry. From sparkling wine to gin and cider, stars are using their influence to create successful beverage businesses.
Brands like House of BNG, Billiato, and BT Signature show how celebrities are turning their fame into powerful business ventures.
As the industry grows, we can expect even more South African celebrities to launch their own alcohol brands.