Gin
If there’s one drink that’s had the ladies of Mzansi in a chokehold these past few years, it’s definitely gin. From bottomless brunches to sunset vibes, gin has become the go-to dop for women who love their drink stylish, refreshing, and full of flava. And with all the colours, mixers, and garnishes? It’s not just a drink, it’s a whole aesthetic.
The Rise of the Queens
Gin has gone from being something your ouma might have sipped on to being the trendiest drink in SA’s nightlife and lifestyle circles, especially among women. What started as a classic British spirit got a full-on South African glow-up—now it’s pink, purple, blue, infused with hibiscus or rooibos, and served in glasses so big they need their own table.
Why the love? Simple:
- It’s light but still has a kick.
- It looks stunning (hello Instagram).
- You can personalise it with fruit, herbs, and fancy mixers.
- And it’s got that soft life vibe that women are living for.
Ladies Making This Drink Their Own
Gin isn’t just being sipped by women—it’s being shaped by them too. More and more female gin enthusiasts, mixologists, and even distillers are owning the space, crafting spirits that reflect local taste and style.
- Proudly South African flavours like marula, rooibos, naartjie, and fynbos are becoming the base of unique gins made by women, for women.
- Local brands are working with women in marketing, design, and distilling—because let’s face it, gents didn’t create this vibe.
And it’s not just a city thing—stoko from Limpopo to Langa are bringing gin into their events, stokvels, and even lobola celebrations.
The Pink Gin Movement
Pink gin isn’t just a drink—it’s a whole vibe. It’s light, usually flavoured with strawberries, raspberries, or rose petals, and served with tonic or lemonade, fresh fruit, and a whole lotta class.
And don’t get it twisted—just because it’s pink doesn’t mean it’s weak. The girls that sip gin? They know how to handle their business.
Gin Moments – SA Style
Gin pairs with moments like suster with gossip—perfectly. Here’s where you’ll find women enjoying their favourite G&T:
- Brunch & Day Events
Bottomless gin menus and rooftop lounges are her thing. - Girls’ Nights
Group chats are full of gin recipes, from cucumber to cranberry. - Self-love Nights
Gin, bath bombs, scented candles, and the TV series – Adulting? Yes please. - Chill Vibes
Whether it’s a picnic in the park or just chilling in the garden, a cold one hits every time.
Gins the Ladies Love
Some top picks for Mzansi’s queens:
- Belgravia
This proudly South African drink is a staple for classy sippers. The Amber, Verdant and Classic variants give options for every vibe. - Whitley Neill
Known for their colourful flavours like Blood Orange and Rhubarb & Ginger. It’s giving flavour and finesse. - Six Dogs
Local, luxe, and infused with wild botanicals—perfect for the soft life hun.
The Mixers – The Flava is in the Combo
South African women are not playing when it comes to gin mixes. It’s not just “gin and tonic”—it’s the combination of the following:
- Grapefruit & rosemary
- Cucumber & mint
- Naartjie & thyme
- Berries & lemonade
- Hibiscus tonic with edible glitter (yes, we shine inside and out)
Types Of Gin
| Type of Gin | Description | Flavor Profile | Typical ABV (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| London Dry | The most common style; must be predominantly juniper and no artificial flavors. | Dry, crisp, with strong juniper and citrus notes. | 40–47% |
| Plymouth | A geographically protected style, only produced in Plymouth, England. | Earthier and slightly sweeter than London Dry. | 41.2% |
| Old Tom | A sweeter style that predates London Dry; used in classic cocktails. | Sweet, rich, and botanical with less juniper dominance. | 35–45% |
| Genever (Jenever) | The original style from the Netherlands and Belgium; maltier due to grain base. | Malty, herbal, slightly sweet; juniper is milder. | 30–40% |
| New Western (New American) | Modern gins that reduce juniper prominence in favor of other botanicals. | Floral, citrusy, herbal — less emphasis on juniper. | 40–47% |
| Sloe | A liqueur made by infusing gin with sloe berries and sugar. | Sweet, fruity, plum-like with a tart edge. | 20–30% |
| Navy Strength | Higher proof gin (usually ~57% ABV), originally made for naval storage. | Bold, intense botanical flavors; strong alcohol presence. | 57% |
| Flavored | Gins infused with additional flavors like fruit, spices, or herbs. | Varies widely — often sweeter and more aromatic. | 30–45% |
Alcohol is not for persons under the age of 18!