Klipdrift Export: South Africa’s Favourite Brandy

A braai without Klippies is like pap without gravy – something just feels off. For decades, Klipdrift Export has been the go-to brandy for South Africans, from the suburbs to the kasi. Whether it’s uncles in the township polishing their glasses while debating soccer scores, or students mixing a quick Klippies & Coke before heading out, this amber spirit has secured its place as more than just a drink – it’s a national icon.

Table Of Contents
  1. A Bit of History
  2. Township Uncles and the “Klippies” Culture
  3. How It’s Made
  4. Alcohol Percentage
  5. Tasting Notes
  6. Best Served With
  7. Where to Buy in South Africa
  8. Target Market
  9. FAQs
Klipdrift Export

A Bit of History

The Klipdrift story started in 1938, in Robertson, Western Cape, when JP Marais distilled the first batch. South Africa already had a strong wine culture, so brandy became the natural next step. Over the years, Klipdrift grew from a small-town favourite into a household name. Today, Export remains the flagship – smooth, reliable, and proudly South African.

Township Uncles and the “Klippies” Culture

If you’ve ever chilled in the township, you’ll know uncles and Klipdrift are inseparable. These are the same gents who pull up their camp chairs outside the yard on a Sunday afternoon, blasting old-school Brenda Fassie or Maskandi, with a 750ml Klippies on the table.

For them, Klipdrift isn’t just a drink – it’s a tradition. They sip it slow, tell long stories about “back in the day,” and pass on life lessons over each glass. Township uncles see Klippies as a companion: affordable, dependable, and always ready to spark conversation.

How It’s Made

Klipdrift Export is crafted using grapes from the Cape winelands. The process includes:

  • Fermentation of fine wines
  • Double distillation in copper pot stills
  • Maturation for at least 3 years in French oak casks

This is what gives it that smooth, approachable taste that South Africans love.

Alcohol Percentage

Klipdrift Export packs a punch at 43% ABV – strong enough to warm you up, but smooth enough to enjoy with a mixer.

Tasting Notes

  • Colour: Golden amber, warm and inviting
  • Nose: Fruity sweetness with a touch of oak and caramel
  • Palate: Smooth and mellow, with vanilla, dried fruit, and a light nuttiness
  • Finish: Medium, soft, and rounded – perfect for casual sipping

Best Served With

There’s no wrong way to enjoy Klippies, but here are the local favourites:

  • Neat or on the rocks – how the uncles in the township prefer it
  • Klippies & Coke – the most famous combo in Mzansi
  • With ginger ale – a refreshing twist that balances sweetness
  • In cocktails – think brandy sours or spiked coffee

Where to Buy in South Africa

Klipdrift Export is available almost everywhere:

  • TOPS at Spar
  • Checkers LiquorShop
  • Pick n Pay Liquor
  • Makro Liquor

Online Availability & Price

You can grab a bottle online from:

  • Takealot
  • Makro Online
  • Pick n Pay Online

Expect to pay around R160 – R200 for a 750ml bottle.

Target Market

From kasi uncles to varsity students, Klipdrift Export speaks to everyone. It’s affordable, versatile, and proudly South African. Unlike premium brandies, Klippies isn’t about luxury – it’s about community, friendship, and good times.

FAQs

1. Is Klipdrift Export considered premium?
No, it’s more of an everyday brandy – smooth, reliable, and affordable.

2. How is it different from Klipdrift Premium?
Premium is aged longer and has richer flavours. Export is lighter, more versatile, and perfect for mixing.

3. Why is Klipdrift so popular in townships?
It’s affordable, smooth, and part of the culture. Township uncles, in particular, trust Klippies as their drink of choice.

4. Where is Klipdrift made?
It’s distilled and matured at the Klipdrift Distillery in Robertson, Western Cape.

Scroll to Top