Modern in appearance, with a legacy steeped in South African brandy history, the quietly unassuming Oude Molen Distillery will leave you with new perspectives and an unrivaled sense of peace.

The story of Oude Molen brandy in South Africa is one of discovery, perseverance and dedication. It is a story that traces its beginning back to the early 1900’s, and one of the pioneering forefathers of brandy on the African continent. It is the story of René Santhagens, and is a colourful tale of opportunities grabbed with open arms, risks taken with vigour, and a life lived to its fullest.

Today, the Oude Molen brandy distillery is a fitting shrine and memory to the life, and extraordinary skill of the man commonly known as “Father” of South African Brandy. Recently renovated to adequately host the influx of visitors a global renewal of brandy interest has brought, a visit to the distillery, and tour of the cellar, is nothing short of a grandiose affair, and one René could only be most proud of.

The tranquil energy of the distillery touches you the minute you pass through the front gate, a gleaming white main house, flanked by the lushest of green grass lawns, and splattered with explosions of colour from the perfectly manicured flower beds. Entering through the front doors of the distillery, the calming experience continues, as the massive reception lounge entices you to step back in time and truly discover Rene’s world.