South Africa’s spirits scene is gaining a new, quietly confident voice: Breeze Premium Gin. Founded by 35-year-old Bongolethu Bizani, the gin’s journey from a personal ambition to market availability is a testament to perseverance and a dedication to crafting a genuinely smooth drinking experience.
Bizani’s initial inspiration stemmed from a common frustration – the often-harsh character of traditional gin. He sought to create a product that was both accessible and enjoyable, specifically targeting a smoother profile and minimizing the potential for unpleasant after-effects.
What began as a personal project – refining a gin recipe to eliminate the strong aromas and intense burn – quickly gained momentum. Following a social media notification of a locally produced gin winning an award in June 2023, Bizani re-evaluated his approach and connected with a local distiller. This led to a sample of Breeze Premium Gin, which Bizani meticulously adapted to his taste, incorporating natural herbs to achieve his desired flavour profile. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with the gin described as ‘accessible and enjoyable.’
Currently, Breeze Premium Gin is primarily distributed through social media channels and select outlets, including Discount Bottle Store in Alice. However, Bizani’s ambitions extend far beyond these initial channels. A key hurdle – securing a VAT certificate from SARS (South African Revenue Service) – requires demonstrating annual sales of R50,000. This signifies a necessary step towards wider commercial distribution.
Bizani’s commitment to responsible sales practices is paramount, with a clear focus on preventing sales to individuals under the legal drinking age. He operates with a meticulous understanding of liquor laws, reflecting a professional and conscientious approach.
Looking ahead, Bizani’s long-term vision includes expansion into upscale establishments such as trendy bars, fine-dining restaurants, and, ultimately, major cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. These aspirations, however, are contingent upon addressing current logistical challenges.
Bizani’s story stands as an inspiration, demonstrating that entrepreneurial spirit, combined with a focused approach, can overcome significant obstacles. His success highlights the potential within South Africa’s burgeoning spirits industry.
