Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry: South Africa’s Iconic Winter Warmer

When it comes to South African wine and spirits, few names carry the same cultural weight as Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry. Fondly referred to as “OB’s” by many South Africans, this iconic fortified wine has been a staple in homes across the country for generations. Whether enjoyed around a crackling fire in the winter or used to add depth to cooking, Old Brown Sherry has firmly rooted itself in the hearts and tastes of the nation.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history, unique characteristics, and cultural significance of Sedgewick’s Old Brown Sherry, and why it deserves a place in your collection—even far beyond the borders of South Africa. You can buy this iconic wine now from our website at www.southafricanwines.co.uk by clicking here.

A Brief History of Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry

Sedgewick’s Old Brown Sherry is produced by Sedgwick Distillery, a company with a storied history dating back to 1850 when Captain James Sedgewick, a former sea captain, founded it in Wellington, Western Cape. Originally focused on producing spirits, the distillery expanded over the years, introducing various beverages to the South African market.

The Old Brown Sherry was introduced in 1916 and quickly became popular due to its accessibility, affordability, and warming qualities. Unlike traditional sherry, which hails from Spain and is made from white grapes such as Palomino, Sedgewick’s Old Brown is made using a unique blend of grapes that includes red varietals. This gives the sherry its deep brown colour and rich, sweet flavour.

More than a century later, Old Brown Sherry has achieved cult status in South Africa. It has earned a reputation as a “winter warmer” due to its ability to heat the body and soul on cold nights. The wine is also widely appreciated for its versatility, being enjoyed neat, mixed into cocktails, or incorporated into cooking.

What Exactly Is Old Brown Sherry?

The name “sherry” typically refers to fortified wines from the Jerez region in Spain, but the term has been adopted for similar styles made in other parts of the world. Fortified wines are wines that have had a distilled spirit, usually brandy, added to them. This raises the alcohol content, enhances the shelf life, and can create a distinct sweetness or dryness depending on the style.

Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry is a sweet, fortified wine made from a blend of grapes grown in South Africa. It falls under the cream sherry category, characterized by its rich, sweet, and velvety texture. At around 17.5% alcohol by volume, Old Brown is stronger than regular table wines but retains a smooth, drinkable quality that has endeared it to fans for decades.

The colour of Old Brown is a deep, mahogany brown, with inviting aromas of dried fruit, caramel, and hints of spice. On the palate, expect flavors of raisins, molasses, nuts, and a touch of chocolate, all wrapped up in a warming, slightly syrupy texture.

Tasting Notes

While it’s beloved by casual drinkers for its no-frills warmth and sweetness, there’s more to Old Brown Sherry than meets the eye—or palate.

• Appearance: Deep amber to dark brown, reminiscent of mahogany.
• Nose: A complex bouquet of dried fruits like raisins and prunes, alongside nutty aromas, caramel, and a whisper of spices.
• Palate: Rich and sweet, with layers of brown sugar, dried fruits, molasses, and hints of toffee and chocolate. The fortification adds a touch of heat that balances the sweetness and adds complexity to each sip.
• Finish: Long and warming, with lingering notes of nuts, sweet spices, and subtle oak undertones.

Despite its sweetness, the balance of sugar and alcohol prevents it from becoming overly cloying, making it an easy sipper during winter months.

How to Enjoy Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry

Part of Old Brown Sherry’s appeal is its versatility. Whether you’re a purist or someone who likes to experiment, there are several ways to enjoy this iconic fortified wine.

1. Neat or On the Rocks

The classic way to enjoy Sedgewick’s Old Brown is neat or over ice. This method allows you to appreciate the rich, sweet flavours in their purest form. During colder months, many prefer it warmed gently or sipped by the fireplace, which enhances its warming qualities.

2. In Cocktails

While Sedgwick’s Old Brown is traditionally enjoyed neat, it’s also a great base for creative cocktails. Its sweetness pairs well with a variety of mixers, and it can add depth to both hot and cold drinks. Here are a couple of cocktail ideas:

• OB’s Hot Toddy: Add a measure of Old Brown Sherry to hot water with a spoonful of honey, a cinnamon stick, and a slice of lemon. Perfect for cold winter evenings.
• Sherry Cobbler: Mix Old Brown with citrus juice and a touch of sugar, then pour over crushed ice for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink.

3. In Cooking

Old Brown Sherry is frequently used in cooking, particularly in South African households. It can be added to stews, soups, and sauces to impart a deep, rich flavour. The sweetness and complexity of the wine complement savoury dishes, adding a hint of caramelized depth. Some popular culinary uses include:

• Meat Glazes: Use Old Brown to create a glaze for meats such as ham or beef. Its sweetness and rich flavour can balance the saltiness of cured meats, adding a complex finish.
• Stews: Add a splash to beef stews or lamb casseroles. The sherry’s robust flavours will enhance the heartiness of the dish.
• Desserts: Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or use it in sticky toffee pudding for an extra layer of indulgence.

The Cultural Impact of Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry

Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry holds a special place in South African culture. It has become synonymous with winter camping trips, fishing weekends, and family gatherings. As one of the most affordable fortified wines in the country, it’s accessible to a broad audience, and its versatility means it can be enjoyed in almost any setting.

In many ways, Old Brown Sherry represents the essence of South Africa—warm, inviting, and rich with character. It’s a drink that evokes nostalgia for many South Africans, reminding them of special moments shared with family and friends. Whether it’s a bottle cracked open around the campfire or poured during a quiet evening at home, Old Brown has become a beloved part of South Africa’s social and culinary fabric.

Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry Beyond South Africa

While Old Brown Sherry is a household name in South Africa, its appeal has spread beyond the country’s borders. Wine enthusiasts across the globe, particularly those who enjoy fortified wines, have come to appreciate its bold flavour and unbeatable value. For fans of traditional sherries or those simply looking for something new to try, Sedgewick’s Old Brown is a unique and satisfying option.

Conclusion

Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Whether you’re sipping it neat, using it in your favourite winter cocktail, or adding a splash to your cooking, Old Brown Sherry offers warmth, flavour, and a sense of connection to South Africa’s rich wine heritage. Affordable yet full of character, it’s no surprise that this fortified wine has maintained its popularity for over a century.

So, whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of fortified wines, make sure you have a bottle of Sedgwick’s Old Brown Sherry on hand for those moments when only a rich, warming drink will do.

Buy this truly great South African institution now by clicking here to go to our website

www.sedgwicksoldbrown.com

www.southafricanwines.co.uk/product/sedgwicks-old-brown-sherry/