Proudly South African Drinks: A Beginner's Guide.

Today we’re chatting mixology—not the “on special” brandy-and-Coke at the pub. We’re diving into local, homebrewed drinks born in Mzansi. If you’re a drink enthusiast (or just want to wow a dinner party), try these South African nightcaps.

The Bergiebomb

SA’s cheeky counterpart to a Jägerbomb. The name riffs on the local term “bergie” and the drink itself was famously born from a sparse bar and a lonely can of beer—tough times, great vibes.

Ingredients

• 1 shot Old Brown Sherry
• 1 can beer (preferably something that’s been chilling in the fridge)

Directions

1. Fill a shot glass with Old Brown Sherry.
2. Place the shot glass inside a tumbler and pour beer around it until level with the rim of the shot.

South Africa going toe‑to‑toe with the Jägerbomb—on our own terms.

Melktertjies

A liquid love letter to melktert. Dessert in a glass—with a boozy boost. Shots or sips, your call.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle vodka
• 1 can condensed milk
• 1/2 can evaporated milk
• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. In a blender (or with serious whisk power), mix vodka, condensed milk, and evaporated milk.
2. Decant into a large bottle or container; chill at least 1 hour.
3. Pour into shot or rocks glasses and dust with cinnamon.

The Sowetan Toilet

Wild name, creamy payoff. The “look” makes the joke; the flavours keep you coming back. Not for the squeamish—definitely for the adventurous.

Ingredients

• 30 ml banana liqueur
• 7–10 ml Amarula cream liqueur
• 3–4 dashes dark crème de cacao

Directions

1. Shake banana liqueur with ice; strain into a shot glass.
2. Slowly sink the Amarula into the centre to congeal at the bottom.
3. Finish with a few dashes of crème de cacao on top.

The Dom Pedro

A national treasure. Think “Irish coffee” energy—minus the coffee, plus ice‑cream luxury. Perfect summer dessert drink (or Dros‑style grand finale).

Ingredients

• 2–3 scoops vanilla ice cream (Woolies if you’re fancy)
• 2 shots whisky or Amarula (or one of each)
• 50 ml cream
• Dark chocolate (for garnish)

Directions

1. Blend ice cream, alcohol, and cream until smooth.
2. (Optional) Swirl melted chocolate in the glass.
3. Pour, then grate dark chocolate on top.

Responsible sip, happy life: enjoy these with care. Quality over quantity, always. May your pantry be stocked, your ice be plentiful, and your guests impressed.