The History of Beer in South Africa: A Journey Through Culture, Colonies, and Craft

Beer in South Africa is far more than a simple beverage — it’s a reflection of culture, identity, and history that stretches back centuries. From traditional African sorghum brews to today’s vibrant craft beer movement, South Africa’s beer story is rich and dynamic.

Ancient Brews and Indigenous Traditions

Long before European settlers arrived, African communities were already brewing beer. These early beers, often made from sorghum or millet, were central to social, spiritual, and cultural life. Known locally as umqombothi, this traditional beer is thick, opaque, and slightly sour, with a relatively low alcohol content. It was — and still is — brewed mostly by women and consumed at ceremonies, communal gatherings, and rites of passage.

The process is hands-on and communal, using natural fermentation and local ingredients, making each batch unique. Even today, umqombothi holds a special place in rural life and is a symbol of heritage and hospitality.

Colonial Influence and Industrial Brewing

The arrival of Dutch settlers in the 1600s marked a shift in South Africa’s beer landscape. Jan van Riebeeck, the founder of Cape Town and a representative of the Dutch East India Company, brewed the first European-style beer in the Cape in 1658. The cooler climate of the Cape and the influx of European settlers created demand for barley- and hop-based beers similar to those from Europe.

British colonisation in the 1800s further entrenched beer consumption, and with the Industrial Revolution came commercial brewing. In 1895, the Castle Brewery was established in Johannesburg to cater to the rapidly growing mining population in the Witwatersrand. It later became South African Breweries (SAB), which would grow into one of the world’s largest beer producers and a household name across the country.

Apartheid, Beer Halls, and Resistance

During apartheid, the government tightly controlled the production and sale of beer. Municipal beer halls were set up as a way to control and profit from the Black population’s consumption of alcohol. These state-run facilities were often overcrowded, strictly policed, and symbolic of the oppressive regime.

In response, many communities began brewing traditional beer in defiance, asserting cultural identity and autonomy. Informal beer brewing became an act of quiet resistance, especially in the townships.

Democracy and the Rise of Craft Beer

With the end of apartheid in the 1990s, South Africa opened up to global trends — and one of the most exciting developments in recent decades has been the explosion of craft beer. Young entrepreneurs and independent brewers began experimenting with hops, yeast strains, and local ingredients like rooibos, buchu, and honeybush to create uniquely South African flavours.

Cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban have developed thriving craft beer scenes, complete with breweries, taprooms, and festivals. Brands like Devil’s Peak, Jack Black, and Drifter have become pioneers in the local industry.

A Future Brewed with Heritage and Innovation

Today, South Africa’s beer culture is a rich fusion of past and present — where ancient sorghum beers share the stage with modern IPAs, lagers, and stouts. The industry continues to evolve, with a growing focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and the celebration of African ingredients and traditions.

Beer in South Africa is more than a drink — it’s a thread woven through the nation’s complex and colourful history.