In this edition of Rooibos Innovation, we highlight exciting ways Rooibos is inspiring creativity and wellness across beverages, tea blends, and even gourmet treats. 

From Earth’s Essence’s naturally preserved Rooibos-inspired wine, beer, and cider, to Gordon’s & BOS’s low-ABV Rooibos iced tea RTDs bringing flavour-forward refreshment to social moments, Rooibos continues to lead in innovation.

We also celebrate Rooibos in the tea world with Rioba’s expanded Rooibos-forward blends, designed for energising, soothing, and serene moments, and in the culinary sphere with Mondvol’s beloved Rooibos cookie, capturing the warmth and nostalgia of a freshly brewed cup. Discover how Rooibos keeps evolving, from drinks and teas to sweet creations, showcasing its versatility, flavour, and enduring appeal.

Earth’s Essence Liquors has unveiled its first range of natural wine, beer, and cider, proudly preserved with Rooibos and honeybush antioxidants. Free from artificial additives, these beverages offer a cleaner, better-for-you drinking experience while enhancing the delicate flavours of each drink - celebrating South Africa’s indigenous flora and spirit of innovation.

Though “Rooibos” appears in the product names, the drinks are not Rooibos-flavoured; the plant extracts act purely as functional antioxidants. Available now at selected Checkers LiquorShop outlets in Cape Town and via Checkers Sixty60, this exciting collection is set for a national rollout next year.

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Diageo has entered South Africa’s ready-to-drink (RTD) category with a new low-ABV alcoholic iced tea, in collaboration with local Rooibos iced tea maker BOS Brands. Branded as Gordon’s & BOS G&Tea, the non-carbonated drinks combine Gordon’s gin with BOS’s Rooibos-based herbal iced teas, available in two flavour profiles: lemon with mint and peach with rosemary.

This nationwide rollout covers key supermarkets, convenience outlets, and select lifestyle channels, offering consumers a flavour-forward, moderate-alcohol option. The collaboration marks BOS’s largest category innovation to date, reflecting the growing popularity of Rooibos-inspired, lifestyle-oriented RTDs for Gen Z and young Millennials seeking social, shared drinking experiences.

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Metro Türkiye’s Rioba brand is expanding its tea selection with new Rooibos-forward offerings, bringing the total to 29 varieties.

Highlights include their Breath Harmony product, a soothing Rooibos-based herbal blend designed to refresh the throat and lift the spirits.

Available in both tea bags and bulk, Rioba continues to celebrate Rooibos’ versatility alongside black, green, white, and oolong teas. Whether for energising mornings, refreshing breaks, or relaxing moments, the Rooibos blends offer a naturally comforting and flavorful way to enjoy tea anytime.

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Andriette Giorgiou, founder of the popular South African cookie brand Mondvol, recently appeared on the Afrikaans show Kokkedoor: Son & See, where she shared insights into her growing business.

When asked about her favourite Mondvol cookie, Andriette didn’t hesitate: it’s the Rooibos cookie. She explained that its flavour perfectly captures the taste of a freshly brewed cup of Rooibos and evokes cherished childhood memories of family moments, making it a truly special creation in her collection.

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