Blog

The Jolly Rooster Story: From Randburg to the Overberg

The Jolly Rooster Story: From Randburg to the Overberg

Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery

The Jolly Rooster Story: From Randburg to the Overberg

The master distillers at Fynbos Distillery, Mike and GiGi, are the dynamic duo behind the famous Lollipop Lounge nightclub and Big Six Guesthouse in Randburg, Gauteng.

GiGi, who grew up in Paarl, Western Cape, was inspired by her dad’s home distilling experiments, especially his winning ginger beer. Mike, from Bezuidenhout Valley in Johannesburg, earned the nickname “Sandman” for his bouncer skills at The Ranch. He met GiGi, who danced there from 1997 to 2000.

Their journey took a turn when GiGi introduced Mike to the Overberg. They were captivated by the historic Sir Robert Stanford Estate, with its unique Mexican-styled cantina distillery. The apricot pip floor and 30-year-old copper still left a lasting impression.

Despite challenges - dilapidated equipment, theft, and SARS regulations - they pursued their dream of crafting spirits from the earth to the bottle. Their spirits began winning awards, and their resilience led them to a new venue in Stanford's industrial area.

The Panama cock-fighting experience inspired the name Jolly Rooster, and Fynbos Distillery now produces a range of spirits including witblits, mampoer, grappa, limoncello, gin, tequila, and rum.

So, this is the colourful story of the Jolly Rooster! 

Remember, life is too short to be a broody hen! Always indulge in naughty fowl play and make a point of wetting your beak at the Jolly Rooster! 

Xx
Mike and GiGi

The Jolly Rooster Story: From Randburg to the Overberg

Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery

Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery distillery in Stanford offers food and spirit pairing, a Portuguese-themed menu, and the sale of award-winning distilled products. Whether you soak up the sun on the welcoming patio or get cosy inside, get ready to fluff out your tail feathers and have fun! Award-wi...

View Profile

What is Xplorio?

Xplorio is your local connection allowing you to find anything and everything about a town.

Watch the Stanford Video
Read More

Recent Posts

Big Screen Rugby at Jolly Rooster Distillery

Big Screen Rugby at Jolly Rooster Distillery

Catch the Bokke on the big screen at Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery in Stanford!

Karaoke Evenings at Jolly Rooster!

Karaoke Evenings at Jolly Rooster!

Join us for a night of fun and music with our Karaoke Evenings!

Gigi, A Tribute by Anton Goosen

Gigi, A Tribute by Anton Goosen

We are excited to announce that Anton Goosen was inspired by GiGi - Nipple Caps and G-Strings to write a special tribute song! 

Award-Winning Craft Spirits and Food Pairing

Award-Winning Craft Spirits and Food Pairing

Join us daily for award-winning craft spirits and food pairing!

Private Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Private Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

It’s time to party at the Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery!

Pensioners Thursday: 10% OFF

Pensioners Thursday: 10% OFF

It's Pensioners Day every Thursday at Jolly Rooster @ Fynbos Distillery!