Our Story

It all started with three dudes & lots of potatoes

Meet the Team Behind the Brand

Jakkie Mellet

Director

Willie Sr

Director

Willie Jnr

Managing Director

Peter Nkundlha

Distiller

Where it all began…

This all began when Willie Jr got a small still and started distilling whiskey and spirits. It then turned into a discussion with Jakkie as Willie had noticed there were tons of potatoes that weren’t suitable for sale, and pretty much wasted feeding sheep from his farm… They then spent days in a board room, and with whiteboard markers in hand, began calculating. It was like the theory of relativity all over again and then it happened… V=PD² (Potato + distillery = VODKA!)

Unearthing South Africa’s Liquid Treasure

Three Dudes Distilling Company

Once upon a time, on the edge of the majestic Drakensberg range, nestled along the breathtaking Longtom Pass in Mpumalanga, there existed a hidden gem known as the Three Dudes Distilling Company.

Their story, like the mountains that surrounded them, was filled with passion, dedication, and a deep love for their homeland, South Africa.

The tale of Three Dudes Distilling Company began with three friends: James, Michael, and Sipho. They were more than just business partners; they were adventurers, explorers of flavour, and seekers of uniqueness. They shared a common dream of crafting something extraordinary, a spirit that would not only represent the soul of South Africa but also reflect their spirit of innovation. One fateful evening, while sitting around a campfire amidst the beauty of the Drakensberg, the three friends stumbled upon a fascinating fact – only a mere 3% of the world’s vodka production was made from potatoes. It was a revelation that sparked a fire of inspiration within them. They knew that potatoes, a locally sourced and underappreciated produce in South Africa, could hold the key to creating something truly exceptional.

Thus, the idea of creating a proudly South African potato vodka was born. They envisioned a vodka that would not only rival the finest spirits in the world but also showcase the untapped potential of their nation’s agricultural bounty. With a shared vision in mind, they set out on a journey of discovery and craftsmanship, determined to turn humble potatoes into liquid gold.

At the heart of their endeavors lay the desire to uplift local farmers and communities. They traversed the rolling hills and fertile valleys of Mpumalanga, seeking out the finest potatoes grown by hardworking farmers who were often overlooked by the mainstream market. Three Dudes Distilling Company wanted to celebrate these unsung heroes and give them the recognition they deserved.

The distillation process itself was an art form, a carefully choreographed dance between science and tradition. The Three Dudes meticulously selected only the best potatoes, ensuring that every batch of their vodka carried the essence of South Africa’s rich soil and warm sun. They combined age-old distillation techniques with modern innovation, allowing the vodka to evolve into a smooth and refined spirit that captured the spirit of the land.

As word spread about the Three Dudes venture, the world took notice. Their mixing vodkas, crafted with the same dedication to quality and creativity, also found a special place in the hearts of mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike. But it was the premium-grade potato vodka that stole the show, earning accolades from vodka connoisseurs worldwide.

With every bottle of Three Dudes vodka, a piece of South Africa’s soul was shared with the world. The label proudly displayed the breathtaking silhouette of the Drakensberg range and the Longtom Pass, serving as a constant reminder of the land’s significance in the vodka’s creation.

But the true heart of Three Dudes Distilling Company remained in the bond between James, Michael, and Sipho. They cherished their friendship and the collective dream they brought to life. They believed that by staying true to their values, they could inspire others to embrace their roots, support local industries, and celebrate the beauty of their diverse nation.

And so, the Three Dudes story continues, etched into every bottle they produce, inviting all who taste their vodka to join in their quest to unearth South Africa’s liquid treasure. For in each sip lies the tale of three friends, their passion for innovation, and the spirit of a proud nation.

As the sun sets over the Drakensberg, casting a golden glow on the Longtom Pass, the legacy of Three Dudes Distilling Company endures—a testament to the power of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of crafting something extraordinary.