A Love Story That Spanned Continents
Some stories are written in the stars. For the founders of VerGin SA, destiny came calling not once, but twice. Twenty-four years after their first encounter, their love rekindled, sparking a journey of adventure, resilience, and the birth of something truly special. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Vermont, South Africa, this tale intertwines romance, fate, and a shared entrepreneurial dream. From spontaneous travels to mid-life wake-up calls, their story was anything but ordinary. It took an erupting volcano, a glass of Hibiscus tonic, and a moment of clarity by the poolside to spark the idea that would become VerGin SA - a non-alcoholic spirit that captures the indulgence of a premium cocktail without the negative effects of alcohol, sugar, or artificial additives.
Determined to create an elevated alternative for mindful drinkers, they embarked on a journey of discovery. Combining her hometown’s name, Vermont, with the essence of a "virgin" gin, VerGin SA took shape. The goal was clear - beautifully packaged, premium products with sophisticated flavour profiles - made to sip, not gulped down - that could be served with just as much theatre as normal cocktails, minus the alcohol. Something that not only tastes great but is good for you too. All natural and jam-packed with healthy organic botanicals. Partnering with an organic farm, a visionary botanist, and a master distiller with a PhD in Chemistry, they spent endless hours perfecting their craft. After countless experiments and late nights, they unveiled two flagship flavours: Bloom, a contemporary, floral profile, and Limón, a bright, citrus-forward classic.
Recognition & Growth
The industry took notice. In 2019, Limón earned a silver medal at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, making it one of the few non-alcoholic spirits to receive such acclaim. That same year, competing against international brands like Seedlip, VerGin SA won Best Spirits in a double-blind tasting at the Mindful Drinking Festival. Despite the pandemic’s setbacks, VerGin SA persevered. In 2020 the UK’s LUX Life Magazine awarded VerGin SA the Best Non-Alcoholic Distilled Spirits Brand and in 2021 the overall Best Non-Alcoholic Beverage Brand. By 2022, the brand was named Best Global Non-Alcoholic Beverage Brand at the Corporate Live Wire Innovation & Excellence Awards, also in London. Before Covid, VerGin SA products were available in over 200 retail outlets, served in top restaurants, and exported to multiple international markets.
New Chapter: VerGin 2.0
In 2024, VerGin SA invested in product development, refining the distillation process and enhancing flavour profiles. At the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, Bloom 2.0 took home Gold, and Limón 2.0 secured Silver - the only two products awarded in their category. But the biggest transformation was yet to come - the next generation is stepping in. 2025 marks a significant milestone as Tarmin and Cailin, two of the founders’ daughters, step into their roles as co-CEOs. From helping bottle and label the first batches of VerGin SA in their Vermont home as teenagers, to pursuing their own paths abroad, they’ve come full circle. Their passion for wellness and entrepreneurship has led them back to VerGin SA, ready to infuse fresh energy into the brand. With their combined expertise, vision, and drive, they’re committed to taking VerGin SA to new heights.
New flavours, new markets, and a renewed commitment to mindful drinking.
This is just the beginning.
Stay connected and follow our journey on Facebook and Instagram.
With love,
Stof, T, Tarmin & Cailin xx
