By Charmaine Ndlela And Lebone Rodah Masina
The festive season is officially upon us, and across South Africa the calendar is filling up with celebrations, social gatherings, and outings in some of the country’s most vibrant spaces. In Johannesburg, the Maboneng Precinct continues to stand out as one of the city’s top lifestyle destinations—renowned for its culture, food, music, and, of course, its wine and cocktails.
Whether you are planning a laid-back afternoon with friends or a lively evening out, choosing the right drinks plays a key role in shaping the experience.
Maboneng pubs and restaurants are known for striking a balance between premium wines, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, catering to both daytime visitors and nighttime party-goers.
According to industry trends in Johannesburg’s urban entertainment hubs, wine accounts for nearly 45–50% of alcohol sales in dining-focused venues.
Cocktails make up about 30–35%, particularly during weekends and nightlife events, while spirits such as tequila, whiskey, and gin dominate late-night sales—especially during music-driven events like karaoke and live jazz.
One of Maboneng’s standout venues, Bertrand Café, is deeply rooted in music, culture, and experiential dining. Speaking on behalf of the venue, co-owner and operations director Cindy explains that wine remains their strongest seller.
“In our restaurant, we actually have our own wine—our own vintage and label called Bertrand Classique Wine. It’s one of our top sellers, both during the day and in the evenings, especially during activities like karaoke nights, jazz sessions, and Black Jazz events.”
Because Bertrand Café focuses on a dining experience, guests naturally gravitate toward wines such as Chardonnay and other classic varietals. Wine is the café’s top-selling category, followed by tequila and then cocktails.
“Tequila really picks up during upbeat evenings like karaoke nights. That’s when we see a lot more cocktail and tequila orders,” she added.
Cocktails play a major role in Maboneng’s nightlife economy, with fruity and refreshing options leading sales. At Bertrand Café, the top two cocktails are the Strawberry Daiquiri and Sex on the Beach.
“What makes ours special is that we give them a twist—it’s our version of those classics,” Cindy said.
Across Maboneng, cocktail sales typically increase by up to 40% on weekends, especially during live music events and festive seasons.
For first-time guests, Bertrand Café prioritises personalisation rather than pushing specific drinks.
“We want to understand your spirit—what brings you here. We’re more of an experiential restaurant. It’s about the experience, not just consumption,” Cindy said.
Guests in a celebratory mood are often guided toward cocktails, while those seeking relaxed dining are introduced to the café’s wine selection, complete with tastings and the story behind the label.
Popular alcoholic cocktail bases include:
- Whiskey: Jameson, Jim Beam
- Vodka: Cîroc
- Gin: Tanqueray
- Tequila and classic spirits for party nights
Non-alcoholic mixers commonly used include tonic water, lemonade, Coke, ginger beer, and lemon. These also support the growing demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic drink options, which have increased steadily in urban venues in recent years.
At Wine Night Stand Bar, founder Katebe Musonda notes that wine preferences shift depending on the time of day.
“During the day, people generally prefer white wines—Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs. In the evening, red wines dominate, especially during dinner,” Musonda said.
The bar’s best-selling evening wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinotage.
“At night, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are definitely our top sellers. We’re known for selling some of the best wines in Johannesburg,” he added.
Non-alcoholic options at Wine Night Stand Bar include grape juice, water, and coffee, often enjoyed either before or after wine.
Six Cocktail Bar in Melville describes itself as a “busy cosmopolitan cocktail bar that rocks.” Now in its 11th year, the venue says it remains one of Johannesburg’s most popular cocktail bars.
Manager Gugu Xakaza said the Legendary Long Island is the most ordered drink this year, making it the bar’s best-selling and most frequently made cocktail.
Besides the Legendary Long Island—which consists of Bacardi rum, gin, vodka, lime juice, and tequila—Xakaza said patrons often opt for classic cocktails.
“It depends on the night, but people usually go for Margaritas, Old Fashioneds, and Martinis,” she said.
She also highlighted the bar’s house favourite, the Excitabull, made with vodka, Red Bull, berries, and Stroh (strong rum).
The Excitabull and Legendary Long Island are what Six Cocktail Bar is best known for, and both are recommended for first-time visitors.
She added that the bar also offers signature drinks, including Six in the City, made with cognac and sparkling wine, which is the most expensive cocktail on the menu.
This festive season, it’s not just about champagne flutes—it’s about smooth wines and vibrant cocktails that get people talking, laughing, and dancing.
Maboneng continues to prove that whether you’re sipping a well-crafted Cabernet or enjoying a signature cocktail, the right drink can turn a simple outing into a memorable experience.
From jazz-infused wine nights to high-energy cocktail evenings, Maboneng remains one of Johannesburg’s top destinations to raise a glass—responsibly and stylishly.
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