There is no scent more nostalgic and reminiscent of our epic childhood than the smell of ‘Grannie Annie’s Hoof Dressing’ (as it was affectionately known). A golden syrup tin floating about with the hoof oil inside could always be found on the farm at Dalefield, ready for painting onto the horses’ hooves and our hands. 

Granny managed to keep the recipe she created in the 1970s a closely guarded secret and it became legendary in the Central Otago area. We suspect her sharp wit had something to do with its local fame. In 2018, Grannie Annie finally gave in to the nagging from us pesky grandkids and the recipe was passed on.

Sarah, Amy and Rosie (Sarah and Amy being sisters by blood, Rosie being a sister by choice). Brewing began on Amy’s backyard BBQ in the suburbs of Queenstown. Despite the smell of the rendered fat, the neighbours never questioned us. There are still stains on Amy’s concrete from where things have spilled. We added our own ‘chuck a bit of this in’ attitude before graduating to the Official Plastic Champagne Flute measurement system. We were officially away!

As more and more people have discovered the magic of the hoof oil we have evolved the brand into what it is today. Laughing with a wine, pink gin or cider while brewing the hoof oil is still our preferred team bonding exercise. Fun and friendship have been at the heart of Witches Brew from the get-go. Even as we have transitioned from a hobby into a business we have made sure we retain our mischievous ways.”