Ernst Gouws & Co is a family-owned winery located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, with a winemaking heritage that dates back to 1691. The Gouws family’s journey began when their ancestors, originally named “Gauch,” arrived in South Africa as part of the French Huguenot migration. This deep-rooted history has evolved into a modern boutique winery that blends tradition with contemporary winemaking practices.
In 2004, Ernst and Gwenda Gouws acquired 66 hectares of land on the Stellenbosch Wine Route, establishing the foundation for Ernst Gouws & Co. Ernst, having studied winemaking at the Weinsberg Wine School in Germany and gained experience in France’s Champagne and Bordeaux regions, brought a wealth of knowledge to the venture. His vision was to create a family-run winery that produces high-quality wines reflecting the unique terroir of Stellenbosch.
The winery’s portfolio includes a diverse range of varietals, such as Pinotage, Merlot, Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay. Each wine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, aiming to express the character of the region and the family’s commitment to excellence. Notably, the “CEZ” range pays tribute to the women of the Gouws family, celebrating their contributions to the winery’s legacy.
Today, Ernst Gouws & Co continues to thrive under the stewardship of the Gouws family, with the next generation actively involved in various aspects of the business. Their dedication to producing wines that embody both heritage and innovation ensures that the winery remains a distinguished name in South Africa’s wine industry.
