Ross Gower Wines, Company

After selling the family citrus farm in the Eastern Cape in 1999 the Gower family looked at properties all over the Western Cape, but all agreed on the Elgin Valley, which on account of a slump in the traditional apple-growing industry had become affordable, as being the ideal. This elevated biosphere, roughly 75km East of Cape Town, is now considered as South Africa’s most exciting new wine area. Ross moved here in mid-2004, to tackle the huge task of building his own winery. The walls are constructed of rammed earth, chosen for its minimal impact on the surroundings, as well as superb natural insulating properties. (The family was originally inspired by both the Cape Mentelle, in Australia, and Cloudy Bay, in New Zealand, wineries) The simple construction also meant that Ross and his sons could build it themselves, albeit with some trepidation, as to date no-one had built as large a rammed earth structure in Southern Africa. Currently there are six ha planted to Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz with further plantings in the pipeline. Although Ross had to some extent been disadvantaged working with young vineyards, it is as a result of his commitment that the Ross Gower brand will consist of only grapes from Elgin. This tradition is being held onto by the family, and the brand will continue to only use local grapes. Ross' foresight to acquire all of his own equipment also means that the family has complete control over the netire production of the wine, leading to a higher quality and more personal and timeless product. Two of Ross’ sons, Robert and James have since joined the organisation, Robert in the vineyards and Cellar, with James in the marketing arm and some winemaking duties during the harvest time. The family as a whole strives to make the best wines possible and the minimal intervention process is used to create wines that communicate the wondrous quality of the fruit from the Elgin Valley.