For 15 years, Compagniesdrift has stood as a testament to possibility, resilience, and shared purpose. What began as a vision to empower farmworker families and create meaningful opportunities within the South African wine landscape has grown into a flourishing business rooted in quality, community upliftment, and women-led leadership. As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on five defining moments that have shaped who we are today.
2025: Makataan Chunks Win Product of the Year – Agri-Expo Preserve Competition
Our most recent achievement is one that fills us with enormous pride. In 2025, Compagniesdrift’s Makataan Chunks were named Product of the Year at the prestigious Agri-Expo Preserve Competition. This recognition is particularly meaningful because it honours not only taste and craftsmanship but also the traditions and cultural heritage that inspire our preserves.
It also highlights the dedication of our hardworking team who continuously innovate within the Farm Shop range. This award affirms that Compagniesdrift is not just about exceptional wines, we are building a household brand for quality farm-to-table products with a proudly local identity.
2024: Growing Inclusivity Award – Wine Harvest Commemorative Event
In 2024, Managing Director Ilse Ruthford was honoured with the Growing Inclusivity Award at the annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event. This recognition shines a light on Ilse’s unwavering commitment to transformation, education, and community development within the South African wine sector.
Ilse’s leadership has been foundational to Compagniesdrift’s success. Her work continues to open doors for the next generation, creating sustainable opportunities for individuals who have been part of the project from the beginning, and for those who will join us in the years to come.
2022: Launch of Albertus NV – A Tribute to Our Mentors
The launch of Albertus NV, our natural sweet wine, marked a heartfelt milestone for Compagniesdrift. Created as a tribute to Hannes Myburgh and Albie de Waal, two extraordinary mentors who have guided this project since its inception, the wine encapsulates gratitude, legacy, and craftsmanship.
Albertus NV represents more than a product release, it symbolises the passing down of knowledge, the spirit of collaboration, and the respect we hold for the individuals who believed in the vision long before it came to life.
2021: Opening of the Compagniesdrift Wine & Farm Shop
A milestone close to our hearts is the opening of the Wine & Farm Shop in 2021. Created as a welcoming space for customers to taste and purchase our wines, the shop has quickly grown into a vibrant community hub.
Today, it also proudly showcases female-owned, non-wine products, locally made artisanal goods, and wines from our storage clients, giving them an accessible platform for visibility and sales.
The Farm Shop stands as a physical expression of our values, supporting small businesses, celebrating quality, and building community one visit at a time.
2014: DAFF Female Entrepreneur – Agri-Processing Award
In 2014, Ilse Ruthford received the DAFF Female Entrepreneur Award in the Agri-Processing category. This honour recognised her leadership, vision, and dedication to empowering women within agriculture.
This award was a pivotal moment in Compagniesdrift’s history. Not only did it acknowledge Ilse’s personal achievements, but it also signalled the beginning of a new chapter, one in which the business would grow, diversify, and take its place among South Africa’s inspiring success stories.
A heartfelt thank you
As we look back on 15 years of milestones, partnerships, and growth, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have supported us along the way. To every colleague, mentor, customer, and collaborator, thank you for being part of our story.
A special thank you to South Africa Wine, Wieta, Department of Agriculture, Meerlust Estate, and the Western Cape Government.
Your support, guidance, and belief in our mission have helped shape Compagniesdrift into the thriving, purpose-driven business it is today.
Here’s to the next 15 years, rooted in community, guided by passion, and driven by possibility. Cheers!
