In the wine industry, few individuals have made as profound and lasting an impact as Cobus Germishuys. He is not only a wine connoisseur, but also a person who inspires everyone he encounters with his extraordinary zest for life and boundless energy. His life exemplifies how passion and dedication can elevate one to new heights.
Born on the Remhoogte farm near Baardskeerdersbos in the Overberg, Cobus decided from a young age to be different and make a meaningful impact. Inspired by his mother’s wisdom, he learned early on to approach any challenge with confidence. He developed a love for literature and broadened his knowledge through interviews with government officials and by engaging in volunteer work. His writing eventually led him into the tourism industry, where he authored articles for major publications.
However, it was in the wine industry that he discovered his true calling. At Kanu, which relocated to the former Mulderbosch farm on the Bottelary Hills, Cobus had the privilege of meeting notable figures like Margaret Thatcher, President Arab Moy, and Oprah Winfrey. Each encounter left an indelible mark on his life. Despite these meetings with world-renowned personalities, Cobus remains humble and treats everyone with the same respect and compassion.
In his role as Tasting Room Manager at Kanu, Cobus is more than just a wine expert. He approaches each day with passion and imagination, leaving a lasting impact on the wine industry over the years. His warmth, empathy, and positivity make him a true beacon of light, especially in a time when such qualities are more needed than ever.
Heleen Niere, one of his admirers, describes him as follows: “In the tasting room, Cobus is not just a wine expert, but also an artist who paints the air around him with his stories. His knowledge of wine is encyclopedic, and his ability to intertwine fact and fiction leaves you wondering what is real. With a playful twinkle in his eye and a voice as smooth as an aged Cabernet, Cobus captivates everyone he meets.”
Cobus’s life story is not only one of success in the wine industry, but also an inspiration for anyone who aspires to follow their dreams and encourage others to do the same. With his unquenchable energy and passion for people and life, Cobus takes people on a journey to other worlds through his masterful storytelling. His tales give listeners a deeper appreciation for life itself.
In every glass of wine and in every story, he shares, Cobus leaves a lasting impression – one that reminds us of the power of imagination, compassion, and the indomitable spirit to inspire.