The Cape Wine Auction, having amassed more than R125 million for children’s charities in the Cape Winelands since its 2014 inception, is gearing up for its 2024 event at Muratie Estate in Stellenbosch on February 3rd. This year, the aim is to surpass the impressive R8 million raised during the previous auction. Renowned globally as a premier wine-themed charity event, the auction will feature an array of donated lots, including luxurious wine, gastronomic experiences, and hospitality offerings. All proceeds will be directed to various charities dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and youth in South Africa’s famed Cape Winelands.
Attendees can anticipate bidding on curated lots generously provided by different wine farms, such as exclusive island stays in Benguerra Island, Mozambique, and Corfu, Greece. Unique South African experiences will also be up for auction, ranging from stays at Ellerman House in Cape Town to visits to Silvan Safari Lodge in Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. Additionally, a Constantia lot promises an immersion in the culture and hospitality of South Africa’s oldest wine region, featuring a delightful exploration of the country’s finest wines.
This year’s auction will introduce a new offering: specially labeled barrels of wine from leading South African producers under the distinctive Cape Wine Auction label. Paul Clüver, chairman of the auction trustees, highlights the exclusivity of these lots, each containing 300 specially labeled bottles from top producers. These collections will remain unique to the auction, presenting buyers with a one-of-a-kind assortment of wines.
Barrels to be auctioned include notable selections like Kanonkop Pinotage 2020, Glen Carlou Gravel Quarry Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Paul Clüver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2022, Rupert&Rothschild Baroness Nadine Chardonnay 2023, and Diemersdal The Journal Sauvignon Blanc 2023, among others.
Clüver emphasizes that the Cape Wine Auction originated from a commitment to tangibly uplift children and youth in the Western Cape winelands, collaborating with recognized charities deeply engaged in educational initiatives.
“Since its inception in 2014, the Cape Wine Auction has evolved into a global leader among charity wine events, directing every raised cent to identified charities pivotal in addressing the educational needs of underprivileged rural communities in the Winelands,” explains Clüver. “These charities not only provide education and facilities but also extend social support, including meals, acknowledging the concerning levels of malnutrition influenced by socio-economic factors in these areas. It’s crucial to recognize that a hungry child cannot effectively learn.”
Clüver emphasizes the current economic challenges faced by South Africans, particularly disadvantaged communities, underscoring the crucial role of fundraising entities like the Cape Winelands. “With inflation and decreased public sector budgets impacting everyone, it’s pivotal for us in the wine industry to rally and raise funds for those in need,” he remarks.
“Through our focus on education, the Cape Wine Auction not only offers immediate support by granting children access to education and nutrition but also serves as a launching pad for youth, enabling them to step into productive adult lives with dignity. This impact will not only benefit the Winelands but contribute to South Africa as a whole.”
