This year’s Cape Wine Auction in partnership with Mastercard, which took place on 18 February has raised close to R8 million for charity. The prestigious auction event has now accumulated over R125 million since its launch event in 2014.
What went down?
This year, the auction was held at the lovely Stellenbosch-based Hazendal Wine Estate. Guests were bidding competitively, but generously for a collection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences and unique collector’s items.
Four of the most sought after lots of the grand affair made up almost half of the total amount raised. Lot 19 was for a three-night getaway for eight people, staying at the lavish &Beyond Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. It was sold for R1 million, twice! Lot 20 was for an ultra-luxurious safari experience for eight people at the award-winning Cheetah Plains in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. This one also went for R1 million. In addition, Lot 21 was for a five-day stay in Paris, including two golden seat tickets to the Rugby World Cup final, courtesy of Mastercard. This lot was sold for R600 000.
The Gift of the Giving Lots also raised a significant amount of money. These were straight-forward donations to charitable causes (no prizes/holidays/experiences in return) and added up to a total of R475 000.
About the auction
The Cape Wine Auction is considered one of the most significant international wine charity auctions, uniting the industry around a single goal of raising money for education. In its 10-year history, the auction has raised over R125 million. 100% of the proceeds are managed by The Cape Wine Auction Trust and gets distributed among carefully selected beneficiaries.
To infinity and beyond
Said Raymond Ndlovu, Chairman of The Cape Wine Auction Trust: “We are absolutely thrilled with this year’s results especially given the tough economic times we are going through.” He added that the money raised allows the Trust to continue its invaluable work with their beneficiaries, all of whom are dedicated to improving the education and lives of children in the Cape winelands.
Country Manager at Mastercard Southern Africa, Gabriel Swanepoel added: “We are delighted by the response to this year’s auction, which is testament to the importance of doing well by doing good. Through platforms such as the Cape Wine Auction, we have been able to further make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it the most. We are proud to be associated with such an esteemed initiative, which has once again afforded us an opportunity to continue being a force for good.” He also said that going forward, we need to continue uniting and standing together, coming up with innovative, meaningful solutions that are relevant for today and the future.
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