In a significant demonstration of community support, Eskort has teamed up with Saronsberg Cellar and renowned Mzansi artist Norman Catherine to raise R2 million for underprivileged children. This effort comes through the Liberi wine collection, which includes a 2021 Shiraz and a 2020 Chardonnay, both featuring Catherine’s distinctive artwork on their labels.
The Liberi wines, a limited edition offering featuring a 2021 Shiraz and a 2020 Chardonnay, have become symbols of hope and generosity. The labels, adorned with the surrealist art of Norman Catherine, have captured the imagination of collectors and wine enthusiasts alike.
The funds generated from the sale of these exclusive bottles have been donated to the Beeld-Kinderfonds, a fund dedicated to supporting child development projects across the country. Recently, the fruits of this collaborative effort were celebrated as the R2 million was handed over to the children’s fund.
Adrie van Staden, the fund’s chief executive, expressed profound gratitude for the support. “The R2 million will be distributed to 20 child development projects and will benefit more than 8,000 underprivileged children,” she said.
This generous donation will aid in addressing the needs of children who have faced poverty, neglect, and abuse, providing them with essential resources and support.
Eskort chief executive Arnold Prinsloo extended his thanks to all parties involved in the Liberi project. He acknowledged the significant contributions of Nick van Huysteen, owner of Saronsberg wine estate, and former cellarmaster Dewaldt Heyns, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in the creation of the Liberi wines.
Prinsloo also commended Norman Catherine for his artistic input, which added a unique and valuable dimension to the collection. “The combination of fine art and fine wine has not only created a desirable product but also allowed us to surpass our fundraising goals,” he noted.
The impact of the Liberi initiative extends beyond the immediate financial support. It has fostered a spirit of community and collaboration, highlighting the positive role that businesses and individuals can play in addressing social issues.
The first Liberi wine, a 2018 Bordeaux blend, raised R800 000 for children’s homes in Heidelberg, Gauteng. The second edition, a 2017 Pinotage Reserve featuring art by Claudette Schreuders, contributed to the Atterbury Trust’s educational and cultural projects.
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