Cape Wine Auction 2026 Celebrates Record Milestone Of R152.8 Million Raised

Taking total funds raised to an extraordinary R152.8 million!

The Cape Wine Auction 2026 once again proved the power of generosity, purpose and world-class wine, raising an impressive R10.6 million at a spectacular weekend event hosted at Nederburg Wine Estate.

This latest achievement brings the total amount raised since the inaugural auction in 2014 to a remarkable R152.8 million, cementing the Cape Wine Auction’s position as one of South Africa’s most impactful and prestigious charitable events.

Commenting on the success of the twelfth edition, Cape Wine Auction Trust chairman Paul Clüver said: “This twelfth edition of the Cape Wine Auction affirmed our collective belief that this is a unique oasis of hope and inspiration for the future of the Cape Winelands. Once again, we were deeply humbled by the extraordinary generosity of our donors and the bidders whose wholehearted support made this success possible.”

The weekend unfolded as a seamless celebration of fine wine, philanthropy and unforgettable entertainment. According to Darielle Robertson, Director of The Cape Wine Auction, the energy never dipped.

“It was a very special occasion – from the Saturday morning Barrel Auction to the main Auction and The Celebration party that followed. Guests went wild for the live sets from    Mi Casa and Lloyiso and danced well into the night.”

Among the most hotly bid-on experiences of the 2026 auction were:

• The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix VIP Experience, featuring VIP Paddock Club™ access to the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026, pit lane walks, track tours, exclusive access to F1® personalities, world-class hospitality and four nights of luxury accommodation. This lot – generously donated by Heineken Beverages – was sold for R1,3 million.
• An almost two metre tall Anton Smit sculpture, titled In Moment II – a Life-Size Bronze – of a figure with arms outstretched fetched R650,000.
• Three lots comprising of a seven-night stay in a Classic Collection Villa by The Hideaways Club, with a choice of luxurious destinations across Asia, Europe or Africa, complete with a dedicated concierge service, sold for R600,000 each.
• The Côte du Cap Experience – a coastal escape for eight guests, including private flights from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay and a four-night stay at the ultra-luxurious Côte du Cap villa, complete with private chef, concierge services and sweeping 360-degree ocean views – went for R420,000

Other standout lots included a luxury escape for two couples on an exclusive four-night journey through Oregon’s famed Willamette Valley in the US (R320,000); a three-night Zambezi River escape at Thorntree River Lodge in Zambia with a hosted sommelier experience (R240,000) and the AdVini France Domaine Laroche Experience, offering the winning bidder and five guests an immersive journey into the heart of Chablis (R230,000).

Says Kate Jackson, Nederburg’s General Manager: “We are incredibly proud to have hosted the Cape Wine Auction at Nederburg and to witness the remarkable generosity that defines this event. The funds raised this year speak not only to the passion of the wine community, but to a shared commitment to creating meaningful change through education in the Cape Winelands.

“As host and partner, Nederburg remains deeply committed to supporting the auction’s purpose and ensuring it continues to grow in impact and success. It is an honour to provide a home for an initiative that so powerfully brings together wine, community and philanthropy for the greater good.”

Widely regarded as the most extraordinary international wine event hosted in South Africa, the Cape Wine Auction takes place annually, bringing together prominent wine aficionados from around the world for once-in-a-lifetime wine, travel, art and culinary experiences, all in support of education and social upliftment.

For more information, visit thecapewineauction.com.