At Wildekrans Wine Estate, our love for animals runs as deep as our passion for crafting exceptional wines. The rolling vineyards and the tranquil beauty of our farm are not only home to vines and wines but also to the creatures we hold dear. For us, #wineforgood is about more than just making great wine. It’s about creating a haven of kindness, a sanctuary where second chances are possible. And no story embodies this more than that of Jenny and Delilah.
Jenny’s story is not an easy one to tell. It is a tale of cruelty, but ultimately, of resilience, love, and redemption. Jenny, a female donkey, was rescued from a settlement in the Cape Flats, where she had suffered an unthinkable fate. Heavily pregnant, weak, and unable to work harder, she was doused in petrol and set alight. The reason remains unknown, but the scars on her body told a story of immense pain and suffering.
Miraculously, Jenny survived. She was taken in by a kind-hearted neighbour, who gave her shelter on their farm. And in the midst of her injuries and trauma, she gave birth to a beautiful foal, Delilah. Against all odds, a new life had emerged from tragedy. But they were still in desperate need of care, safety, and a place to heal. That’s when Amanda Harlow, one of the owners of Wildekrans Wine Estate, stepped in.
Amanda welcomed Jenny and Delilah with open arms, bringing them home to Wildekrans. It was clear that they had never known comfort. They had never seen green grass before, let alone walked on it. Terrified, they hesitated, unsure of this new, unfamiliar world. But with patience, gentleness, and love, Amanda and the team slowly nursed Jenny back to health, tending to her burns and teaching both mother and baby that they were safe.
Amanda Harlow, co-owner of Wildekrans, calming Delilah down after her first encounter with grass
Over time, the fear in their eyes faded. Jenny and Delilah learned to trust again. They found family among the other animals at Wildekrans – wandering freely with the cows, finding companionship in the rescued buffalo, and basking in the warmth of kindness. The countless carrots and apples from Wildekrans guests didn’t hurt either. Today, they live their best lives in the rolling fields of Wildekrans, never to know suffering again. Jenny’s scars may never fade completely, but they serve as a testament to her strength, and to the unwavering compassion that changed her life.
This #wineforgood month, we are honoured to share Jenny and Delilah’s journey, accompanied by heartfelt images capturing their transformation. Their story is a reminder that small acts of kindness can change lives – and that selfless love, and a lot of patience truly has the power to heal.
At Wildekrans, we believe that every being deserves love and dignity, whether they have two legs or four. Jenny and Delilah’s story is a testament to the incredible resilience of animals and the profound impact of compassion.
Join us in raising a glass to Jenny, to Delilah, and to every animal who has found a second chance. Because at Wildekrans Wine Estate, wine is made with heart, and so is our home.
Left: Delilah short after her arrival at Wildekrans | Right: Delilah today
Good news stories abound in the South African Winelands. The #wineforgood campaign, launched by wine.co.za in June 2016, is all about sharing these uplifting stories. We dedicate the month of April to our #wineforgood campaign each year, sharing a good news story every day. Join us in spreading the good news about South African wine. If you'd like to submit a story, please email editor@wine.co.za.