The third edition of the Liberi Wines collaboration between Eskort, Saronsberg Cellar, and acclaimed South African artist Norman Catherine has successfully raised R2 million for vulnerable children across South Africa. The funds, generated from the sale of limited edition wines, were handed over to the Beeld-Kinderfonds at a special ceremony on Monday, 9 September 2024.
The Liberi range, named after the Latin word for "children," features a 2021 Shiraz and a 2020 Chardonnay. Both wines carry bespoke labels designed by Norman Catherine, whose surrealist artwork has elevated the series into a sought-after collector’s item. A portion of the proceeds was also attributed to a selection of bottles signed by Catherine.
Adrie van Staden, chief executive of the Beeld-Kinderfonds, expressed gratitude for the significant contribution, which will be distributed to 20 child development projects, ultimately benefiting more than 8 000 underprivileged children. “South Africa has so many vulnerable children, and this money will go a long way towards unlocking their potential. We are incredibly privileged to be the beneficiary of the Liberi project,” she said.
Arnold Prinsloo, chief executive of Eskort, highlighted the importance of the collaboration and its impact on vulnerable children, noting, “The combination of fine art and fine wine is a match made in heaven. It has helped us achieve an ambitious fundraising target for the Beeld-Kinderfonds. We’re also incredibly grateful to Norman Catherine, who contributed several of his signature surrealist faces for the labels. This year’s Shiraz and Chardonnay, with these striking labels, are bound to be prized by collectors.”
The 2021 Shiraz was sold for R1,320 for a case of six bottles, while the Chardonnay was priced at R850. A limited number of bottles, signed by both Norman Catherine and Saronsberg, were sold for R2,450.
This year’s success builds on the impact of previous Liberi editions. The first, a 2018 Bordeaux blend featuring six artworks by Sam Nhlengethwa, raised R800,000 for children’s homes in Heidelberg, Gauteng. The second, a 2017 Pinotage Reserve with six lithographs by Claudette Schreuders, contributed to the Atterbury Trust, which supports educational and cultural upliftment projects.
As a long-standing partner of the Liberi project, Saronsberg Cellar is proud to continue its commitment to social responsibility through this unique initiative. Together with Eskort and South Africa’s most celebrated artists, the estate remains dedicated to supporting the country’s most vulnerable children, ensuring their access to better opportunities and a brighter future.
For more information on Saronsberg wines or to purchase the limited edition Liberi wines, please visit www.saronsberg.com or contact the estate directly.