Since its inception in 2014, The Cape Wine Auction has garnered international recognition as a premier wine-themed charity auction, with more than R135 million raised to date in support of education in the South African winelands.
Evolving with purpose
Paul Clüver, who has been chairman of the Cape Wine Auction Trust since 2022, is keenly aware that those in charge cannot rely only on the auction’s past achievements. The event must continue to adapt to changing markets while raising the bar each year.
“We’re always exploring ways to elevate the Cape Wine Auction – from curating exceptional lots and enhancing the guest experience, to ultimately raising more funds for the children we serve. Partnering with Nederburg for the first time in 2026 marks an exciting evolution and we’re optimistic that it will help broaden the appeal and reach of the event in the event’s special 11th year,” he says.
“Nederburg brings with it a rich legacy in hosting wine auctions and has been a flag bearer for South African wine over the past 50 years. Their experience, network and brand presence – supported by Heineken Beverages – will undoubtedly help elevate the guest experience and amplify our reach to new audiences which we are pleased about.”
The 2026 auction venue and date
The 2026 Cape Wine Auction will be hosted at the historic Nederburg estate on Saturday, 7 February 2026, offering guests a day of elegance, generosity and unforgettable experiences.
Clüver is delighted with the opportunities presented by next year’s venue, which will accommodate a larger audience.
“In partnership with Heineken, we look forward to engaging with new bidders and expanding our reach. The addition of the Celebration Event – which adds a vibrant evening dimension to the auction with a music lineup headlined by MiCasa and Loyiso – further elevates the occasion, ensuring the day is marked by exceptional and memorable experiences.”
A format rooted in tradition
The Cape Wine Auction format remains true to tradition, with the morning devoted to the highly anticipated Barrel Auction, showcasing exclusive wines from South Africa’s top producers. This is followed at midday by the Experience Auction and Luncheon, where guests can bid on once-in-a-lifetime lots while enjoying an epicurean spread curated by some of the biggest names on the local culinary stage, including Reuben Riffel, Peter Tempelhoff and Pete Goffe-Wood.
The origins of the auction
The idea for the auction was conceived in 2013 when Mike Ratcliffe, owner of Vilafonté Wine Estates and former chairman of the Trust, was inspired by a trip to Auction Napa Valley in the United States.
Back in South Africa, the Cape Wine Auction was born, and a powerhouse group of trustees soon joined him. Today, the Trust includes Clüver, Raymond Ndlovu as deputy chairman, Wendy Appelbaum, Niclas Kjellström-Matseke, Sir De Villiers Graaff, Ken Forrester and Johan van Zyl, along with auction director Darielle Robertson and trust facilitator Andi Norton.
Strengthening the funding model
The trustees instituted a collaborative model for distributing auction proceeds to the 28 beneficiary organisations working in education and youth development across the winelands. This model focuses on eliminating duplication and concentrating efforts on areas of expertise.
“We all know that education can change a child’s life, but it has to be holistic. Since its inception, the Cape Wine Auction has directed every cent raised toward charities addressing educational disparities in disadvantaged rural communities. These charities also provide crucial social support, such as meals, recognising that a well-fed child is essential for effective learning.”
“My hope is that the Cape Wine Auction continues to be embraced even more widely by the wine industry and our philanthropic community, allowing us to grow the event’s scale and impact significantly over the next five years,” says Clüver.
Steering through change
Clüver took over as chairman in 2022 and admits that the post-COVID period was challenging.
“It wasn’t easy but I’m proud that we managed to keep our momentum and evolve our offerings. I’m incredibly grateful to the dedicated wine producers and buyers who continue to support the Trust. One standout at that time was the introduction of the Wine Barrel Lots, which brought the auction closer to the heart of the industry.”
One-of-a-kind 2026 auction lots
Some of the never-to-be-repeated lots for guests to bid on in 2026 include:
AdVini France – The Domaine Laroche Experience
Serve, Sip, and Celebrate: Journey’s End Wines and LTA Queen’s Tennis Experience
A seven-night stay in a Classic Collection Villa by The Hideaways Club
In Moment II – a life-size bronze by Anton Smit
Clüver adds, “There are a few incredible ones, but I must say the Seven-Night Stay in a Classic Collection Villa by The Hideaways Club caught my eye – although I suspect that it will go well beyond my budget and boost our fundraising tally.”
2026 Ticket options
Morning Barrel Auction Ticket – R3 150 per person includes:
Access to the exclusive Morning Barrel Auction
Brunch
Entry to The Celebration from 14h00
Commemorative wine glass
Two glasses of wine and two cocktails
Access to food stalls or pre-booked picnics
The Celebration Ticket – R650 per person includes:
Entry to The Celebration
Commemorative wine glass
Two glasses of wine and two cocktails
Access to food stalls or pre-booked picnics
There is also an all-inclusive Experience Ticket that offers access to a private hospitality area with food and drinks. Tickets are by invitation only. To request your invite, email Darielle Robertson at darielle@thecapewineauction.com.
Tickets are available through Webtickets.
