The Cape Wine Auction (CWA), founded in 2014, has earned international recognition as one of South Africa’s premier wine-themed charity auctions, raising more than R135 million to support education and youth development in the country’s winelands.
Since taking over as chairman of the Cape Wine Auction Trust in 2022, Paul Clüver has focused on ensuring the auction continues to evolve while building on its strong foundation. He believes the event must adapt to changing markets and consistently raise the bar to maximise its impact.
“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,” says Clüver.
Nederburg partnership marks a milestone
Partnering with Nederburg for the first time in 2026 represents a significant evolution for the auction. The historic estate will host the event on Saturday, February 7, 2026, allowing for a larger audience and expanded reach.
Nederburg’s long-standing role as a flag bearer for South African wine, supported by Heineken Beverages, is expected to enhance the guest experience and attract new bidders and supporters, strengthening the auction’s national and international appeal.
A full day of exceptional wine, food and celebration
The 2026 Cape Wine Auction will offer a full-day programme rooted in tradition while introducing new elements. The day begins with the highly anticipated Morning Barrel Auction, featuring exclusive wines from some of South Africa’s top producers.
This is followed by the Experience Auction & Luncheon, where guests bid on once-in-a-lifetime lots while enjoying a curated culinary experience by leading South African chefs, including Reuben Riffel, Peter Tempelhoff and Pete Goffe Wood.
A new addition is The Celebration Event, which brings an evening dimension to the auction with live music headlined by MiCasa and Loyiso, creating a vibrant and festive conclusion to the day.
Inspired by Napa, built for South Africa
The idea for the Cape Wine Auction was conceived in 2013 when founder Mike Ratcliffe, owner of Vilafonté Wine Estates and former chairman of the Trust, was inspired by Auction Nederburg in the United States. He established a similar model in South Africa, bringing together leaders from the wine, business and philanthropic sectors.
Today, the Trust includes a diverse group of trustees, supported by an experienced auction and facilitation team, ensuring strong governance and long-term sustainability.
A collaborative approach to education and youth development
A defining feature of the CWA is its collaborative funding model. Proceeds are distributed among 28 organisations working in education and youth development across the winelands, with a focus on reducing duplication, sharing expertise and delivering holistic support.
Funding is directed not only toward education and infrastructure but also essential social support such as nutrition, recognising that children need comprehensive care to thrive.
Building resilience and looking ahead
Clüver acknowledges that the period following his appointment in 2022 was challenging due to COVID, but says the Trust maintained momentum and introduced innovations such as Wine Barrel Lots, strengthening connections with the wine industry.
Looking ahead, his vision is for the Cape Wine Auction to grow in scale, reach and impact over the next five years, with broader support from the wine industry and philanthropic community to drive meaningful change for children in rural winelands communities.
Dining and Cooking