Meridian Adventure Sail raises R2.1 million for education-focused charitable causes in the WC

Meridian Adventure Sail was the top performing auction lot generating R2.1million in its winning bids, at the 2020 Cape Wine Auction, held in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

After the first lot attained R1.1 million, the rapid bidding continued with Meridian Adventure Sail donating a second lot consolidating further support and garnered a further R1m. Together generating the highest valued lot at the 2020 Cape Wine Auction supporting educational focused charitable causes in the Western Cape that is governed by a prestigious board of trustees that manage the Cape Wine Auction Trust.

The high value lot consisted of a seven-day ocean adventure for 8 people on a 62-ft catamaran. The all-inclusive sailing expedition by Meridian Adventure Sail - an exclusive private members club - takes guests on a voyage through the isles of Raja Ampat, Indonesia – one of the world’s most desirable, remote and pristine ocean destinations. Majestically named the ‘Four Kings’, it boasts crystal-clear waters for diving and snorkelling.

“We are very passionate about leaving a positive legacy and ultimately anything that ensures a better future for the next generation is something where we find affinity. The cause of supporting education is worthy and we are happy to provide a signature lot for the 2020 Cape Wine Auction. For us, due to our Captain, Sean Galleymore, and most of the crew being South African, supporting this felt like a natural fit,” says Askar Alshinbayev from Meridian Capital Limited, the Hong Kong based investment firm that owns Meridian Adventure.

To keep with the vinous theme of Cape Wine Auction, each guest will also enjoy a bottle of the revered 96 point (Decanter Gold) Pinot Noir from the esteemed Lothian Vineyards as a memorable vinous keepsake. Lothian’s vineyards are situated in South Africa’s Elgin Valley.

The 2020 Cape Wine Auction raised over R17 million in total and the highest contribution made was the Meridian Adventure Sail composition of two lots making up the significant R2.1 million to support education in the Cape Winelands; however the Charity was also thankful to have received a series of smaller contributions by way of donations making up just over R4 million.