Minor Hotels has partnered with conservation charity Saving the Wild and South Africa’s Hoopenburg Wine Estate to launch an exclusive wine collection that helps fund wildlife protection initiatives across Africa.
The new “Sip while you Save” collection includes three wines featuring endangered species that are frequently targeted by illegal poaching. A portion of proceeds from every bottle sold will support conservation programmes and efforts to strengthen wildlife protection legislation.
Three Wines, Three Endangered Species
The collection includes a Cabernet/Merlot blend, a Sauvignon Blanc and a Rosé, all produced at the award-winning Hoopenburg Wine Estate in South Africa’s Stellenbosch region.
Each bottle highlights a different endangered species through striking wildlife photography donated by internationally recognised conservation photographers.
- Rhino Cabernet/Merlot featuring photography by William Fortescue
- Elephant Sauvignon Blanc featuring photography by James Lewin
- Pangolin Rosé featuring photography by Aaron Gekoski
The labels include gold foil detailing that emphasises the body parts most commonly targeted by poachers, including rhino horns, elephant tusks and pangolin scales.
Supporting Wildlife Protection Laws
Funds raised through the initiative will support Saving the Wild’s advocacy work focused on strengthening legislation and promoting specialised wildlife crime courts across Africa.
The organisation argues that stronger legal frameworks and tougher penalties are essential to reducing poaching and protecting endangered species.
According to Saving the Wild founder Jamie Joseph, many wildlife criminals continue to receive relatively minor penalties, limiting the effectiveness of current deterrents.
“Meaningful legislative reform is critical to ending wildlife crime,” Joseph said. “This wine collection helps us raise funds for that mission while also increasing awareness among travellers and consumers.”
Conservation Stories Behind Every Bottle
Guests purchasing the wines at participating Minor Hotels properties will be able to learn more about the conservation challenges facing these species.
Each bottle includes a QR code linking to exclusive short films produced by Saving the Wild, providing insight into the organisation’s work across the continent.
Featured content includes Rhino: The Endgame, a documentary featuring renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, as well as Kimana Tuskers, a film highlighting elephant conservation efforts narrated by actor Djimon Hounsou.
Available Across Minor Hotels Africa
The conservation wine collection will be served at selected Minor Hotels properties throughout Africa, including safari lodges and luxury hotels located near some of the continent’s most important wildlife habitats.
Minor Hotels says the initiative aligns with its broader sustainability strategy and commitment to protecting the ecosystems surrounding many of its destinations.
Nico Vivier, Regional Director of Operations & Development for Minor Hotels Africa, said the company sees conservation as a shared responsibility as it continues expanding into wilderness and safari destinations across the continent.
The partnership combines hospitality, conservation and storytelling, giving guests an opportunity to contribute directly to wildlife protection efforts while enjoying locally produced South African wines.
