Thunderchild
I tasted various wines at Wacky Wine this year in Robertson, but there was only one that touched my palate & heart. The label immediately caught my eye and I fell in love with the wine when I heard the story (even before I tasted it). The wine is called Thunderchild and is made from vineyards at the Robertson Children’s Home to raise funds.
My image of a Children’s Homes as cold, unhappy places were formed by stories & films, but this all changed when I met my friend Lorraine. She lived in a children’s home for a few years of her life and still says it was the happiest years of her childhood.
The Herberg Children’s Home was established in 1918 after the flu-epidemic. It now houses 122 children ranging from babies to 18 year olds. The vineyard is next to the Home in Robertson.
Thunderchild is available at Springfield Wine Estate
I saw and tasted Thunderchild 2008 at Springfield Wine Estate. They are one of the local wine producers that made their knowledge, time & cellar facilities available for the project. The wine is a Bordeaux style blend with 37% Cabernet Franc, 37% Merlot & 26% Cabernet Sauvignon and was made using an ancient technique. Uncrushed berries are fermented with native (wild) yeast on the grapes. The wine is complex with dark berry flavours & dustiness.
In 2002 it was suggested that they replace an unproductive apricot orchard with vineyards. Equal amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot were planted in 2003 on the five hectares. The touching part of the story is that this project was launched without any costs to the Children’s home. The Robertson community and individuals from outside the town provide everything that was necessary.
This year has been particularly stormy in the Cape and I am writing this as a big storm is brewing outside. It is such a powerful force that holds so much beauty, just like the children at the Home. “Thunderchild” refers to the ability of the Herberg’s children to fight through the dark & threatening thunderclouds in their backgrounds and shine through when it is all over.
You can support these Thunderchildren.
Visit the website www.herberg.co.za or contact info@thunderchild.co.za / Tel: 023 626 3661
Thunderchild 2008
What a beautiful project!! I got goosebumps when I read about the wine. Will order some immediately. A project with a purpose!!
I agree – practical charity that works with a product of passion!
It’s such a fantastic wine!! Truly delicious!! And made with such love.
I work in the wine industry in Robertson, and can honestly say this is a community that stands together to look after each other.
The wine is also available at La Verne Wine Boutique, on the main road in Robertson. Please support the Home, the wine is delicious, and the children benefit greatly!
It is heart-warming to know that communities still look after their own!
Good to know that it is available at La Verne Wine Boutique – an easy stop on the main rd…