To mark World Rhino Day on 22 September 2024, we at De Toren embarked on an initiative that reflects on Our Commitment to Conservation and Sustainability and embodies our dedication to both conservation and community. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond the vines—it extends to safeguarding the world’s most precious natural resources for generations to come. With the acknowledgement that natural resources cannot exist in isolation, we extended the patronage to conserving wildlife.
The Patronus Wine & Rhino Orphanage Collaboration
With a shared purpose in protecting the environment, we aligned our 100% Malbec wine named De Toren Patronus —an icon of our sustainability efforts—with the Rhino Orphanage, a pioneering organization committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of orphaned rhinos. For every bottle of Patronus sold from 22 September through October 2024, 10% of proceeds were donated to support this crucial work. Additionally, De Toren pledged R20,000 over and above the collected sales, further bolstering efforts to safeguard Africa’s rhino population.
A Cause We Hold Dear
The Rhino Orphanage, located in Limpopo, was the world’s first dedicated sanctuary for orphaned rhino calves. With the rhino population in alarming decline—from over 1 million in the 19th century to just 27,000 in 2020—their work has never been more important. The funds raised through our initiative go directly towards providing care, shelter, and rehabilitation for orphaned rhino calves, giving these majestic creatures a fighting chance to survive and eventually thrive in their natural, wild habitat.
The Impact of Our Initiative
We are incredibly proud to share that, thanks to the generosity of our patrons, we have raised R43202.00 through Patronus sales and additional donations. These funds will play a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned rhino calves, helping to secure the future of one of Africa’s most iconic species.
This initiative, like all our sustainability efforts, serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility we bear to protect our awe-inspiring landscapes and the rich biodiversity that have existed for millennia. The De Toren Patronus, inspired by the Latin word for “patron,” symbolizes our privileged role as guardians of the small piece of land we are entrusted to nurture through dedicated labour. As we continue to craft wines that honour this legacy, we remain deeply committed to making meaningful contributions to the preservation of our natural heritage.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported this initiative. Your choice to enjoy our wine has made a lasting impact—one bottle at a time.
