Thandi Wines, founded in 1995 in Elgin (now based at the Eerste River Cellar near Stellenbosch), was South Africa’s first agricultural Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) wine project and the first wine brand globally certified Fairtrade in 2003. Named “Thandi” from the Xhosa word meaning “nurturing love,” the estate is majority-owned (55–62%) by 147–250 farm-worker families, who participate at nearly every level—from vineyard to cellar door.
Known for its high-quality varietals—Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir—Thandi Wines blends tradition and community empowerment, redirecting profits and Fairtrade premiums toward education, healthcare, and social upliftment initiatives.
Guests may enjoy hearty farm-style meals at the on-site Farm Kitchen, with verandah seating in summer and a cozy fireplace in winter, all against the backdrop of South Africa’s beautiful wine country
