Fruits of the vine

Holy Innocents Roman Catholic Church in Orpington, London, is supporting Partnership Vineyards in South Africa. The empowerment project helps 150 farm labourers. It was founded in October 2002 by parishioner Andrew Jones his wife Branwen, both wine journalists. The owners of Riebeek Cellars, near Cape Town, helped develop their idea further. About 150 acres were purchased and the first 15 acres planted with Sauvignon Blanc vines. The labourers have become landowners and shareholders, with their holdings paid for by their farmer employers over 10 years. Holy Innocents parishioners, including South Africans Derryn and Helen Coetzee, have donated more than £3,600. The target is to raise £50,000 over the next 3 years, which will enable the entire vineyard to be planted. This will result in a 50% rise in income for the farm labourers over a 4 year period. They will also receive professional wine education from Riebeek Cellars.