Three Springbok and Stormers rugby players are getting their hands dirty to make a contribution towards rugby development.
Scarra Ntubeni, Eben Etzebeth and Siya Kolisi have joined forces with Paarl boutique winery Mitre’s Edge, to launch a limited edition wine to raise funds for WP Rugby President’s Trust.
The initiative was started by Ntubeni after seeing many talented players not reaching their full potential.
“We want to make a difference, while we are still actively involved in the game. We are hoping that this could help in some way to assist young players and create some opportunities for them,” said Ntubeni.
“Sometimes you just need a chance to develop your rugby career further and this initiative can hopefully make a positive contribution. Although this is a relatively small project, it will start at grassroots level where transformation needs to happen,” he added.
The President’s Trust offers talented youngsters the chance to realise their potential through improving both their sporting development and schooling.
The players were actively involved in the entire winemaking process, and gained hands-on experience from the picking of grapes, to destalking, pressing and finally bottling the 2015 ES Merlot.
Following in the winemaking footsteps of other rugby legends such as Jan Boland Coetzee, Hempies du Toit and Schalk Burger, this might not be the last efforts in the cellar by this inspirational trio.
Only 500 bottles of the wine were produced, and it is presented in a three-pack box set with a bottle of Mitre’s Edge Cabernet Sauvignon and their flagship Sholto, as well as an autographed photo journal documenting the three players’ wine journey.
“It was a privilege working with these players as we believe in investing in the future of our youth. Scarra has definitely been the driving force behind the initiative, which we hope will continue to future vintages,” said winemaker Lola Nicholls.
“It is really rewarding to be part of a process which could be responsible for unearthing a future star on the rugby field.”
The box set is available for R1 000, from the Mitre’s Edge Winery, and a set can also be seen on display in the suite of WP Rugby President Thelo Wakefield at the Newlands Rugby Stadium.
For details, call 021 875 5960 or email info@mitres-edge.co.za