A homecoming celebration: Reyneke Wines’ Cornerstone project delivers on housing promise for workers

Renowned for its commitment to quality with integrity, Reyneke Wines takes pride not only in its organic and biodynamic practices but also in the deep sense of community fostered through its’ Cornerstone project.  

Owner Johan Reyneke describes the project as honouring the ‘foundations of the house and the cornerstone of the business’ – the workers at Reyneke. “One cannot make great wine without good grapes, and there’s no way of growing good grapes without having everyone on board,” says Johan. 

The initiative was established to empower the Reyneke workers to make choices for themselves.  At the outset, when asked about their aspirations, the overwhelming response was a desire for homeownership and access to quality education for their children. 

Recently, the Cornerstone project reached a significant milestone,  delivering a new home to vineyard worker Andre Jacobs. Andre has worked at Reyneke Wines for ten years and is an experienced, highly valued member of the team. The project has also provided Reyneke workers with Momentum retirement annuities and funeral policies, bringing about a sense of financial security and independence.

Alongside housing, education has always been at the forefront of the Cornerstone project. Acknowledging the transformative power of knowledge, Reyneke Wines has provided opportunities for its workers to pursue higher education. Lizanne Jafta is a testament to the project's impact. Having completed her tertiary qualifications with the support of the Cornerstone project, Lizanne took on the role of office administrator and quickly progressed to Tasting Room Manager and Production Assistant. 

“Success is a collective journey  that requires fostering a sense of community, dignity, and shared prosperity,”  concludes Johan.