What the Project Is
Lubanzi Wines | Keep on Wandering is a socially conscious wine company hailing from South Africa’s rugged and iconic Swartland. NAMED FOR A WANDERING DOG… the brand crafts fairly produced wines that punch above their weight, serving as a powerful force for good in the world. The wines are produced from some of the oldest soils in the world using wild fermentations, minimal intervention, and no additives. Lubanzi Wines began in 2014 when two friends, reflecting on an unforgettable backpacking journey along South Africa’s wild coast, discovered a curious dog called “Lubanzi” that accompanied them for 6 days and 100 miles. That chance encounter was the spark behind a venture aimed at blending a passion for wine with a sense of social impact.
Main Benefit
- B Corp Score: 102.9
- Origin: South Africa’s rugged Swartland region
- Production Style: Wild fermentations, minimal intervention, no additives
- Social Impact: 50% of profits recycled back into the communities involved in the wine’s journey
- Core Values: Equity, collaboration, and responsible business practices
Sustainable Production Techniques
Crafting wines from the mineral-rich terrains of South Africa, Lubanzi Wines is known for its commitment to fairness and sustainability. The production philosophy revolves around using natural methods,
a process that embraces minimal intervention while letting the character of some of the oldest soils shine through. The techniques combine traditional practices with a modern approach to eco-friendly winemaking – a deliberate effort to maintain purity in every bottle.
The Story Behind the Name
In a tale that feels almost cinematic, the name “Lubanzi” is steeped in adventure and serendipity. On a weeklong backpacking expedition along South Africa’s wild coast, two friends experienced an extraordinary encounter: a wandering dog, affectionately called Lubanzi by the locals, began following them during a 20-hour bus ride and 6 days of hiking. This furry companion stayed by their side for 100 miles, symbolizing loyalty and the unexpected magic of travel, before vanishing into the night. The brand’s identity is thus an homage to a chance meeting that embodies both the spirit of adventure and the importance of being open to the unpredictable moments that shape life.
Partnership for Social Impact
The principles of equity and social responsibility lie at the core of Lubanzi Wines. A notable partnership is with The Pebbles Project, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing health and education resources directly back to the families who work and live on South Africa’s wine farms. This initiative reflects the brand’s belief that business can serve as an engine for empowerment and impact, ensuring that those integral to the journey of creating every glass of wine receive their just share. The commitment underscores a responsible and equitable supply chain that goes far beyond traditional winemaking.
Local Heritage and Global Vision
Lubanzi Wines is a story of local roots enriched by a global perspective – a narrative formed by countless partnerships, long journeys, and the vibrant legacy of South Africa’s natural beauty. The project moved into a new phase in 2016 when its founders relocated to South Africa, determined to capture the essence of a land famous for its resilience and deep cultural roots. Collaborations with talented winemakers like Trizanne Barnard and Bruce Jack, along with creative partners such as Fanakalo, have been integral in producing wines that reflect both the local terroir and an international standard of excellence. Every bottle carries a message of exploration, inviting consumers to create their own adventurous moments.
Project Impact
- SDG 1: No Poverty – By reinvesting profits back into local communities.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Through initiatives that support the health of wine farm families.
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Via the educational resources provided in partnership with The Pebbles Project.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – By encouraging a more equitable supply chain in a traditionally exclusive industry.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Through sustainable, eco-friendly winemaking practices.
Embracing the Adventure
Lubanzi Wines is not just about wine; it’s about embracing an adventure that begins with a simple act of wandering and transforms into a movement towards social and environmental equity. The company’s narrative is woven with elements of chance, determination, and the enduring allure of South Africa’s landscapes. Every bottle of wine encapsulates the ethos of exploration and responsibility, inviting enthusiasts to discover new tastes while making meaningful contributions to society. With a spirit as bold as its origin story and a vision that extends from a remote corner of the world to a global stage, Lubanzi Wines continues to inspire those who believe in the power of responsible business to change lives.
