There are many wine farms (Estates) doing their bit for the "local community". In some circumstances this may be by taking on an organic approach, in others it may be relative to the many "hands and hearts" that work to ensure a superb final product. Then there are those that serve to enlighten us to the plight of creatures both great and small.
Recently I received some samples of "Splattered Toad" red and white.... and I am grateful I did.
This wine, from Cape Point Vineyards, may not be every one's cup of tea purely because of its extremely descriptive name and label. But there is however no denying that it truly enlightens one to the plight of the creature they represent and very often the truth is not very pleasant....
This little critter, is the highly endangered Cape (Western) Leopard Toad and for a very short time every year "lust" takes it on a journey that edges them just one step closer to extinction. For less than one week of a year (around August) our usually harmonious relationship with the "leopard" is shattered as the breeding migration sees the toad trying the negotiate busy highways and bi ways in search of favourable breeding ponds.
Now understanding the label, having enjoyed the wine and considering one rand from each bottle sold goes to helping Amietophrynus pantherinus. I am happy to say that very soon Faerie Glen Liquors and Fine Wine will be making a space for the Splattered Toad on our shelves.
