Enjoy Spectacular Wine And Food At Great Parties While Doing Good

Wine and philanthropy go hand in hand.  Charity wine auctions achieved remarkable success in 2016 and projections look great for 2017.  The first auction listed below took place in Naples, Florida, last month and its $15 Million in proceeds bested the 2016 figure by $4 Million.  The remaining auctions are yet to come.

Several of these auctions are single-day events, while others are the centerpiece of a several day festival and some include hosting of special events throughout the year.  Multiple revenue streams are derived from ticket sales, corporate sponsorships and ancillary events as well as the silent and live auction items.  Charity wine auctions are fabulous parties offering wonderful camaraderie but the main focus of these auctions is a commitment to children as well as to local community charities.   While it’s a shame to miss the rousing action, many of these auctions also offer online as well as mobile bidding.  Charity wine auctions offer great opportunities to meet vintners, discover new wines, taste rare and/or difficult to find wines, acquire fantastic bottles of wine while benefitting worthy causes, meet new friends, bid on unique lots and travel fantasies, make a vacation out of it.  There are numerous multi-day food and wine festivals throughout the country, supported by vintners all over the world, that combine a great location with a spectacular assortment of food, wine and fun.  Charity wine auctions enable everyday wine enthusiasts, as well as connoisseurs and collectors, to expand their cellars, obtaining highly sought after bottles.  Generous wineries often donate unreleased bottles also and travel companies donate trips, tours and tastings for priceless experiences.  Ticket prices and winning bids are generally in part tax-deductible.

Following is a chronological listing of a number of America’s top charity wine auctions, including some of our favorite events, scheduled throughout 2017.  Following this is detailed descriptions of the auctions, with their 2016 proceeds and plans for this year’s festivities.

Naples Winter Wine Festival, 17th Annual – January 27-29, Naples, Florida

Southwest Wine & Food Festival, 8th Annual – February 24-25, South Fort Myers, Florida

Classic Wines Auction, 33rd Annual – Saturday, March 4, Portland, Oregon

Destin Charity Wine Auction, 12th Annual – April 28-30, Destin, Florida

A Culinary Evening With The California Winemasters, 28th Annual – Saturday, May 20, Burbank, California

Silicon Valley Wine Auction, 3rd Annual, May 20-21, Runnymede Sculpture Farm, Woodside, California

Auction Napa Valley, 37th Annual – June 2-4, Napa Valley, California

Vintage Affaire, 35th Annual – Saturday, July 15, Atherton, California

Jackson Hole Wine Auction And Gala, 23rd Annual – June 23-25, Jackson, Wyoming

Sun Valley Wine Auction, 36th Annual, July 20-22, Sun Valley, Idaho

L’Ete du Vin, 38th Annual – July 20-22, Nashville, Tennessee

V Wine Celebration, 19th Annual – August 4-6, Napa, California

Central Coast Wine Classic, 32nd Annual – August 25-27, Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Pismo Beach, California

Auction of Washington Wines, 30th Annual – August 17-19, Woodinville, Washington

Auction of Washington Wines, 30th Annual – August 17-19, Woodinville, Washington

St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Summer Classic, 8th Annual – Saturday, August 26, Los Olivos, California

Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction, 25th Annual – September 16, Sonoma Valley, California

Detroit International Wine Auction, 36th Annual – Saturday, October 21, Detroit, Michigan

Rusty Staub Wine Auction, 26th Annual – October 18, New York, New York

Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic, 27th Annual – November 10-13, Virginia Beach, Virginia

 

 The 27th Annual Culinary Evening With The California Winemasters Raised Over $1.6 Million In 2016 For The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation hosted “A Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters” on May 14 on the historic “Midwest Street” backlot at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California.  Fourteen hundred wine and food lovers from all across the country attended the event, raising their glasses simultaneously at the start of the live program to toast a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.  The event raised over $1.6 Million, bringing the total dollars raised for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s vital research and care centers since the event’s inception to more than $28 Million.

Guests enjoyed fabulous wining and dining under the stars in the setting of a quintessential Any Town USA, always a sold-out extravaganza.  Throughout the exciting, magical evening, attendees delighted in a dazzling sampling of gourmet cuisine from over 50 internationally renowned, celebrity chefs, paired with wines from over 75 of California’s most talented winemakers, while participating in silent and live auctions.  Extraordinary items offered for bidding included over 800 rare collector wines, lifestyle experiences and travel fantasies.  From 5 pm to 8 pm, guests strolled along the charming, tree-lined streets of Warner Bros. largest backlot, sipping wine, tasting gourmet food and bidding on over 600 items in the silent auction. The L.A. Allstars Band performed high energy sets on the main stage.  The rousing live auction, led by Auctioneer Dawnmarie Kotsonis, began at 8 pm.  Fritz Coleman, NBC’s Weathercaster, was the Celebrity Co-Auctioneer and Paul Frank, Founder of Gemstone Vineyard was the Honorary Guest Auctioneer.

The 2016 event was another extravagant auction.  The live auction included an “Insider’s Perspective of the Napa Valley with the Mondavi Family” that sold for $20,000 and included luxury accommodations for two couples, meals, tasting and a wine collection.  A 2-week wine tasting holiday to Argentina with visits to major wineries and a side trip to Patagonia sold for $25,000 and “Simply Inspirational – South Africa and Tanzania” was purchased for $20,000.  The bidding for an 8-day all luxury trip to Turkey including a cruise and visit to Turkey’s growing wine region had a winning bid of $22,000; and a dinner of wining and dining at Ackerman Heritage House in Napa sold for $10,000.  Live auction wine lots included a Reserve Collection of Pride Mountain Vineyards Cabernets that sold for $10,000, a 6-liter of 2014 Ridge Monte Bello with a sale price of $11,000, and a 24-bottle horizontal collection of 1996 California Cabernet Sauvignons was snatched up for $14,000.  A case of the finest Bordeaux from 1986 sold for $15,000.

Special Patron Packages include Diamond Patron Table of 12 at $10,000; Platinum Patron Package for eight guests at $7,500; Gold Patron Package at $5,000 per couple; and Silver Patron Package at $2,500 per couple.  Individual Premier Tickets (offering valet parking and early entrance) are $500 and Individual Tickets are $375.

Winemasters is one of the most important CFF fundraisers in the U.S. and one of the largest single-day charity wine auctions in the world.  It is perennially one of Wine Spectator magazine’s “Top Ten U.S. Charity Wine Auctions.”  Barbara Balik, Auction organizer and Director of Special Giving, says it is thanks to new treatments that people with cystic fibrosis are now living one year longer for every year of research.  Sponsors, vintners, chefs and guests understand their support is the reason for this lifesaving reprieve.  According to founding sponsor and Co-Chairman, Allen Balik, the event is a unique gourmet experience, offering something for everyone, and it is a particularly worthwhile charity event in that 91 cents of every dollar raised goes directly into Cystic Fibrosis research and cure programs, making this the highest percentage of any non-profit organization in the country.

The 28th Annual Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters is set for Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank.  Honorary Culinary Chairman from Hitching Post II is Frank Ostini and Honorary Wine Chairmen are the Families of Patz & Hall.  Please contact Barbara Balik for further information and registration: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, telephone 323-939-0758 or Barbara Balik, telephone 707-258-1661, email bbalik@cff.org.  For additional information on wineries, chefs and restaurants, tickets and special patron packages, please see the California Winemasters website: www.californiawinemasters.org.

The 17th Annual Naples Winter Wine Festival Held In January 2017 Raised More than $15 Million for Children in Need

Since its inception in 2001, the always exquisite Naples Winter Wine Festival has raised over $161 Million for underprivileged and at-risk children in Collier County.  The 17th Annual Wine Festival, the nation’s largest charity wine auction, a 4-day gala that took place January 27-29 at The Ritz Carlton Golf Resort in picturesque Naples, Florida, raised more than $15 Million, above 2016’s $11 Million.  The Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), the Naples Winter Wine Festival’s founding organization, has delivered grants to more than 40 non-profit organizations in its 16-year history, benefitting more than 2,000,000 local children.

The live auction’s top single bid of $480,000 went for a 2017 McLaren 570GT sports car.  Other high selling lots of the 62 luxury experiences were a football focused lot – a weekend in Napa with San Francisco 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo and several Hall of Famers including Joe Montana and Steve Young among others; several cocktail parties with Hollywood celebrities, and a trip to Italy’s Amalfi coast.  Auctioneers were Humphrey Butler, Ann Colgin and Ursula Hermacinski.  Wolfgang Puck was the Chef de Cuisine.

Ticket packages for the 18th Annual Naples Winter Wine Festival in 2018, go for $10,000 per couple.  For information, telephone Barrett Farmer 239-514-2239, 888-837-4919, email barrett@napleswinefestival.com or visit www.napleswinefestival.

The 7th Annual Southwest Wine & Food Fest Held in 2016 Raised Over $2.8 Million to Benefit Pediatric Health Care

SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc.’s 2016 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest has raised more than $2.8 Million, with 100 percent of the proceeds directly benefitting pediatric health care in Southwest Florida.  The 2-day event, February 26-27, 2016, took place at Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club in the South Fort Myers area.

The highest single bid at the live auction was $140,000 for the Cliff Williams and Mark Loren lot, featuring a signed bass guitar played by Cliff Williams, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, and a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry of a guitar pick pendant adorned with diamonds and gems, suspended from an original Williams’ bass guitar string, created by international award-winning custom jewelry designer, Mark Loren.  An exclusive 4-night trip for 4 people to the Bahamas to enjoy a round of golf and day of fishing with Justin Rose, the 2013 U.S. Open Champion and current #7 world-ranked professional golfer went for $100,000.

2017 Vintner Dinners scheduled for Friday include Madrone Cellars, Williams Selyem Winery, Staglin Family Vineyards, St. Helena Winery, Fisher Vineyards, Continuum by Tim Mondavi.  The Grand Tasting and Live Auction take place on Saturday.  In addition to international vacations, wine country getaways, special wines and dinners, there are several unique lots: a special visit to the 2017 Masters Golf Tournament, an invitation to the Country Music Awards in Nashville, a 2-year lease of a 2017 Jaguar and a golf date with Michael Phelps.

For information about SWFL Children’s Charities Inc. or its annual signature fundraiser, the 8th Annual Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest scheduled for February 24-25 this year, visit www.swflwinefest.org.

 

The 32nd Annual Classic Wines Auction In Portland, Oregon Raised Over $3 Million In 2016 To Benefit Oregon Families In Need

The Classic Wines Auction (CWA) has raised nearly $40 Million for Portland-area charities supporting children and families since 1982.  The 2016 auction and other related events raised more than $3 Million for its 6 benefiting charities.

The gala signature event, held in the Oregon Convention Center’s Portland Ballroom, on March 5, began with a wine tasting reception, followed by a 5-course culinary fest prepared by top guest chefs and paired with wines from national and international ambassadors.  About 850 wine enthusiasts then bid on over 250 live and silent packages being auctioned.  Night Cap is the After Party featuring a live DJ, dancing and other entertainment.

In addition to the auction, throughout the year, there are special tastings, luncheons and dinners, winemaker dinners in the Fall and Spring, a Walla Walla Wine Tasting, and Corks and Forks, a huge wine and food event in June, sponsored by local wineries and restaurants.  Special patron packages are available offering the various events at a discount.

For information on the 33rd Annual Classic Wines Auction to be held Saturday, March 4, 2017, telephone 503-972-0194, email info@classicwinesauction.com or visit their website:  www.classicwinesauction.com.

 

The 11th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction in 2016 Raised More Than $2.65 Million For Children In Need In Northwest Florida

Now in its 11th year, Destin Charity has raised over $10 Million for local children’s charities in Northwest Florida.  Taking place at Miramar Beach, the auction is the flagship for three days of wine and fun filled events featuring wine tastings and private dinners, culminating with a live and silent auction.  The auction, raising a record-breaking $2.65 Million, featured over 200 lots of rare wines and wine-oriented trips.  The white sand beaches of Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast offer a picture perfect setting.

The 2016 Honorary Vintner was Ric Forman of Forman Vineyard and the International Honorary Vintner was Cristina Mariani-May of Castello Banfi.  The weekend kicked off with 14 intimate Patron dinners.  Saturday was the Reserve Tasting and Auction at Sandestin Town Center’s North Lawn in Miramar Beach.  Sunday the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is also at Sandestin Town Center.  Not only does this Festival in its fourth year draw more people to the area for the auction but the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is the recipient of the proceeds generated from the Festival.

The 12th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction, scheduled for April 28-30, will feature Stacy and Greg Lill of DeLille Cellars as Honorary Domestic Vintner and Marchesi Antinori as Honorary International Vintner.

For more information about the 5th Annual South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, and to obtain tickets, visit: www.sowalwine.com.  For more information about the 12th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction, telephone 850-650-3732, email info@dcwaf.org or visit: www.dcwaf.org.

 

The 2nd Annual Silicon Valley Wine Auction in 2016 Raised Over $700,000 For Education

The 2nd Annual Silicon Valley Wine Auction held Saturday, April 16 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, raised over $700,000 for education programs of the Silicon Valley Education Foundation and the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association.  More than 700 guests enjoyed premium local wines poured by over 40 vintners and fabulous silent auction lots at the Grand Wine Tasting in Levi’s 501 Club.  The evening VIP reception, Wine Pairing Dinner and Live Auction in the stadium’s elegant Brocade Club hosted 350 guests, who enjoyed a 5-course dinner paired with Santa Cruz Mountain wines.

The Silicon Valley Wine Auction is a great way to find out more about a “best kept secret” – the wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  It showcases the excellent high quality winemaking taking place in the Silicon Valley area while funding education in order to advance innovators and mavericks in the valley.  The success of the first two years was astounding for a brand-new fundraiser.  In just two years, the Silicon Valley Wine Auction has raised over $2 Million to benefit students in the local communities.

Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) is a non-profit resource and advocate for students and educators, focusing on scholastic achievements in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in order to make Silicon Valley the leader in academically prepared students.  The Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association (SCMWA) is an alliance of more than 70 wineries promoting wines produced from the Santa Cruz Mountains Viticultural Appellation.

For 2017, the Silicon Valley Wine Auction will be held at Runnymede Sculpture Farm in Woodside, an open-air collection of contemporary sculpture.  A weekend of celebration, wine and philanthropy will take place May 20-21 on the Farm’s 120 acres of hills, creeks, fields, forests and trails of this Peninsula site.  Purchased in 1930 by Alma Spreckels Rosekrans as a home for her jumper horses, Runnymede is a product of John and Dodie Rosekrans’ passion for modern 3-dimensional art.  This private family retreat is only open to the public for special events.

The 3rd Annual Silicon Valley Wine Auction brings together over 100 of Santa Cruz Mountains top winemakers and growers, along with Silicon Valley leaders, all committed to children, community and the future.  The Wine Dinner and Live Auction will be held on Saturday, May 20 at Runnymede Sculpture Farm (tickets are $2,500/couple).  The Grand Wine Tasting takes place on Sunday at the Farm (tickets $75-145).

In January of this year, Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Education Foundation (SCMWEF) was launched, a charitable umbrella under which SCMWA conducts its philanthropic work.  The Foundation works with community-based organizations to provide resources and support to benefit educational and research programs for children in Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties, the premier fundraising event of which is the Silicon Valley Wine Auction.

For more information about the 3rd Annual Silicon Valley Wine Auction scheduled for May 20-21 at Runnymede Sculpture Farm, Woodside, telephone Keikilani McKey 831-685-8463, email keiki@scmwa.com, or visit www.siliconvalleywineauction.org.

 

The 36th Annual Auction Napa Valley Raised Over $14.3 Million in 2016 For Community Health and Children’s Education

Close to 900 guests filled the grounds at Meadowood in Napa Valley where lively and generous bidding raised more than $14.3 Million for the non-profit charities that provide community health and children’s education to Napa Valley residents.  The country’s premier and most celebrated charity wine auction, hosted by the Napa Valley Vintners Association, is one of the largest charity wine auctions in the world, rivaling the Naples, Florida wine auction and the Hospice de Beaune in Burgundy, France.  To date, Auction Napa Valley has invested over $150 Million in Napa County non-profit organizations, benefiting over 100,000 clients since the event started in 1981.

The Auction at Meadowood Resort was the focal point of an exciting weekend of a barrel auction, private dinners and special wine tastings held throughout the Valley.  The rousing live auction gaveled by renowned auctioneer and vintner, Fritz Hatton and accompanied by a 30-piece Cuban band, contributed to Auction Napa Valley’s retention of the top spot for America’s charity wine auctions.  Agustin F. Huneeus of Quintessa was the Honorary Auction Chair.  The Napa Valley Barrel Auction held at Robert Mondavi Winery was attended by nearly 2000 people.

The 37th Annual Auction Napa Valley will offer three glitzy days of wine, food and festivities from June 2-4.   For information regarding Auction Napa Valley, call 707-963-3388; email reception2@napavintners.com or visit www.napavintners.com.

 

 The 34th Annual Vintage Affaire Took Place On Saturday, June 18, 2016 In Atherton, California

Vintage Affaire, one of the premier wine auctions in California, an elegant party with fine wines, gourmet cuisine, live music and one-of-a-kind auction items took place on Saturday, June 18, at a gorgeous home in Atherton.  Always a wonderful affair to remember, it is one of the largest wine and destination auctions in California benefitting Palo Alto’s Vista Center.

Over the past 30 years, Vintage Affaire has raised well over $8 Million for Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Palo Alto.  These funds enable Vista Center clients to achieve their highest potential through programs that promote independence and improve the quality of life, including the low vision clinic and rehabilitation services such as counseling, orientation and mobility training, living skills instruction and more.  The event is organized by the nonprofit Vista Center Foundation Board of Directors and is staffed entirely by community volunteers.  Pam Brandin is Executive Director of Vista Center.  Event Chairs of this year’s Vintage Affaire were Elizabeth Lucchesi and Kathryn Ladra.

The auction included wine lots from hard-to-find California vintages, First Growth French Bordeaux, Burgundy, Vintage Ports, Champagne, and emerging vineyards from Down Under.  In addition, novelty lots offered tours and tasting events, as well as overnight stays at Napa and Sonoma vineyards, and wine country dinners in Napa, Sonoma, San Francisco and on the Peninsula, global travel, unique jewelry and art.  Among the new events this year was a 40th Anniversary of The Judgment of Paris at a special party hosted by renowned auctioneer and vintner, Fritz Hatton in Atherton featuring wines from the winning vineyards of California and France.  The Oldies But Goodies Party featured rare, highly collectible wines from the cellars of the late Bill Walsh and other donors, all beautifully curated wines from the cellars of renowned collectors.  The event was hosted by Master Sommelier Bob Bath offering expert guidance as attendees tasted the vinous treasures. Another exciting new event was An Evening With “Poker Brat” Phil Hellmuth, 14-time World Series of Poker champion.

A select group of vintners joins Vintage Affaire each year to share their wonderful wines.  Many also offer special auction items.  Outstanding local chefs contribute their talents to Vintage Affaire with special food and wine pairings to be featured during the silent auction.  The 2015 Vintage Affaire, chaired by Terry Kurfess, was a spectacular event at Mike Murphy’s beautiful estate in Atherton, which was the site of the 2016 event also.  Renowned auctioneer and vintner, Fritz Hatton, was the auctioneer for the 28th time.

Vintage Affaire 2017, scheduled to take place Saturday, July 15 in Atherton, will include the unique luxury items and wonderful fine wines offered each year.  The event offers two tiers of tickets, both of which support Vista Center. Guest Level tickets will enjoy the Silent and Live Auctions, wine tasting from Pouring Vintners, hors d’oeuvres from Guest Chefs, and a wine pairing dinner.  Patron Level guests will enjoy all of the Guest Level perks, plus an exclusive invitation to the spectacular Vintage Evening.

For more information and registration for the 35th Annual Vintage Affaire, please contact Vista Center at 650-858-0202 or visit the website, www.vintageaffaire.org for additional information, including a list of vintners, chefs, unique auction items and tickets.

The 22nd Annual Jackson Hole Wine Auction and Gala Occurred June 23-25, 2016 at Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Wine Auction is the preeminent charity wine auction and one of the premier food and wine events of the West.  Each summer, the annual 3-day fundraiser kicks off seven weeks of classical music from the Grand Teton Music Festival.  The fabulous event featured great food from world-renowned chefs and wine from world-class vintners for the special tastings, festive parties, private dinners and incredible auction opportunities.  Proceeds from this ultimate celebration of food, wine and philanthropy have raised millions since its inception for the continued enrichment of the cultural fabric of Jackson through the Grand Teton Music Festival.

The centerpiece of the weekend’s festivities took place on a Wyoming Ranch in the shadow of the Grand Tetons.  The festivities began with the Grand Wine Tasting.  Then a new event, the VIP Wine Tasting, was held at one of Jackson Hole’s newer restaurants, Piste Mountain Bistro, followed by the Taste of Jackson Hole, which took place at the top of Rendezvous Mountain in Teton Village.  Guests arrived by gondola to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s stunning Couloir Restaurant.  Various Signature Private Dinners were held in local homes.  The signature event, the Wine Auction and Gala Dinner began with a silent auction, accompanied by fabulous wines and hors d’oeuvres.  Renowned auctioneer and vintner, Fritz Hatton led the spirited live auction during an elegant, 5-course dinner.  The evening concluded with music and dancing by moonlight.   Each year, there is a special guest Wine Moderator.  The event’s Culinary Director is famed restaurateur of the Myriad Restaurant Group, Drew Nieporent.

Given the spectacular pristine mountain setting with the backdrop of the majestic Grand Tetons, this is a “Don’t Miss” wine event every year.  Tickets are available as a full weekend package ($2,050) or a la carte.

For information regarding the 23rd Annual Jackson Hole Wine Auction and Gala scheduled for June 22-24 and ticket purchase, telephone 307-732-9965, 307-732-9961, email haynes@gtmf.org or visit: www.jhwineauction.org.

The 35th Annual Sun Valley Wine Auction Held July 21-23, 2016, in Sun Valley, Idaho, Raised $1.9 Million

Enjoy Summer in the mountains experiencing breathtaking beauty of the surroundings while tasting spectacular wines paired with food from world-class chefs, exclusive Vintner Dinners, Auction Gala and Wine Tasting and Vine and Dine.  Over 1800 attendees delighted in three days of wine, food and friendship.  The Wine Auction, which raised $1.9 Million, sustains Sun Valley Center’s year-round arts and educational programs for adults, youth and families to enrich the community.

The Wine Auction Gala took place in Dollar Mountain Lodge Tent, featuring wines, food and live entertainment.  Vine and Dine is a lawn party with wines, tapas, live music and dancing at the Dollar Mountain Lodge.  Vintner dinners are hosted in exquisite private homes.  Event tickets and packages ranged from $40 to $2,500.

For information regarding the 36th Annual Sun Valley Wine Auction to be held July 20-22 and ticket purchase, telephone 208-726-9491, email Wine Auction Director Callan Miranda, wineauction@sunvalleycenter.org, or visit the website: www.sunvalleycenter.org/wineauction.

 

 The 37th Annual L’Ete du Vin Held July 28-30, 2016 In Nashville, Tennessee Raised A Record-Breaking $930,000

L’Ete du Vin (A Summer of Wine), which takes place annually in Nashville, included tasting events of fine wine accompanied by intimate gourmet dinners and luxury items up for bid at silent and live auctions, with proceeds benefiting various organizations dedicated to fighting  cancer.  As the country’s longest running charity wine auctions, L’Ete du Vin brings together Nashville’s finest collectors and wine enthusiasts while raising funds for the fight against cancer.

The event, which took place over three days with special tastings and dinners, was attended by 695 people. Additional events of the Nashville Wine Auction in February and two wine tastings in October, brought the total to well over $1 Million.

The signature event, the Grand Auction, was held at Loew’s Vanderbilt Hotel.  Noted vintner and auctioneer Fritz Hatton gaveled the bidding.  Established in 1980, the Nashville Wine Auction has raised over $20 Million for organizations whose purpose is directly related to treatment, patient care, and eradication of cancer in Middle Tennessee.

The 37th Annual L’Ete du Vin honored the legendary Italian wine estate, GAJA, represented by Gaia Gaja, daughter of Angelo Gaja and the winery’s top ambassador.  The Nashville Wine Auction also hosted the Ultimate Food & Wine Weekend in February, the Grand Cru Evening in July, Vintners’ Tasting at Richland Country Club, Patrons’ Dinner at The Hermitage Hotel, as well as the Grand Auction at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, and two events in October, Champagne and Chardonnay for the Ladies and a Dinner for the Men, with cocktails and wines.

The 38th Annual L’Ete du Vin is slated for July 20-22.  Pairings, the Ultimate Food & Wine Weekend kick off the events for 2017 February 23-25.  The Grand Cru Evening takes place June 21.  The auction weekend begins with the Vintners’ Tasting on July 20, followed by the Patrons’ Dinner July 21 and the Grand Auction at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel on July 22.  In October, there will be two events: Champagne and Chardonnay, A Sparkling Evening for Ladies and The Men’s Event Honoring the Life and Spirit of Billy Ray Hearn, both on October 5.

Please contact L’Ete du Vin for further information and registration for the 37th Annual event, email: info@nashvillewineauction.com; Telephone: 615-329-1760; Fax: 615-329-1704; L’Ete du Vin website: www.nashvillewineauction.com.

The 18th Annual V Wine Celebration Took Place August 4-7 In Napa Valley Raising $5.2 Million

The V Wine Celebration is a world-class wine event and auction benefiting The V Foundation for Cancer Research.  Set in Napa Valley, the heart of California Wine Country, this annual event brings together 500 prominent members of the sports, entertainment, technology, investment, medical and winemaking worlds to raise money to fund vital research in the fight against all types of cancer.  To date, the V Wine Celebration, raising over $73 Million since its first event in 1999, has helped fund 600 research programs at medical and research facilities across the country.

Experience three days with the best culinary adventures, the most sought-after wines, exciting musical performances, thought-provoking panels, highly coveted auction experiences, and the chance to meet amazing people who are joining the same fight: to find cures for cancer.  Featured guest speaker this year was football legend and sportscaster, Joe Theismann, a close friend of Jimmy Valvano.  Special musical guest was Don Felder, Grammy Award Winning Eagles guitarist.

Last year, The V Foundation for Cancer Research’s annual fundraiser, the V Wine Celebration, garnered more than $10.6 Million for cancer research.  The gala dinner and live auction were held at Nickel & Nickel Winery.  With an unprecedented $3 Million matching grant from an anonymous donor, the total included more than $7.8 Million in fund-a-need donations to support pediatric brain cancer research.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jimmy Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and ESPN commentator.  Since then, the foundation has funded more than $130 Million in cancer research grants nationwide.  One hundred percent of the net proceeds from this event directly support the work of The V Foundation.

For information about the 2017 V Wine Celebration August 5-7, call 707-963-0611 or visit www.winecelebration.org.

 

The 31st Annual Central Coast Wine Classic Occurred August 10-14, At Venues From San Simeon To Santa Barbara

Since the creation of the Central Coast Wine Classic Foundation in 2004, it has conferred over $2.5 Million to 125 Central Coast non-profits whose missions are in the Healing, Studio or Performing Arts.  From the initial Wine Classic year, 1985, it has been promoting the wineries of California, the reputations of the terroirs from Santa Barbara County north through the entire Central Coast appellation and into Napa and Sonoma counties.  The Classic’s positive relationships with wineries outside the United States has included the terroirs of Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, South Africa and Spain.  The future themes and activities that manifest those themes will continue to focus on areas and venues both inside and outside of California.

There was no Central Coast Wine Classic in 2015.  According to event Founder and Chairman, Archie McLaren, he, their Board of Directors, Vintner Committee and Advisory Committee, decided to take a hiatus and develop new concepts regarding theme and scope for the Wine Classic in 2016.

The Wine Classic kicked off on Wednesday afternoon with a Barrel Tasting and Barrel Auction at Greengate Ranch & Vineyard in the Edna Valley.  That evening, Greengate Ranch & Vineyard hosted a Winemaker Dinner and Dance.  A Winemaker Dinner with Justin Baldwin was held at the Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa.

The next day, attendees had a choice between a Vineyard Tour, Tasting and Luncheon at Tablas Creek Vineyard and Winery in Paso Robles or a Paso Robles Bordeaux Varietal Symposium and Luncheon in the Caves at Eberle Winery.  Thursday evening, the always sold-out, magical evening under the stars at Hearst Castle, featured a Roederer Champagne Reception and 5-course gourmet meal prepared by renowned chefs, Christophe Eme and Laurent Quenioux, assisted by the Wine Classic’s family of chefs including Michael Hutchings, James Sly and James Siao.

Friday featured Vineyard Tours and Tastings in Edna and Arroyo Grande Valleys including Tolosa Winery, Wolff Vineyards and Talley Vineyards & Winery.  Richard Sanford of Alma Rosa Winery hosted a Santa Rita Hills Tour, Tasting and Luncheon.  That afternoon, a Symposium of Santa Barbara Chardonnay and Pinot Noir was held at The Santa Barbara Wine Collective in The Funk Zone and a Central Coast Pinot Noir Symposium took place at the Santa Barbara Inn.  Friday evening a very special Rare Wine Dinner hosted by Dr. Blake Brown, Don Schliff, John Tilson and Archie McLaren was held at the historic Santa Barbara Club.  A Winemaker Dinner with Fred Brander and Bob Lindquist took place at the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse and another Winemaker Dinner with Bryan Babcock and Bion Rice was held on The Channel Cat anchored in the Santa Barbara harbor.

Saturday morning at Patrick Nesbitt’s Bella Vista Ranch and Polo Estate in Summerland featured a Symposium of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and a Vintage Champagne & Caviar Symposium. Also in the morning, there was an Auction Preview & Super Silent Auction & Exotic Automobile Display.  The flagship event of the Wine Classic occurred that afternoon in Summerland, with the Rare & Fine Wine & Lifestyle Live Auction, Silent Auction and Luncheon, hosted by Culinary Icon Narsai David and Event Founder & Chairman Archie McLaren.  Luncheon was prepared by renowned Chefs Frank Ostini of the Buellton Hitching Post and Rick Manson.

On Sunday, the Wine Classic’s finale was an Australian Wine Symposium with Mollydooker at the Santa Barbara Inn and a VIP Champagne Louis Roederer & Black River Caviar Departure Brunch at Stella Mare’s French Country restaurant situated between Montecito and the Pacific Ocean.

In the past, the Auction has hit the $1 Million mark and, with these new plans and concepts, it is anticipated that it will do so again, continuing the event’s positive momentum into the future.  The Wine Classic is one of the most educational charity wine auction weeks in America thanks to its consistently comprehensive schedule.

The 32nd Annual Central Coast Wine Classic is scheduled for August 25-27, 2017.  Venues will include Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley Wine Country, San Luis Obispo County Airport, Pismo Beach, Shell Beach and Avila Beach.  This will be a very special, not-to-be-missed Wine Classic, featuring a celebration of event Founder and Chairman, Archie McLaren’s 75th birthday.  While the celebration of Archie’s birthday will take place from the beginning of the Wine Classic on Friday, extending through Sunday, a special dinner will be held Saturday evening at Olde Port Inn on Port San Luis Pier.  The special wine provided for the birthday dinner will be a gift to attendees from the Wine Classic and from Archie.  Winery Dinners will be held at Talley Vineyards & Winery in the Arroyo Grande Valley and Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in Pismo Beach.  The Rare & Fine Wine & Lifestyle Auction, Super Silent & Live Auction Preview will take place at ACI Jet Services Hangar at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, San Luis Obispo.  A VIP Departure Brunch, offering Champagne and Caviar, will occur at Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa.

Please contact Archie McLaren for further information and registration – email: archie.wineclassic@gmail.com; telephone: 805-878-3124; fax: 805-595-2742; Wine Classic website: www.centralcoastwineclassic.org.

 

The 29th Annual Auction of Washington Wines Took Place August 18-20, 2016 in Woodinville, Washington, Raising Over $3 Million
For Children And Viticulture And Enology Programs

During the action-packed weekend of August 18-20 in Woodinville, the 29th Annual Auction of Washington Wines raised more than $3 Million, including $1.9 Million in live bids.  Created in 1988 by Allen Shoup, a former CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, the auction benefits the Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Viticulture and Enology program at Washington State University.  The event has raised over $37.5 Million since its inception.

The Picnic & Barrel Auction kicked things off at Chateau Ste. Michelle on Thursday afternoon.  Friday a Private Barrel Auction was held at Chateau Ste. Michelle.  That evening five winemaker dinners took place at private estates around Puget Sound.  On Saturday Columbia Winery staged a Charity Run & Walk in Woodinville.  The Winemaker Gala Auction event was held Saturday night at Chateau Ste. Michelle.  The Washington Wine Auction also included an earlier event held in June, a Wine & Music Festival at Washington State University.

For information about the 30th Annual Auction of Washington Wines, scheduled for August 17-19, telephone 206-326-5770 or visit the website:  aww@washingtonwine.org.

 

St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church 7th Annual Summer Classic Was Held Saturday, August 27th In Los Olivos, California

St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church held its 7th annual charity wine auction, Summer Classic, An Auction of Fine Wines and Unique Lifestyle Experiences on Saturday, August 27 in Los Olivos in the Santa Ynez Valley.  The wine auction, which took place at St. Mark’s, began at 6 pm with a social hour and silent auction, followed by a live auction and gala dinner, with entertainment.  Church pews were removed for the night so guests enjoyed a candlelight meal in the sanctuary.  The gourmet dinner was prepared by New West Catering Company.  Grammy Award-wining musician Mads Tolling with Colin Hogan entertained 220 dinner guests.  A limited number of tickets were offered for $200 each.

The Classic has been very successful, with each year’s fundraising surpassing that of previous years.  Revenue from the auction, according to The Rev. Dr. Randall Day,  allows the Church to continue to serve not only their Episcopal congregation but also to function as a meeting place for more than 60 local groups who come to access space, at no cost to them, including the area’s Jewish congregation, Food Bank, Valley Community Theatre and recovery groups, as well as to provide art, music and educational programs and to help fund other non-profits.   St. Mark’s preschool provides top-flight early childhood education.

C0-chairs this year were Carol Anders and James Lohnas.  Renowned Auctioneer John Glines led the live bidding, working with Andrew Firestone as emcee.  The exciting, new lifestyle packages included a week’s stay in the Adirondack, a Downton Abbey Christmas Celebration at Clos Pepe Vineyards, a Cocktail Party for 40 at your home, and much more.

For information about the 8th Annual 2017 Summer Classic, visit www.SMITV.org.

The 24th Annual Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction Took Place September 2-4 In Sonoma Valley, California, Raising $4.6 Million

The Harvest Wine Auction is the signature event of Sonoma Wine Country Weekend held each year in September, sponsored by Sonoma County Vintners and Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers.  Last year’s Harvest Wine Auction, held at Chateau St. Jean Winery in Kenwood with a lavish Moroccan theme, “From Sonoma to Marrakesh,” featured belly dancers, a camel and a Moroccan style market.  The auction shattered records, raising $4.6 Million supporting Sonoma County’s youth, children, students, farm workers and people in need, all in the effort to make this world class region a better place.  Weekend gross for 2016 was $5.7 Million.

Sonoma Wine Country Weekend enjoys laid back, end of summer ambiance while mingling with top winemakers, sharing their finest wines, all paired with gourmet cuisine of featured chefs from Sonoma County restaurants. Sonoma Starlight is an evening of dinner and dancing under the stars, poolside at Francis Ford Coppola’s winery in Geyserville.  Taste of Sonoma at MacMurray Estate Vineyards in Healdsburg featured food from about 60 local chefs and wines from close to 200 wineries.  Other events included lunches, dinners, seminars, cooking demonstrations and barbecues occurring all weekend long.  Honorary chair of the Harvest Wine Auction was Dan Kosta of Kosta Browne Winery.

Over $224 Million has been raised to date for charities that benefit students, children, farm workers and people in need in Sonoma County communities.

The 2017 Harvest Wine Auction will be held September 16 at La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard in the heart of Sonoma’s Russian River Valley.  Jackson Family Wines Chairman and Proprietor Barbara Banke and the entire Jackson family will be Honorary Chairs.  The 2017 Taste of Sonoma will be held September 2-3 at Donald and Maureen Green Music Center at Sonoma State University.

For information on the 25th Annual Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction and Wine Country Weekend, telephone 855-939-7666 or visit: www.sonomawinecountryweekend.com.

The 35th Annual Detroit International Wine Auction Took Place Saturday, October 15, Detroit, Michigan,
Raising A Record-breaking $3.3 Million

The 34th Annual Detroit International Wine Auction took place at downtown Detroit’s Capital Park, which was transformed into a shimmering dinner setting in a spectacular tented venue. Over 600 guests delighted in the gala, luxurious evening of world-class wines, gourmet cuisine, fashion and art to benefit Detroit’s College for Creative Studies. “The Art of Wine,” chaired by Matthew Simoncini, President, CEO and Director of Lear Corporation and Mona Simoncini, CCS Alumna 1989 in Graphic Communications, raised a record-breaking $3.3 Million to fund scholarships at CCS and provide free art classes for at-risk youth.

CCS provides free art programs to more than 4,000 children in Detroit each year, and supports talented but financially needy undergraduate students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. These students will go on to be the design leaders and inspired artists of tomorrow, as strengthen Detroit as a center for creativity and innovation.

The Detroit International Wine Auction has grown to be the largest wine auction in the region, and one of the biggest auctions in the country. CCS has been an anchor in the Detroit community since its founding in 1906 as the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts. Named one of the “Top Design Schools in the World” in Business Week, CCS today is one of Detroit’s most dynamic institutions.

Featured vintner for 2016 was Fisher Vineyards, Winemaker, Whitney, General Manager Robert and Sales and Marketing, Cameron.  In addition to the fabulous wine lots, the Auction offered some amazing experience lots: a Motown private jam session with the Four Tops, a catered rooftop party at Lear’s Innovation Studio, several trips to Italy and Paris, tickets to Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, a fly-fishing excursion to Northern Michigan and a Harley Davidson CVO 2017 Street Glide personalized for the buyer.

This year’s gala event, which will take place Saturday, October 21, will be chaired by Danialle and Peter Karmanos, Jr.  Featured vintner will be Torres.

Renowned vintner and auctioneer Fritz Hatton will again lead the bidding for the live auction.

Please contact the College for Creative Studies for further information and registration for the 36th Annual Detroit International Wine Auction; email: diwa@collegeforcreativestudies.edu; Telephone: 313-664-7464; CCS website:  www.collegeforcreativestudies.edu/news-and-events/diwa.

The 25th Annual Rusty Staub Wine Auction Was Held Wednesday, October 19 in New York City, Raising Over $1.5 Million

Baseball great Rusty Staub and his namesake auction is a perennial top performer and the 25th Annual Rusty Staub Foundation Emergency Food Program in 2016 generated over $1.5 Million for food pantries in the five boroughs of New York City.  The annual Program consists of two events each year, the Celebrity Chefs and Friends Golf Tournament that takes place in June and the Wine Auction and Dinner in October.  The Golf Tournament, featuring famed actor Len Cariou as 2016 honoree, also included dinner and an auction at Alpine Country Club in New Jersey.  The October auction and dinner took place at Maloney & Porcelli Restaurant, Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence-winning restaurant in Manhattan.  Rusty Staub focuses on wine lots, especially Burgundy, his favorite, for his auction, rather than winery tours or vacation getaways.

The Rusty Staub Foundation, established in 1985, raised nearly $20 Million in collaboration with Catholic Charities, supporting emergency pantries that serve more than 800,000 meals each year.  Rusty Staub’s motto is “Benefiting Youth.  Fighting Hunger.”

The 26th Annual Rusty Staub Wine Auction featuring Great Wines of the World to benefit the charities of the Rusty Staub Foundation will take place Wednesday, October 18 at Maloney & Porcelli Restaurant.

For more information on Rusty Staub’s charity events, the Golf Tournament and the 26th Annual Wine Auction, telephone 646-794-2483, email rsfoundation@archny.org. or visit his website:  www.rustystaubfoundation.com.

The 26th Annual Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Occurred November 10-13 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Raising $1.2 Million

The Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation presented its 26th annual schedule of events to raise money to help people in Hampton Roads.  The main fundraising event was their annual Grand Auction, the largest, most successful wine auction in Virginia, attracting hundreds of wine lovers from Hampton Roads and all over the East Coast.  The Wine Classic focuses primarily on helping to educate youth and to fund breast cancer research.  The Foundation is dedicated to the belief that the future strength and prosperity of the region and the nation are dependent on the education of our youth.  Born in 1991 by Bob and Eleanor Stanton, the event has distributed over $7 Million for charity.

The Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic last year raised $1.2 Million to provide support for local children’s educational charities.  Vintners of the Year were Grace Family Vineyards, Dana Estate and Tierra Roja.  Magnums and Mulligans Golf Tournament, an inaugural event, took place in June at the Bayville Golf Club, offering great golf and a dinner of gourmet food paired with magnums of special wines.  The Classic also included a Wine, Women and Fishing tournament.  This colorful event, taking place in August, has raised over $450,000 for breast cancer research at East Virginia Medical School. Forty boats fished and 70 bill fish were caught.  The fishing tournament ended with a dock party, music and dinner, with Janet Trefethen as host vintner.

The grand auction was held at the private home of Bob and Eleanor Stanton overlooking Lynnhaven River along the picturesque Bayville Golf Course on Chesapeake Bay.  Other events, wine tastings and dinners were held at Bayville Golf Club in Virginia Beach.  Renowned auctioneer, Ursula Hermacinski gaveled the live auction.

For information about the 2017 events including the Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic November 9-12, telephone Jennie Capps at 757-200-9463, email wineclassic@cox.net or visit the web site:  www.cbwc.org.