The Auction of Washington Wines, the premier wine auction celebrating Washington wine, is geared up for its biggest summer since its inception 23 years ago. As a tribute to this year’s theme: 2010 – A Wine Odyssey, the Auction of Washington Wines will feature more events taking place across the state and throughout the summer than ever before.
Vintage Walla Walla, the weekend of June 18 – 19, has partnered with the Auction of Washington Wines this year to donate all charitable proceeds to Seattle Children’s Hospital. Vintage Walla Walla is the annual signature event of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance, featuring more than 25 participating Walla Walla wineries.
The next weekend the celebration moves west for Revelry on Red Mountain at Col Solare winery, on Saturday, June 26, back for its second year due to popular demand. The event is sure to be a hit with 20 wineries pouring wine alongside culinary delights prepared by Chef/Owner Frank Magaña of Prosser’s Picazo7Seventeen and Chef John Sarich of Chateau Ste. Michelle. Aside from experiencing the panoramic views of Red Mountain, the Horse Heaven Hills and Yakima Valley guests will also enjoy live entertainment and a silent auction.
The summer of spectacular events will culminate with Auction weekend in Woodinville on August 19-21. The Barrel Auction & Picnic with the Winemakers on Thursday will feature the popular Barrel Auction, with the opportunity to bid on new releases from up to 20 wineries. Tulalip Resort Casino will provide delicious picnic fare for all the guests who can also enjoy the silent auction and games throughout the event.
On Friday night guests can choose from up to 15 winemaker dinners taking place across the greater Seattle area. Each exclusive dinner event is hosted at a private estate or local winery and features Washington winemakers pouring wines paired exquisitely with a gourmet meal crafted by a guest chef.
The elegant black-tie Gala Auction on Saturday evening at Chateau Ste. Michelle will feature a multi-course menu accompanied by the best Washington wines around. After bidding on an array of fabulous auction lots guests will enjoy dancing to the sounds of Brian Nova and his orchestra.
This year’s Honorary Vintner is Rob Griffin of Barnard Griffin, and the Honorary Grower is Dr. Wade Wolfe of Thurston Wolfe Winery.
Proceeds from the Auction of Washington Wines benefit uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital, whose core mission is to provide world-class care for every child in the region, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. This year, the hospital expects to need more than $100 million in uncompensated care funds. A portion of the money raised will also be donated to the Washington Wine Education Foundation.
The Auction of Washington Wines is the 501 (c)(3) non-profit philanthropic organization of the Washington wine industry and has raised more than $23 million since its inception in 1988. Find out more at www.auctionofwashingtonwines.org.