Seattle, Washington – With more than 2,400 people in attendance, the 24th annual Auction of Washington Wines took place on August 18-20 in Woodinville, WA at Chateau Ste. Michelle and raised more than $1.5 million for uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation. Highlights of this prestigious charity wine event featured the Picnic & Barrel Auction, the Wine Gala Auction and winemaker dinners.
PHOTO: Winemakers from around the state came to mingle with attendees during the 24th Annual Auction of Washington Wines events.
Sherri Swingle, Auction of Washington Wines Executive Director, said, “Wow! This was truly a fantastic weekend of events. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to celebrate the Washington wine industry while raising vital funds for uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation.”
The Picnic & Barrel Auction featured games, a silent auction, and the exciting barrel auction. Wine lovers attended 13 winemaker dinners on Friday evening around the greater Seattle area at various locations including Canlis, EFESTĒ Winery, El Gaucho, private residences, and more. The weekend concluded with the Covey Run 5K and 10K run/walk and The Wine Gala.
“It is an honor to serve as co-chair for the Auction of Washington Wines,” said Rick Small, 2011 Auction co-chair and owner of Woodward Canyon Winery. “Year after year, I am amazed by the incredible generosity of Washington winemakers, growers, and the wine-loving community. This year has laid the groundwork for a fabulous 25th Anniversary in 2012. I am anxiously looking forward to next year’s auction!”
“Every year we try new ways to keep the event exciting for our guests, vintners, growers, sponsors, et cetera. This year’s patient family really touched everyone at The Wine Gala reminding us all how important Seattle Children’s is to our region,” said Michele Smith, 2011 Auction co-chair and owner of Smith and Greene Company.
Since 1999, the Auction of Washington Wines has honored industry leaders for their contributions to the Washington wine industry. With more than 40 years of experience with agriculture and pomology, growing renowned grapes from San Jose to West Richland, Jerry Bookwalter of Bookwalter Winery was the 2011 Honorary Grower. Self-taught winemaker and Seattle restaurant industry veteran, Chris Camarda of Andrew Hill Winery was the 2011 Honorary Vintner.
Tasting Room Magazine is proud to be a media sponsor of this event. Highlights of the top auction items include:
– One week aboard The World and Betz Family Wines – $25,000
– Two dinners for ten at Col Solare with Chateau Ste. Michelle CEO/President Ted Baseler – $40,000
– Dinner at Quilceda Creek with Michael Mina – $18,000
– Artwork “65 Roses” created by Seattle Children’s Hospital patient family and local artist Taras Lesko sold to Co-Chairs and Woodward Canyon Owners Rick and Darcey Small, who plan to incorporate the artwork into a future wine label.
About the Auction of Washington Wines
Since its inception in 1988, the Auction of Washington Wines has raised more than $24 million, with a majority benefitting uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital. This distinguished event gives wine lovers the chance to help the Washington wine industry bridge a critical funding gap for children across the Northwest. The 2011 Auction co-chairs are Brad and Michele Smith of Smith and Green Company and Seattle Children’s Guild Association & Foundation Board Trustee and Rick Small and Darcey Fugman-Small, owners of Woodward Canyon Winery.