When most people think of Napa Valley wineries, they think of a picturesque landscape, impeccable wines, and when they should contact Napa Wine Tours to reserve their private chauffeured car. What most tend to forget, or are not even aware of, is the active role that Napa Valley wineries play in various Napa Valley fundraisers.
On Monday, October 1, 2012, amid amazing talent and delicious hors de’oeuvres prepared by a surprise chef, Schramsberg Vineyards and Grgich Hills Estate provided their outstanding wines during the Napa Valley Playhouse Annual Fundraiser.
One of Napa’s most successful fundraisers, the Napa Valley Vintners Auction Napa Valley, celebrated its 32nd year in 2012. Since the first Auction Napa Valley, this event has raised $100 million for local Napa non-profits. This year’s event alone raised more than $8 million as people from across the United States and from all around the world bid on incredible live lots from wineries such as Chappellet Vineyard & Winery, Chateau Montelena, and Silver Oak Cellars; barrel auction lots from many wineries including Crocker & Starr Winery, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, and Vineyard 7 & 8; e-auctions, and private parties at the homes and wineries of numerous Napa Valley vintners.
This year’s F.A.M.E. (Foundation for African Medicine & Education) Napa Valley in May at Charles Krug Winery consisted of many participating Napa Valley wineries including Domaine Chandon, Madrigal Vineyards, and Von Strasser Winery.
2012 was also the year for the V Foundation for Cancer Research’s 14th Annual fundraiser. The weekend celebration in August raised close to $4 million. Along with incredible items offered up for bids, the weekend also included an informative symposium with presentations by expert physicians and scientists. One of the most memorable lots was a vertical of 19 vintages of Harlan Estate Wines. The final event of the weekend was hosted by Nickel & Nickel winery.
During this time in the midst of 2012’s Napa Valley Harvest, it’s nice to remember that the gifts a healthy Harvest brings are shared with the Napa Valley community and beyond.
