Lending a Helping Hand to Forest Fire Prevention and Relief

T he Napa Valley’s status as the country’s most iconic wine region, home to some of the finest wine producers in the United States, is the result of generations of incessant innovation. The great viticulturalists, winemakers and consultants who built this region each left indelible marks. Now, collectors and enthusiasts flock here for terroir-expressive, compelling bottles crafted by the talented individuals and families who safeguard the valley’s renown.

Today, the region, like much of California, is threatened by climate change, appearing in the forms of extreme weather events, drought and forest fires often resulting in smoke-tainted grapes. On 5 November 2022, the inimitable Opus One winery in Oakville, CA, will provide the setting for an evening that both celebrates the new harvest and, more crucially, renews support for two entities that focus on some of the most pressing issues caused by a changing climate. The Napa County Resource Conservation District and the Napa Communities Firewise Foundation carry out the vital work of maintaining firebreaks and restoring forest land, and otherwise work tirelessly to protect the livelihood of this great region.

Sotheby’s has shared in the Napa Valley’s pursuit of innovation and celebrated greatness ever since its very first wine auction in 1970. Now, the auction house is powering a series of charity events hosted by the Napa Valley Vintners. The Collective Napa Valley Vintage Celebration Dinner is the latest milestone in this unique mission, following four successful auctions to date: the ex-cellar Napa Valley Library Wine Auction, the trade-only Premiere Napa Valley and Vintage Perspectives sales and The Collective Napa Valley Barrel Auction.

The fund-a-need initiative benefiting fire prevention, mitigation and restoration is already underway and accepting donations. Then, on 5 November, Jamie Ritchie, Sotheby’s Worldwide Chairman for Wine and Spirits, will host a fundraising segment during the evening’s dinner. Here, a range of experiences will be on offer, including a private dinner pairing Promontory wines with SingleThread Farm cuisine, as well as a dinner for twenty prepared by both of Napa Valley’s Michelin three-starred chefs and featuring wines from Bart and Daphne Araujo’s estates and personal cellar.

This convening of benefactors, friends and devotees is sure to showcase Napa Valley at its most generous and conscientious, while the local community will enjoy some of the most enviable events to go under the hammer.

Sotheby’s Magazine

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