Auction Items
The Collectors Gala & Live Auction
April 19, 2024
LOT 1 | A SENSORY JOURNEY - IN-HOME OMAKASE EXPERIENCE FOR SIX (6) WITH CHEF TONY HUYNH
An omakase experience is a Japanese culinary tradition that translates to “I’ll leave it up to you” or “chef’s choice.” It is an exquisite dining adventure where the chef curates a multi-course meal incorporating the freshest and finest ingredients available that day. The omakase experience is not just about eating, but is a whole sensory journey. It emphasizes the chef’s creativity, skill, and ability to harmonize flavors, textures, and presentation to engage all of the senses and create an unforgettable culinary memory.
Chef Tony Huynh and his wife founded Omakase by TH during the pandemic. Calling upon Tony’s passion and former training as a sushi chef, they hosted a few sushi dinners for friends and family looking to have a nice dinner when restaurants stopped allowing dine-in for customers. The guests had such a great time that they had the idea to open a business offering private omakase experiences in homes.
Take your senses on a journey during this private omakase for six (6) all within the comfort and intimacy of your own home. Leave it all up to Chef Tony Huynh!
Must be redeemed within one year of the auction. Beverages not included.
Donated Chef Tony Huynh - Omakase by TH
LOT 2 | A DRAM GOOD TIME! RARE BOURBON TASTING FOR SIX (6) | OCTOBER 10, 2024
Mark Twain once said, “Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” If you agree, then this bourbon experience is your dram come true!
You and 5 friends will be treated to a dram good time during this spirited tasting (all puns intended!) of 6 specially-curated rare bourbons. Charlotte Bourbon Society Founders, Ken and Tracey Bernardo; Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko. Founder, Brad Halling; and Charlotte Wine + Food Board Member and NBC Sports’ NASCAR pit reporter, Marty Snider and his wife, Andrea, will host this one-of-a-kind experience at the Bernardo’s private residence.
The Charlotte Bourbon Society was established in 2018 as the natural evolution of an annual bourbon benefit Ken held to raise funds and awareness for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke. After hosting a few such dinners, Ken and Tracey realized that Charlotte lacked a group focused on whiskey education and events where whiskey-lovers could relax and expand their knowledge of all things bourbon and the Charlotte Bourbon Society was born. Since then, the Charlotte Bourbon Society has become Charlotte’s premier bourbon-based association and Ken and Tracey have amassed a collection of rare and hard-to-find bourbons that will rival any in the Southeast (they’ve even dedicated an entire room in their home to it)! You’ll be sure to get a VIP tour of the collection as part of this experience.
To top it off, you’ll meet NC whiskeymaker and a real American hero, Brad Halling, who served in and survived the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. After surviving the battle, later memorialized by Hollywood in the movie Black Hawk Down, Brad was given a second chance at life. Together with his wife, he founded BHAWK, short for Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko., creating premium whiskeys to honor the giants he walked amongst and to express gratitude to all those who’ve served our nation and our communities.
Heavy hors d'oeuvres to be provided. This event will take place in the evening on October 10, 2024.
Donated by Ken & Tracey Bernardo, Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko., and Marty & Andrea Snider
LOT 3A | MAGNUM MADNESS - MUGA MAGNUMS
One (1) Magnum each of:
2009 Bodegas Muga 'Prado Enea' Gran Reserva
2010 Bodegas Muga 'Prado Enea' Gran Reserva
Founded in 1932 by the Muga family, Bodegas Muga is Rioja Alta’s premier producer and the Muga family is one of Spain’s most important winemaking families. The philosophy of this legendary winery revolves around adherence to tradition, dynamism, and winemaking of the highest quality. Few producers in the world fashion wines that have such a sense of tradition and place as Muga’s.
Raise your paddle high for these highly-rated Rioja icons that have been meticulously cellared by CW+F Chairman Emeritus David Furr and are ready to drink today!
Donated by David Furr
LOT 3B | MAGNUM MADNESS - OVID TRIO
Trio includes:
One (1) Magnum 2018 OVID Napa Valley
Two (2) 750 mL bottles 2019 OVID Napa Valley - 100 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Don’t miss your chance to own a vertical of OVID’s eponymous flagship red blend which focuses primarily on estate Cabernet grown high atop Napa Valley’s famed Pritchard Hill, including a large format and two 100-point bottles!
Donated by Pat & Debbie Phillips and Ovid Napa Valley
LOT 3C | MAGNUM MADNESS - SCHRADER MAGNUM
For more than two decades, Schrader Cellars has produced benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon from fruit grown in the most prestigious vineyards in the Napa Valley. Schrader creates wines known for their vibrant flavor and opulent richness that have garnered the highest critical acclaim in the history of American Cabernet Sauvignon production.
One (1) Magnum 2015 Schrader Cellars 'Old Sparky' Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - 100 Points Jeb Dunnuck
"A wine that got more than one expletive in my notes, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky is a barrel selection and is mostly clone 6 with smaller amounts of clone 4. Pure crème de cassis, blueberries, violets, white chocolate, and white flower notes all soar from this inky 2015 which is full-bodied, powerful, yet weightless and elegant. Its tannins are covered by a wealth of fruit, it has no hard edges, perfect integration of its fruit, tannin, acidity, and alcohol, and a finish that just won’t quit. This is a crazy good wine that couldn’t be any better." - Jeb Dunnuck
When you combine extremely conscientious owners (Carol and Fred Schrader) with a world-class winemaker (Thomas Rivers Brown) and perhaps the best grapes in the Valley (the first-growth terroir of the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville), the outstanding result is no surprise - and no accident!
This large-format cult classic is aged with care and ready to drink now or into the future.
Donated by Tom & Kelley Bohrer
LOT 4 | TRUIST VIP EXPERIENCE FOR TWO (2) FOR THE FINAL DAY OF THE 124th U.S. OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP | JUNE 16, 2024
Experience one of the world’s most prestigious golf tournaments in the utmost style as a VIP guest of Truist while attending the final day of the 124th U.S. Open Championship on Sunday, June 16, 2024 in Pinehurst, North Carolina. You’ll be picked up from Charlotte in private transportation that will take you to and from Pinehurst. While at the tournament, you will receive access to Truist’s private chalet including an abundant spread of food and an array of beverages available throughout the day. Don’t miss your chance to see the world’s best golfers up close as they compete live for the Championship title right here in the Tarheel state!
Donated by Truist
LOT 5 | GOLF, LODGING, AND DINING AT CONGAREE GOLF CLUB IN RIDGELAND, SC
Since opening in 2017, Congaree Golf Club has been one of those courses that holds a certain lore in the golf world—many have heard, but few have seen. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the South Carolina Lowcountry (30 minutes north of Savannah, GA), the Tom Fazio design debuted as Golf Digest’s “Best New Private Course” in 2018 and recently was announced at No. 39 on Golf Digest’s 2021 “America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” rankings. In June 2021, Congaree hosted the Palmetto Championship.
Each year, the Global Golf Initiative at Congaree identifies dozens of high school students from around the world who have the talent to play college golf but lack the financial, parental or social advantages that kids from places like Kiawah Island might enjoy. The intense four-week program is a mix of educational, vocational, and golf instruction, including college preparation, life lessons, counseling, fitness training, and even club fitting. When they leave, Congaree’s advisors and counselors shadow them through the end of high school and into college.
Congaree’s clubhouse, known as The Lodge, frames the backdrop of the course’s 18th hole. Voted one of the Top 30 “Greatest Clubhouses in America” by Golf Digest, its pub, fireside lounge, and pleasant staff exude Southern hospitality.
This package includes:
Golf for up to three (3) guests - two (2) rounds each (caddies included)
On-site overnight accommodations with individual rooms for all parties
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Lodge
Guests will be hosted by Congaree ambassador Adam Glassner. Must be scheduled on mutually agreeable dates (Congaree is closed from approximately June 1 to October 1 and on most Mondays). Any alcohol purchases during the trip are at the expense of the winning bidder.
To learn more, we suggest you read this article: https://www.linksmagazine.com/5-things-to-know-about-congaree-golf-club/
Or visit the club website: https://www.congareegc.com/
Donated by Adam Glassner
LOT 6A | GO BIG OR GO HOME - KOSTA BROWNE
One (1) 3L 2008 Kosta Browne 'Koplen Vineyard' Pinot Noir - Etched
In 1997, Dan Kosta and Michael Browne founded Kosta Browne - one of North America’s most revered wineries, recognized for making some of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Located in Sebastopol, Sonoma County, and guided by an acclaimed team that includes renowned Winemaker Julien Howsepian, Kosta Browne makes appellation and single-vineyard wines from the most coveted cool-climate vineyards across the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, Anderson Valley, Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Lucia Highlands appellations.
The Koplen Vineyard lies in the Middle Reach of the Russian River appellation. Slightly sloped, this vineyard shows bold fruit with complex flavors. Dennis and Lynn Koplen farm the vineyard and Kosta Browne is the only producer who has ever had access to the fruit from this special property.
Those with a passion for Pinot will want to raise their paddles high for this prized large format showcasing the original style of Pinot Noir that brought Kosta Browne fame whilst it was under the ownership of its founders.
Donated by David Furr
LOT 6B | GO BIG OR GO HOME - BARNETT VINEYARDS
One (1) 3L 2012 Barnett Vineyards Rattlesnake Hill Cabernet Sauvignon - Etched
Barnett Vineyards, a small, boutique winery located at 2000' elevation atop of Spring Mountain in Napa Valley, is known for its designate Cabernet Sauvignon. From a first-growth site, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Rattlesnake (essentially their Reserve offering) is made from a blend of the finest lots. This wine may turn out to be one of their all-time greats.
This highly-rated Napa Valley mountain fruit Cabernet is ready to open now or hold for a few more years for the perfect occasion!
Donated by David Furr
LOT 7 | STROLL DOWN THE LIMERICK LANE - A VIP SONOMA WINE COUNTRY EXPERIENCE FOR UP TO SIX (6)
This fantastic lot offers everything you need to immerse yourself in a Sonoma wine-country getaway. Enjoy a 3-night stay for up to three (3) couples at the Limerick Lane Cellars 1023 Vineyard Farmhouse, a 53-acre property in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma County. Century-old vineyards surround this charming home adjacent to the Limerick Lane winery. The bucolic scenery and quiet calm of Sonoma County wine country create a perfect relaxing setting. It’s a serene retreat with a swimming pool (in the shape of a wine bottle!), olive and fruit trees, and arm-distance views of vineyards as far as the eyes can see. Relax with a glass of wine as the sun sets over the vineyards in your three-bedroom (1 king, 2 queens), two-bath private residence with plenty of open spaces to gather and places to retreat with breathtaking views from every window. You won't ever want to leave!
As part of this package, the winner and their guests will receive a private wine-tasting experience amidst the 1910 Block, a coveted vineyard planted over 100 years ago. Walk in the vineyards with Limerick Lane’s winemaker who will share their sustainable approach to farming as well as his approach to winemaking while experiencing first-hand the different blocks, varietals, and terroir of the property. Each couple will also receive a magnum of the beloved Limerick Lane Russian River Valley Zinfandel to take home.
Only 2 miles away, downtown Healdsburg is the hub of three major wine regions and home to some of the best restaurants in the nation. Take a stroll down the Limerick Lane!
This package will also include VIP tastings for up to six (6) with Charlotte Wine + Food Week participating wineries from Sonoma - Donelan and Skipstone.
Maximum of six guests. Reservations are available for Sunday-Thursday night stays only. Subject to availability and black-out dates, including holiday weeks. Must be used by April 30, 2025. The winning bidder may purchase additional or weekend nights at the regular rental rate. Tastings must be booked at least a month in advance and are based on availability. Airfare, transportation, and meals are the winning bidder's responsibility.
See a glimpse of the magnificent estate in the video below:
Donated by Limerick Lane, Donelan Wines & Skipstone
LOT 8A | GO BIG FOR BURGUNDY - MAISON LOUIS LATOUR
One (1) 3L 2010 Louis Latour Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru - Signed by Louis-Fabrice Latour
Louis Latour's exceptional domaine covers 50 hectares and includes the largest collection of Grand Cru vineyards in Burgundy. Founded in 1797, Maison Louis Latour has survived the ages and become a natural custodian of Burgundy's ancient traditions. Authentic and determinedly independent, the House has always made it a point of honor to remain family-owned. The Latour's Corton-Charlemagne vineyards are located on a prime section of the Corton hillside where the south-easterly aspect ensures maximum exposure to the sun. The fruit is harvested as late as possible to guarantee maximum ripeness.
This exceptional and rare large format Chardonnay is also signed by the late Louis-Fabrice Latour and ready for opening at your next dinner party!
Donated by David Furr
LOT 8B | GO BIG FOR BURGUNDY - BOUCHARD PÈRE & FILS
One (1) 3L 2009 Domaine Bouchard Père & Fils Beaune-Grèves “Vigne de L'Enfant Jésus” in OWC
One of the legendary wines of Burgundy’s Beaune appellation is Beaune-Grèves Vigne de L’Enfant Jésus, an exclusivity from Bouchard Père & Fils since 1791. As the name suggests the vineyard is located inside the vast Beaune-Grèves vineyard – one of the best 1er crus of Beaune – and the Vigne de L’Enfant Jésus plot is located in what is widely considered the best part of Beaune-Grèves.
This rare large format from Burgundy has incredible provenance and is a trophy for any cellar!
Donated by David Furr
LOT 9 | WINE LIKE A LOCAL - VIP DAY IN NAPA WITH SOMMELIER ANTHONY WASHINGTON FOR FOUR (4)
Even if you’re a wine connoisseur or a savvy world traveler, planning a perfect day in Napa Valley can be a daunting challenge. How do you choose between more than 400 wineries and 90 tasting rooms and plot out your visits just right to arrive on time for your appointments? Well, worry you not, because we’ve crafted the perfect VIP day in Napa Valley for four (4)!
On your next trip to Napa, Anthony Washington, Napa Valley local and Estate Director at Rewa Vineyards will welcome you to begin your day at Rewa for a VIP tour and tasting at the estate. From there, he’ll customize an itinerary for you, lunch included, where you’ll get a local wine expert’s access to the best wineries and his insider knowledge, to boot. Don’t miss your opportunity to bid on this priceless, unforgettable day!
To be redeemed within 18 months from the date of auction. Date of tour to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and Anthony Washington.
Donated by Anthony Washington and Rewa Vineyards
LOT 10 | BREAKING THE LAW OUT WEST IN PASO - A PRICELESS 4-DAY WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE IN PASO ROBLES FOR FOUR (4)
Paso Robles, California, known simply as “Paso” by the locals, is a thriving community with world-class wines located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. No longer a well-kept secret, connoisseurs have discovered the region’s highly acclaimed wineries making Bordeaux- and Rhône-style wines. The region showcases a growing collection of over 300 wineries, breweries, distilleries and eateries, yet Paso remains true to its California countryside roots, where flocks of wild turkeys still mingle with cattle, sheep and goats, and lush groves of oak trees tower over windy roadways and vineyards. Paso has a little something for every wine and food connoisseur, as well as the nature lover.
Two (2) lucky couples will experience all the delights of Paso Robles in style gaining access to the private cellars and wineries of the most sought-after producers of ultra-premium wine within the west side of Paso Robles. You’ll rest in luxury during your three-night stay at the stunning Law Estate guest cottage amidst the lush hills and voluptuous valleys comprising the organic working acres of Law Estate Wines, centrally located on the west side just 5 miles from downtown Paso.
During your stay, you’ll enjoy an array of customized private tours, tastings and meals at some of the area’s most prestigious wineries while coming face-to-face with Paso’s leading wine industry personalities as you visit L’Aventure, Clos Solene, SEDUIRE, Fulldraw, Benom and, of course, Law! To cap it all off, you’ll come home with a coveted magnum from each winery along your way. This package is so on fire, it feels like we must be breaking the law!
This Lot Includes:
Three (3) night stay at the Law Estate Winery private vineyard cottage for two (2) couples
Private vertical and futures tasting in the private library at Law Estate Wines for four (4)
Multi-course dinner curated by a private chef and hosted at the Law Estate winery with winemaker Philipp Pfunder for four (4)
VIP Bordeaux Import Tasting alongside a vertical review of French winemaker Guillaume Fabres’ library of wines at BENOM + magnum of Les Deux Freres 2021
Clos Solène Estate Tasting and Vineyard Excursion for four (4) + magnum of Estate Rosé 2023
Fulldraw Private Tour and Tasting for four (4) with owner and winemaker Connor McMahon + magnum of Hunny Bunny 2016
L’Aventure Library Tasting for four (4) + magnum of Optimus 2021
SEDIURE Vineyard Tour and Tasting for four (4) by owner and vintner Charles Liu, complete with lunch and wine pairing at the SÉDIURE Estate + magnum Le Flirt 2021
Does not include airfare or transportation. Meals outside of those noted above are the responsibility of the winning bidder. However, Law Estate Wines will gladly provide recommendations for dining options. Must be booked well in advance with travel complete by April 20, 202. Dates are based on the availability of the guest cottage on mutually agreeable dates. Blackout dates include September – November.
Donated by BENOM, Clos Solène, Fulldraw, Law Estate Wines, L’Aventure, and SÉDIURE