WHAT MAKES THE SONOMA COUNTY BARREL AUCTION SO INNOVATIVE?
By Liz Thach, MW for PLANET GRAPE WINE REVIEW
Each year there are a variety of charity wine auctions held across the US, but the one that wins the innovation crown is the Sonoma County Barrel Auction. This is because auction organizers challenge local wineries to craft a unique, one of a kind wine blend to be sold at the auction only. The results are a kaleidoscope of mesmerizing Pinot Noirs, exotic Chardonnays, delectable Zinfandels, brooding Cabernets, and other interesting varieties that grow well in Sonoma County.
Sonoma Barrel Auction Tasting at Landmark Vineyards, Photo Credit: L. Thach, 2017
Bidders are wine buyers from across the nation who arrive at the 2-day event to mingle with media, taste the barrel samples, and enjoy delicious local foods. This year the first day included barrel sample tastings at Landmark Vineyards in Sonoma Valley and Kosta-Browne Winery in the Russian River appellation. The second day, held at John Ash Restaurant, started with more barrel tasting in the morning followed by lively bidding in the afternoon auction.
This year’s 90 lots ranged in size from 5 to 20 cases, with the highest bids going for special lots of Silver Oak cabernet sauvignon and Kosta-Browne pinot noir. The buyers will make these innovative wines available at their wine shops, restaurants and stores over the next 2 years, so consumers will have a chance to taste these once in a lifetime blends. This year the auction broke another record to achieve $794,500.
