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2018 Live Auction

Rare Wines. Fine Art. Fabulous Trips.

2018 LIVE AUCTION LOTS

 

LIVE LOT 1

Wine dinner for 20 at Bistro by the Tracks featuring Arcadian Winery –  two magnums [1.5L] each: 2005 Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands; 2005 Sleepy Hollow  Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2000 Francesca Vineyard Pinot Noir; one jeroboam [3L] Hommage 2005 A Max Syrah; and six bottles [750mL] Clos Pepe 2012 Chardonnay.

Winegrower Joe Davis of Arcadian Winery is a firm believer in Old World methods of crafting fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Arcadian owns no vineyards, but Joe spends a substantial amount of time in contracted vineyards in Monterey, Santa Maria, and Santa Barbara counties, making him as much of a farmer as he is winemaker. You can count on the wine included with this lot being stellar, especially the 2005 Pisoni Vineyard  Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands; which was rated 93+ by Stephen Tanzer; and the 2005 Sleepy Hollow  Vineyard 2005 Pinot Noir – 91-ST. Dinner will be prepared by Chef Danny Wilhoit and the wonderful staff at Bistro By the Tracks – you know the food will be amazing and the wine are too. This is a must-have – bid!

Donor: Arcadian Winery

 

LIVE LOT 2

Three magnum [1.5L] vertical of Vineyard 7 & 8 [2012-2014] Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain

Two-time featured vintner Wesley Steffens, of Vineyard 7 & 8, was at L’Amour du Vin just last year. His parents founded the winery in 199 atop the gorgeous Spring Mountain. Their tasting room has one of the best views in Napa. The wines of Vineyard 7 & 8 are first and foremost a reflection of the vineyard, focusing on crafting wines naturally with a true sense of place. Wes Steffens is now the General Manager and Assistant Winemaker working alongside Martha McClellan, winemaker for Harlan Estates, Blankiet, Checkerboard, to name a few.

Robert Parker rated the 2012 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 92-94, saying it may be the strongest effort he had yet tasted from the winery; which possesses copious notes of blueberries, black raspberries, graphite and forest floor. The 2013, rated 92, is a big boy (15.1% alcohol) and there were only 725 cases produced. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and shows the high-elevation, chocolaty, ripe blackcurrant fruit that one expects in mountain Cabernet, with good acidity, ripe tannin and a long, heady, rich finish. The 2014, rated 92+; was also omposed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and is deep garnet-purple in color with bold, expressive cassis, chocolate covered cherries and cinnamon stick notes plus underlying dusty earth, dried herbs, pepper and garrigue suggestions. Full-bodied, firm and slowly evolving, it is packed with black fruit and savory layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and earthy. An amazing trio!

Donor: Vineyard 7 & 8

 

LIVE LOT 3

Wine Dinner on the William J. Mitchell Terrace at the KMA for up to 20 prepared by Bistro by the Tracks featuring a 24-bottle [750mL]  horizontal of 2014 Wagner Family wines; six bottles each: Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley; Caymus Emmolo Merlot, Napa Valley; Mer Soleil Reserve, Santa Lucia Highlands; Conundrum Blanc de Blancs – PLUS private, behind-the-scenes tour with KMA Curator Stephen Wicks

The Wagner family has roots in Napa Valley winemaking that go back 150 years. In 1975, Chuck Wagner and his dad Charlie noticed that there were a few barrels that tasted better than the rest, so they decided to separate them from the batch and bottle under a new label called “Special Selection.” A decade later Wine Spectator awarded them the prestigious “Top Wine of the Year Award” for their 1984 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, and again five years later for their 1990 vintage.  Caymus Vineyards is the only winery in the world to have twice earned Wine Spectator’s highest accolade, they did not stop there, and today they are proud to showcase a collection of wines that have a reputation for quality and consistency, produced from the premiere winegrowing regions of California.

The wine included in this lot Caymus Special Selection, the star of the show – rated 94; Caymus Emmolo Merlot – rated 88.  The Mer Soleil and Conundrum are also crowd favorites and round out what will be a four-course dinner prepared by Danny Whilhot of Bistro by the Tracks.

And, be the first to have a dinner party on the third floor William J. Mitchell Terrace of the Knoxville Museum of Art. The donor of this lot – Randy Burleson – has wanted to have a dinner here for years! PLUS, KMA Curator Stephen Wicks will be on hand to give a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s archives and vault; and to give you a tour of the museum’s permanent collections Currents: Recent Art from East Tennessee and Beyond and Higher Ground:  A Century of the Visual Arts in East Tennessee; and either Scenic Impressions: Southern Interpretations from the Johnson Collection (May 4-July 29) or Joseph Delaney: On the Move (August 17-November 4), (depending on the scheduled date). Mutually agreeable date; late Spring, Summer, or early Fall suggested. Expires March 3, 2019.

Donor: Wagner Family and Bistro by the Tracks

 

 LIVE LOT 4

Two night stay for 2 couples at the Martinelli Winery Suite – 2 bedroom, one bath, living room, dining area, and full kitchen, includes private tasting for 4; PLUS 2 magnums [1.5L] Martinelli 2014 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Previous L’Amour du Vin attendees may recognize Martinelli Winery as the 2010 Featured Vintner. The Martinelli family focused on small, exceptional productions from each of its 19 vineyards, can trace its winemaking roots to the 1880s, when newlyweds Giueseppe Martinelli and Luisa Vellutini immigrated from Italy to California. They would later plant Zinfandel and Muscat in what is now called Jackass Hill Vineyard, which still produces grapes to this day.

Arrive at the beautiful Martinelli Winery Suite, with two bedrooms, one bath, living room, dining area, and full kitchen for a two-night stay for two couples. Nestled in the heart of the Russian River Valley, this gorgeous estate is ripe for exploration. Enjoy a private tasting with Martinelli, as they pour a sampling of their voluptuous wines and share the story of how three generations made the winery what it is today.

If you simply cannot wait to explore Martinelli and its wines – fret not! In the meantime, you can enjoy two magnums of Martinelli’s 2014 Pinot Noir.  Rated 90 by Wine Spectator, this balanced wine hints at rose petals and red fruit, with a smooth finish that continues to please.  Enjoy now or continue to age for three years.

Sate your appetite for adventure and fine wine by bidding now!

Donor: Martinelli Winery

 

LIVE LOT 5

Two twelve-bottle [750mL] verticals (2004-2015) of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine:  Château de Beaucastel and Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe “La Crau”

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an historic village between the towns of Orange and Avignon, in France’s southern Rhône Valley. Grape vines were first planted here by the Roman Legions. The region is famous for powerful, full-bodied red wines made predominantly from the classic southern Rhône grape trio: Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. The original AOC rules allowed 10 varietals of grapes, and were amended to 13 in 1936, and 18 in 2009. The permitted grapes are a combination of red and white varietals, but nobody uses all of them. Most producers only use the GSM trio plus Cinsault. La Crau, owned primarily by Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe, is by far Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most famous vineyard.

Picking the “best” producers for any wine is essentially like a religious debate. If you don’t believe it, get a half dozen of your knowledgeable wine-drinking friends and then agree upon the best producer of Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa. The same passion applies to the wines of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC. However, there are three or four names that appear on virtually everyone’s list of top producers. Two of those are Château de Beaucastel and Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe. Beaucastel is regarded by many as the top estate of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It is one of only three producers to plant and vinify all 13 grape varieties permitted under Châteauneuf AOC regulations in 1936. The property has been in the Perrin family since 1909. Like the Perrins, the Brunier family is legendary in its own right, having been rooted to the plateau known as La Crau for over 100 years. For many people, La Crau is the region’s grandest cru, thus making Vieux Télégraphe one of the top wines of the region. One key distinction about these two great houses is the consistency of their wines across time. Average ratings between Parker and Wine Spectator for the Beaucastel vertical is 95.1 and for the Vieux Télégraphe is 93.75 – roughly 94.4 for the 24 bottle lot as a whole.

Twelve year verticals of any wine are rarely available in any auction and almost never at retail. Two 12-year verticals for the same period from top producers of the same region available in one lot? Let’s just say it makes hens’ teeth look like a ubiquitous commodity.

Donor: Dottie and Glenn Irwin

 

LIVE LOT 6

Wine Dinner for 20 at Historic Tapoco Lodge Featuring Aubert Wines – including lodging

  • Dinner for up to 20 persons at historic Tapoco Lodge near Robbinsville, NC prepared by Jeff Carter and chefs from the Burleson Brands family of restaurants
  • Overnight accommodations for participants – 10 rooms
  • Eighteen (750ml) bottles of Aubert 2015 vintage wines:

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Chardonnay “Eastside,” Russian River Valley

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Chardonnay “Larry Hyde and Sons,” Carneros

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Chardonnay “Lauren,” Sonoma Coast

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

o Three bottles of Aubert 2015 Pinot Noir “UV-SL Vineyard,” Sonoma Coast

o A few surprises!

Have you been to historic Tapoco Lodge? It’s located at the base of the Cheoah Dam near Robbinsville, NC. To get there, you travel US 129 past Chillhowee Dam up to Calderwood. As you continue on US 129, you will traverse the famous “The Tail of the Dragon.” Once you get to the other side, it is just a brief distance to Tapoco Lodge. The Lodge was built in 1930 by the Aluminum Company of America (aka Alcoa) as part of hydroelectric efforts in North Carolina. The name Tapoco comes from the first two letters of the Tallassee Power Company (formed as Alcoa’s power producing subsidiary) which began construction of the Cheoah Dam in 1916. FYI, those of you who saw the movie “The Fugitive” and remember the spectacular dive from the top of a dam – that scene was shot at the Cheoah Dam. Tapoco Lodge is on the National Register of Historic Places. Your wine dinner prepared by Jeff Carter and the chefs from the Burleson Brands restaurants will be served in the scenic restaurant which overlooks the Cheoah River.

Since “The Dragon” requires respect in the best of times and because of the distance back to Knoxville, Tapoco Lodge will provide rooms to you and your guests, 10 – 15 rooms total. This will allow you to party in confidence, but also enable you to take advantage of the beautiful scenery in the Nantahala National Forest and Great Smokey Mountains.

Now, a brief word about the wines. Founded by Mark and Theresa Aubert in 2000. Before building his own winery, Mark Aubert made his wines at Colgin Cellars and the Custom Crush facility. While much of his fruit is sourced, Aubert owns 3.2 acres of vineyard land in Sonoma. This land is the source of their UV wines. Aubert wine is one of the best producers California Chardonnay. They also make Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Prior to starting Aubert wine in 1999, Mark Aubert worked at some of the best wineries in California. He replaced Helen Turley at the Peter Michael Winery in Sonoma and he later replaced Helen Turley for the second time when he became the wine maker for the cult wine Colgin Cellars in Napa. Mark Aubert has also worked as consultant for some of the top California wineries including Sloan, Futo and Bryant Family. Given that resume, discussing the wines might seem somewhat incidental. However, there is a 100 point wine in this group – Chardonnay “Lauren.” The rest of the Chardonnay is rated 97 or 98. The Pinot is in the 94 point range. Fantastic juice! And, Randy promises a few surprised to fill out the dinner. Terrific wines, paired with terrific foods, in an historic setting, plus lodging – this is the perfect package! Thanks to the Burlesons and the Bailey family for this amazing lot!

Donor: Melissa and Randy Burleson and Adrian and Mary Bailey

 

LIVE LOT 7

Six magnum [1.5L] horizontal of 2014 Ramey wines: Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley; Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard, Napa-Carneros; Chardonnay, Platt Vineyard Sonoma Coast; Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley; Cabernet Sauvignon Annum, Napa Valley; Cabernet Sauvignon, Pedregal Vineyard, Oakville

Founded in 1996 by David Ramey and his wife Carla, Ramey Wine Cellars call their wines “pure California- rich in character, beautifully balanced,” and “always of exceptional quality.” Ramey Wine uses a process that mixes old world methods with new world science. David Ramey has an exceptional knowledge of wine and an increasingly impressive stack up of experience. He served as the Chair of Family Winemakers of California, is on the executive board of Communicating for Agriculture, and is on the Board of the Sonoma County Vintners and their government relations subcommittee and has also helped establish a number of wineries in California.

Now let’s talk about this incredible collection of magnums! All 2014 Ramey wines, this lot includes exceptional Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons. The Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay received 95 points from Wine Enthusiast and is cultivated from old Wente vines planted back in the 1970s; has high-toned floral and citrus notes, with a bold full-body elegance with flavors of anise and creme brulee. The Hyde Vineyards, Napa-Carneros Chardonnay is infused with rich, tropical fruit flavors that earned it 94 points from Wine Advocate. Enjoy this classic vintage that has toasty, oak undertones with a gritty, citrus texture. The last Chardonnay, from Platt Vineyard, Sonoma Coast comes from Ramey’s coolest vineyard that creates more mineral driven wine. Robert Parker gave this Chardonnay 95 points, and remarks on its expressive peach, grapefruit, ginger notes. This wine is medium-bodied with distinct richness and creamy texture- that is sure to delight any Chardonnay lover!

Now let’s get to the Cabs! The three bottles included in this lot are a wine collectors’ dream. The Napa Valley Cabernet has notes of cherry, plum, smoke, and licorice to craft this well-balanced wine. Delicate despite its smoky power, this wine is a delight to the palate. The Cabernet Sauvignon Annum from Napa Valley is a dense, powerful wine with complex flavors and notes. With delicate notes of blackberry jam, chocolate, mocha and spices to enhance the palate, this wine has just a hint of sweetness to give its unique flavors. Given 91-94 points from vinous it is clear that this wine is a delectable treat! The final Cabernet to complete this 2014 horizontal is the remarkable Pedregal Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Filled with plum, mocha, and dark cherry flavors, this bold, powerful wine is well-balanced and is a perfect blend of aromas, flavors and textures.Bring home these six incredible magnums from Ramey Wine Cellars that are sure to be an excellent addition to your own wine cellar!

Donor: Ramey Wine Cellars

 

LIVE LOT 8

One-week vacation in a private four-bedroom home, two minute walk from the beach in beautiful Sea Pines Plantation, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

This relaxing ranch home is located just inside the Ocean Gate. It has a heated pool and spa, patio and gas grill, a fully equipped kitchen with gas range, and laundry. The home sleeps ten with each of the four bedrooms having en suite baths and two closets. There are two king bedrooms, one bedroom with twin beds, and one upstairs bedroom with four twin beds. One king bedroom can be converted to two twin beds making the home suitable for a golf foursome or families. This lovely spacious home features an art collection of local Knoxville and regional artists, yet it is kid-friendly. Other amenities include Spectrum Cable TV, internet, two-car carport, plus a second driveway. There are multiple activities to enjoy including Harbour Town’s Greg Russell concerts and famous golf courses, the Forest Preserve, South Beach water sports, Lawton Stable horseback rides, dolphin excursions, and tennis, most of which are available by bike. Many nearby dining establishments will satisfy the most discriminate palates.  A mutually agreeable date may be chosen between the homeowner and winning bidder for May 2018-February 2019, no pets, Friday to Friday preferred.  Non-transferrable without owner consent.

Donor: Steve and Barbara Apking

 

LIVE LOT 9

One 5L bottle CIRQ 2014 Pinot Noir, Tree House, Russian River Valley; etched with the 2018 LDV featured work Broken Sky by artist Darren Waterston

Michael Browne’s tradition of teaming up with the L’Amour du Vin featured artist began in 2014 when he was LDV Featured Vintner. Each year since Kosta Browne, which he co-owned, has presented a unique and spectacular piece which combines the best of wine with the best of art. There are truly collector’s items. In the past he has donated a large format of his fabulous pinot noirs with the art work of Richard Jolley, Andy Saftel, Tomory Dodge, Jered Sprecher, and now Darren Waterston. These hand-etched and painted bottles beautifully create a wonderful retrospective of L’Amour du Vin through the years.

This year Waterston’s painting Broken Sky is etched on CIRQ 2014 Pinot Noir, Tree House. Some LDV patrons may remember tasting the very first vintage of Tree House, which was poured at L’Amour du Vin in 2015.

This recent release is another winner from CIRQ and proprietor Michael Browne. This 2014 is sourced from CIRQ’s second vineyard, Treehouse. With less than 1200 cases produced, this is an uncommon treasure, and it is nearly impossible to find in such a special format.  Rated 92 by Wine Spectator and 94 by Antonio Galloni’s Vinous. This wine has a dark fruit profile, notes of black cherry, cola, spice and menthol that flesh out in this ample, resonant Pinot.

This offering represents the trifecta of a fabulous wine, in a spectacular piece of art, in a large and unusual format. We are indebted to Michael Browne for his support of L’Amour du Vin through the years. If you are looking for a way to remember this year’s event, or looking for a great bottle of wine, or looking for a great work of art – this lot is for you!

Donor: Michael Browne

 

LIVE LOT 10

Silver Oak Wine Dinner for 10 catered by Chef Simon Hall at the home of Joe and Ruth Fielden

Enjoy a multi-course dinner with ten guests as you sit on the terrace of the beautiful, recently renovated and expanded Georgian home of Ruth and Joe Fielden. The house sits on the bank of the Tennessee River in the heart of Sequoyah Hills. Chef Simon Hall, known for his impeccable taste in wholesome and hearty cuisine, will prepare dinner. Wines will be provided by Silver Oak Cellars – three bottles each: Twomey Cellars 2013 Sauvignon Blanc; Twomey Cellars 2010 Merlot; Silver Oak 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley; and Silver Oak 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley.

Donor: Joe and Ruth Fielden, Silver Oak Cellars, Chef Simon Hall

 

LIVE LOT 11

One magnum [1.5L] Carter Cellars 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon G.T.O

With its beginnings rooted in a 1980s bed and breakfast, Carter Cellars grew from an expertly sourced restaurant wine list to expertly sourced fruits from the top vineyards in California. These fruits were then used to create award-winning wines of their own to offer in this restaurant and to the public. Through the years, Carter Cellars has continued to grow and perfect each of their offerings, and the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon G.T.O. is nothing short of impeccable.

Described by Carter Cellars as, “a serious wine for serious wine drinkers,” the G.T.O. receives an amazing 100 points from Robert Parker. Rich and layered flavors of crème de cassis, wild berry, spice, and licorice bring an understated mineral tang to the palate. Parker says this masterpiece is, “one of the truly majestic and singular world-class wines of Napa Valley.” Take home this bottle to sip on the seamless pairing of fruit and spice brought to us by Carter Cellars.

Donor: Carter Cellars // Mark Carter

 

 LIVE LOT 12

Two-night stay for up to three couples in the Guest House at Celani Family Vineyards in Napa with tour and tasting; PLUS Chef’s Table Experience for 4 at Long Meadow Ranch Farmstead Restaurant, two magnums [1.5L] Long Meadow Ranch 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, and two bottles each: Long Meadow Ranch Napa Valley Select and Prato Lungo Organic EVOO

Located at the foothills of Napa’s Vaca Mountain Range, the Celani Family’s private estate is the perfect setting for your stay. Celani’s wines are consistently rated in the 90s by Robert Parker; Mark Herold has been the winemaker since the first vintage. Wendy Day is amazing and will be your host during your stay at Celani Family Vineyards. Past L’Amour du Vin guests have loved Wendy and this amazing property. Your accommodations are right on the vineyard!

Included with this stay is a chef’s table experience for four guests at Long Meadow Ranch, featured winery and restaurant at L’Amour du Vin in 2015. Taste seasonally inspired dishes by Chef Stephen Barber, each expertly paired with proprietary wines. Plus, a magnum and sampling of their organic extra virgin olive oils to take home tonight!

Disclaimer: winning bidder cannot transfer the donation. Mutually agreeable dates; September and October unavailable due to Harvest season. Expires March 3, 2019.

Donor: Tom and Vicki Celani, Celani Family Vineyards; Long Meadow Ranch

 

LIVE LOT 13

One bottle [750mL] Screaming Eagle 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Oakville

One of Napa Valley’s smallest wineries, Screaming Eagle has been a premiere producer of exceptional California Cabernet Sauvignon since releasing its first vintage in 1995. Sitting atop a rocky hillside in the Oakville Appellation, it has been home to some of California’s most prolific winemakers, including Heidi Barrett and Andy Erickson.  Although best-known for its preeminent blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Screaming Eagle also plants a small allotment of Sauvignon Blanc each year. In 2010, the team at Screaming Eagle chose to release their Sauvignon Blanc for the first time. Rated 96 by Luca Gardini, it is an impeccable show of subtle lilies and delightful passion fruit with refreshing acidity and a hint of creaminess from malolactic fermentation. This inaugural bottle, one of only 300 produced in 2010, is a rare and exceptional addition to any collection.  Bid on this piece of history now!

Donor: A Friend of the KMA

 

LIVE LOT 14

Wine Dinner for Forty at the home of Bob Lederer featuring Sixty Bottles of Martinelli Wines!

  • Dinner for 40 at the lovely home of Bob Lederer prepared by Jeff Carter and chefs from the Burleson Brands family of restaurants
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Chardonnay, “Martinelli Road,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Chardonnay, “Zio Tony Ranch,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2015 Pinot Noir, “Blue Slide Ridge,” Sonoma Coast
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Pinot Noir, “Blue Slide Ridge,” Sonoma Coast
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Pinot Noir, “Bondi Home Ranch,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Pinot Noir, “Zio Tony Ranch,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Syrah, “Chico’s Hill,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Syrah, “Hop Barn Hill,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Zinfandel, “Giuseppe & Luisa,” Russian River Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Martinelli 2014 Zinfandel, “Vellutini Ranch,” Russian River Valley

Many of you will remember back to the 2010 L’Amour du Vin when Regina Martinelli introduced us to the wonderful world of Martinelli wines paired with the excellent cuisine of New York City’s chef Bill Telepan. It was a magical night.

One of the oldest and most historically significant vineyard owners and wine producers in Northern California is the large Martinelli family that cultivates over 350 acres. Remarkably, 90% or more of their entire production is sold off to other wineries as the production of their Martinelli wines tends to be small, ranging from fewer than 100 cases to 500 – 600+. Since 1896, five generations of the family have worked together producing apples and wine in Sonoma County. Martinelli makes lots of great Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Zinfandel. In fact, a complete horizontal of all of the Martinelli offerings will include 28 different varietal – single vineyard combinations.

Your wine dinner for 40 persons contains a 54 bottle horizontal comprised of 9 different wines from the 2014 vintage, 8 of which are from the Russian River Valley. The last six bottles are from the 2015 vintage. This is a marvelous group with scores from Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate ranging from 92+ to 96. Average score is 94.5 points! The superb Pinots were each rated either 96 or 95+. The lot has two wines rated 92+ and two 94+; all the rest were 95, 95+ or 96 points. Drinking this amazing juice, you won’t even care what’s for dinner! But you have no worries about the food! The meal will be created and served under the direction of Jeff Carter and the master chefs that work in the Burleson Brands Restaurant Group. Jeff is the Executive Chef for the entire domain. So, let’s recap. We have a wonderful venue and the great hospitality of Bob Lederer’s home, marvelous food, and exceptional Martinelli wine. Forty people are going to be very, very lucky!

Donor: Burleson Brands and Bob Lederer

 

LIVE LOT 15

Cycling adventure for up to 4 with George Hincapie and Christian Vande Velde – includes two-night stay at Hotel Domestique in South Carolina, two rides, dinner at Restaurant 17; PLUS 3 cases and 2 bottles of Blackberry Farm; one bottle each Boundary Tree and Fenceline; and one case each TN Times Pilsner, Screaming Cock Pale Ale, Coyote Tactics IPA. And top it off:

  • Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2001 Domaine du Pégaü “Cuvée Réservée”
  • Robert Foley 1999 Claret, Napa Valley
  • Sine Qua Non “The Raven” 2006 California Syrah

Hotel Domesitque is located at the base of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offering a serene, quiet escape in the country side. It has become a favorite for those seeking adventure in golf, fishing, and world-class cycling. The hotel is inspired by the world travels, tastes, and adventures of legendary cyclist George Hincapie who has won 17 Ronde van Vlaanderen, 3 U.S. National Road Race championships, and competed in the Tour de Fance 17 times. Join him and Christian Vande Velde, also a retired American professional road racing cyclist who rode professionally between 1998 and 2013, for two rides in the beautiful South Carolina country side. The winning bidder and up to 3 guests will stay at Hotel Domestique; select either two Mountain View King Suites or up to four Deluxe Queen rooms. Crackling fireplaces, high-ceilings, thoughtfully-curated art, and French windows make this a luxurious retreat; breakfast provided. Enjoy dinner with George and Christian at Restaurant 17, a world-class restaurant with innovative cuisine and international flair.

PLUS, take home a bounty of award-winning Blackberry Farm beer one bottle each Boundary Tree and Fenceline; and one case each TN Times Pilsner, Screaming Cock Pale Ale, Coyote Tactics IPA. AND three bottles of wine from Mary Celeste Beall’s personal cellar – first, Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2001 Domaine du Pégaü “Cuvée Réservée” was named the top wine of 2004 by Wine Spectator, who rated it 92 points; rated 96 by Robert Parker, 94 by Stephen Tanzer. Second, a Robert Foley 1999 Claret, Napa Valley; rated 93-RP, 93-WS, 93-ST; only 400 cases produced, most of which were sadly destroyed in a fire. A very hard to find wine! Last but certainly not least, a very special Sine Qua Non “The Raven” 2006 California Syrah; rated 96 by Jeb Dunnuck, 96-RP, and 95-WS. Founded in 1994 by Manfred and Elaine Krankl in Ventura, on California’s Central Coast, Sine Qua Non is the epitome of an artisanal, cult winery.

The winning bidder can choose from September 5-7, October 22-24, and October 29-31; must determine date before April 30. Nontransferable.

Donor: Hotel Domestique, Blackberry Farm

 

LIVE LOT 16

Long Weekend Getaway at Blackberry Farm in a 4-bedroom home for up to 4 couples, featuring two very unique dining experiences.  Enjoy a 3-night getaway including all meals in a spacious home at America’s premier gastronomic resort, a scenic picnic lunch atop Blackberry Mountain and a tasting menu dinner in one of Blackberry Farm’s signature private dining venues.      

 Plan to arrive at Boulder Cottage ready to unwind and enjoy a uniquely special Blackberry experience!  Boulder Cottage is a brand new, gorgeous 4 bedroom cottage featuring a wonderful porch for outside relaxing, kitchen and great room for socializing, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and scenic pastoral views of The Garden at Blackberry Farm.  Boulder Cottage is a few steps away from The Barn at Blackberry Farm ™ restaurant and Bramble Hall, and easily accessible to The Wellhouse, home to Blackberry Farm’s wellness & spa.  Guests will have full access to resort amenities.

Two unique dining experiences await you:

First, a catered picnic atop nearby Blackberry Mountain, Blackberry’s new mountain resort.  Located 15 minutes from the existing resort, you’ll eat, drink and relax in a private 5,200 acre setting, while taking in arguably the most dramatic, panoramic mountain views in the Eastern US.  You’ll enjoy a specially prepared picnic lunch, Blackberry style.  Wine pairings for the picnic shall be generously donated by D&V Distributing.

Second, a private dining experience in one of Blackberry’s signature private dining venues, such as The Cellar, The Keep in Bramble Hall, Yallarhammer Pavilion or The Garden (to be determined by Blackberry Farm, based upon availability and season).  A five-course tasting menu awaits you with wine pairings by Blackberry Farm’s James Beard Award winning sommelier team with wines donated by D&V Distributing.  For the L’Amour du Vin enthusiasts, this experience alone is worthy of your extra attention!

For your other dinner experiences, choose between a two-time James Beard Award Winning Restaurant, The Barn at Blackberry Farm ™, or the more relaxed and newest concept, The Dogwood at Blackberry Farm ™ . Both restaurants provide extraordinary experiences with unparalleled southern service, yet each takes its own unique style in fare and atmosphere.  Or if secluded privacy is preferred for both nights’ dinners, your group may have a meal delivered to the comforts of your weekend home.

A la carte resort activities, incidentals, and alcohol (aside from the Scenic Picnic & Private Dining Experience) are not included.  Dates require advanced booking, are subject to availability, and major holidays are not available.  Stay must occur by 3/1/19.

Donor: Blackberry Farm, D&V Distributing, Anonymous Blackberry Farm Private Owner

 

LIVE LOT 17

Chef’s Tasting Menu and Wine Pairings for 2 at Nancy Oakes’ Boulevard Restaurant; dim sum brunch in the city OR picnic lunch in Healdsburg with Nancy; and two-night stay for one couple in San Francisco

Chef Nancy Oakes has reached and sustained a level of awareness and culinary excellence held by few chefs in America today. A longtime fixture of the San Francisco culinary scene, Nancy Oakes is the city’s most beloved chefs and one of the most lauded chefs in America. Nancy received a James Beard Award for Best Chef in California in 2001; and Boulevard Restaurant, which she has been at the helm of since opening in 1993, won Outstanding Restaurant in 2012. The restaurant has also received a coveted Star in the Michelin Guide seven years in a row.

Included in this lot is the chef’s tasting menu at Boulevard with wine pairings. According to Zagat: this top-end Embarcadero landmark showcasing the culinary vision of Nancy Oakes continues to excel thanks to the robust flavors of its mind-blowing, market-driven American cuisine, paired with a terrific wine list and served with the ultimate in professionalism; set amid vibrant belle époque elegance with spectacular Bay Bridge views…”

Later, you will head with Nancy to either her favorite dim sum place for brunch in San Francisco or instead to explore her hometown of Healdsburg, followed by a picnic lunch. The winning bidder chooses!

Also included with this lot is two nights at one of three hotels neighboring Boulevard Restaurant, based on availability. Boulevard team will book and handle all the details. Nontransferable; mutually agreeable date to be determined with winning bidder. After tonight’s amazing dinner – how can you miss out on this!?

Donor: Nancy Oakes

 

LIVE LOT 18

Dinner for 3 couples at Darioush in Napa Valley with Proprietor Darioush Khaledi; PLUS one Methuselah bottle [6L] 2013 Darius II Cabernet Sauvignon (etched and painted) and 6 magnums [1.5L] (one for each couple)

Darius II Cabernet Sauvignon is the crown jewel of Darioush. A very limited production wine with an intriguing story, history, and art you can explore. A very personal gift from this year’s featured vintner Darioush Khaledi and wife Shahpar – only several large format bottles produced each vintage!

Darius II  is always a stunner that achieves mid-90 ratings from Robert Parker. The 2013 was rated 96 by Robert Parker: once again, the top wine in the vintage for Darioush is their 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Darius II. This is a stunner and compelling, a powerful, classic Cabernet Sauvignon with an opaque purple color and notes of incense, graphite, crème de cassis and blackberry. It is long and rich; accessible now, but should be even better after 3-4 years of cellaring and last 25 or more years.

PLUS, travel to Napa to have lunch with Darioush himself at the winery. The estate spans 120 acres across the Mt. Veeder and Oak Knoll AVAs  – some of the top Cabernet-growing territory in Napa! The winery is one of those wonderfully different and attractive wineries worth visiting even if you don’t drink wine. The buildings and grounds are modeled after Persepolis, the ancient capital of Persia 2,500 years ago, but with many interesting modern twists. You have probably never seen anything like it.

Mutually agreeable date; expires March 3, 2019.

Donor: Darioush

 

LIVE LOT 19

Darren Waterston, Broken Sky, 2014, oil on wood panel, 24×18 inches

Darren Waterston’s atmospheric paintings are filled with elusive imagery resembling primordial environments or microscopic biological systems.  The artist applies a wide array of brush techniques and multiple paint layers to create luminous vistas seemingly formed by alchemy rather than tradition studio methods. Broken Sky stems from a recent series inspired by the poetry of Emily Dickinson, Northern Renaissance altarpieces, and Asian landscapes.  The painting was included in the Waterston’s 2014 exhibition at DC Moore Gallery, named one of Artnet’s “Top 10 New York Gallery Shows.”  A signed copy of the exhibition catalogue is included with this lot.

As Waterston explains, “I set out to construct illusionary spaces that point to another dimension, reality, or sensation of the infinite, always undermining the picture plane. Expressing the nature of this ineffable space requires abstraction, even when it is not labeled as such. The representation of light, refraction, and atmosphere, which has been a constant in my work, has now taken center stage.”

Waterston’s paintings are included in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco; New York Public Library; Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles; Seattle Art Museum; Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; and the Knoxville Museum of Art.  The artist lives and works in New York City.

Donor: Darren Waterston

 

 LIVE LOT 20

Wine Dinner for 24 with 48 Bottles of Heitz Cellar Wine, including a Six-Year (Thirty-Six Bottle) Vertical of famed Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon!

  • Dinner for 24 at an agreed upon location prepared by Jeff Carter and chefs from the Burleson Brands family of restaurants
  • Thirty-six (750ml) bottles of Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon ‘Martha’s Vineyard,’ Napa Valley

o Six bottles from each of the following vintages: 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013

  • Six (750ml) bottles of Heitz Cellar 2015 Chardonnay, Napa Valley
  • Six (750ml) bottles of Heitz Cellar 2017 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Most of us have known Heitz Cellar and their wines for years. And they have been really good years, too. The winery celebrated its 55th Anniversary in 2016. Joe Heitz’s first foray into Napa Valley wines was in 1951 when he signed on to work with the legendary André Tchelistcheff at Beaulieu Vineyard. After a stint in Fresno when he launched the Department of Enology at Fresno State College, Joe and his wife Alice returned to Napa in 1961 and purchased their first vineyard near St. Helena. Heitz’s reputation rapidly grew and spread, making Heitz Cellar a must-visit place for wine lovers. In 1964 the Heitz family acquired a 160-acre vineyard property in Spring Valley, a small fold in the eastern hills of St. Helena. Joe sharpened his focus on Cabernet, and the following year, he and Alice made a serendipitous connection with Tom and Martha May who owned a young vineyard in Oakville. After a handshake deal firm enough to last decades and a single harvest of the May’s remarkable Cabernet grapes, Joe and Tom agreed to reserve the fruit from the next harvest for a singular production. In 1966, Joe Heitz crafted the first Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon — a wine so remarkable that the two families decided to add a vineyard designation to the Heitz Cellars’ label, initiating that concept in the Napa Valley. The first single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley was produced from Martha’s Vineyard! Wine Spectator underscored this wine’s legendary status by selecting Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet as one of the Top 12 wines of the 20th Century.

Your wine dinner for 24 persons includes 6 different vintages of this famous wine – 6 bottles from each vintage. This is a rare vertical of this magnitude and the dinner will be centered on showcasing the magnificence of this wine. Robert Parker has called Martha’s Vineyard a “hallowed vineyard as well as one of Napa Valley’s great historic terroirs.” That’s certainly good enough for us. Not all of these bottles have been rated by the wine critics, Ones that have received 93 – 96 points.

Don’t think that Heitz’s reputation is based solely on Cabernet. Heitz has been making Chardonnay since the beginning in 1961. James Suckling, formerly a critic with Wine Spectator, awarded the 2015 Chardonnay 93 points stating that “real Napa is here.” The Sauvignon Blanc comes from estate fruit from the same vineyard where Heitz grows its port grapes. These two elegant whites will be a great way to start the meal and lubricate the social skills of your guests to prepare for the great vertical of Cab.

To top it off, the meal will be created and served under the direction of Jeff Carter and the master chefs that work in the Burleson Brands Restaurant Group. Jeff is the Executive Chef for the entire domain. We all remember the great work he did at Blackberry Farms and Dancing Bear Lodge. He will work with you to ensure that every attention to detail has been given so that your soirée will be one of the legendary parties of 2018. It’s party time in Tennessee! Thanks to Randy and Melissa Burleson for this fantastic lot.

Donor: Randy and Melissa Burleson

 

LIVE LOT 21

FUND-A-CAUSE: The KMA’s Education Events and Programs

The Knoxville Museum of Art serves over 10,000 students in the surrounding counties through on and off-site workshops, art-integrated partnerships, and outreach programs.

Last year 3,826 children representing 69 schools and community organizations from 14 counties toured the museum.

One of the museum’s most popular programs is the Summer Art Academy for children ages 3 and up, which completed its 27th year last summer. Over 384 students attend and 100 scholarships are awarded to economically disadvantaged youth to ensure accessibility to all.

Another highlight of the education program is the East Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition. This annual exhibition provided the opportunity for 349 students to participate in a juried exhibition and to have their artworks displayed in a professional art museum environment.

 

 LIVE LOT 22

ROAR Wine Dinner for 12 at Bennett Galleries with Photo Composite Artist Maggie Taylor; includes 27 bottles [750mL], ROAR Santa Lucia Highlands wines three each:

  • 2015 Chardonnay, Soberanes Vineyard
  • 2015 Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard
  • 2015 Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard
  • 2015 Pinot Noir, Soberanes Vineyard
  • 2015 Syrah, Rosella’s Vineyard
  • 2016 Chardonnay, Sierra Mer Vineyard
  • 2016 Pinot Noir, Gary’s Vineyard
  • 2016 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands
  • 2016 Pinot Noir, Sierra Mer Vineyard

Acclaimed artist Maggie Taylor first discovered her passion for photography while taking classes as an undergraduate at Yale University. Since then, she has become a famed photo composite artist, with her work displayed at many museums and galleries throughout the country, including the Art Museum at Princeton University, High Museum in Atlanta, and Fogg Art Museum at Harvard University. This spring, Maggie will be coming to Knoxville to host a book signing for her newest work “Through the Looking Glass” at Bennett Galleries. Skip the signing and instead be the first to meet Maggie at a private dinner for 12 hosted by Bennett Galleries, catered by Sunspot Restaurant, and paired with outstanding ROAR Wines.

While surrounded by beautiful works of art and sculpture, you will enjoy a horizontal sampling of ROAR’s 2015 and 2016 vintages of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. ROAR is well known as an exceptional producer of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Viognier in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Ratings range from 91 to 95 on Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate. As Robert Parker put it, “ever since ROAR Pinot Noir blew away a number of great grand cru Burgundies in a blind tasting…I have taken a special interest in following the wines from this producer.”  With limited productions of each of these wines, this is a rare opportunity to sample all that the Franscioni family has to offer.

The winner of this lot will leave the gallery with a signed copy of the artist’s book, which features what she describes as “dreamlike worlds inhabited by everyday objects.” This series of works is a vivid collection of ethereal digital prints inspired by 19th-century photographs and vintage toys.  As a keepsake of this lovely evening you will also take home an original piece of Maggie’s art, only available with her newest book.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enjoy dinner in the company of fine wine, beautiful art, and good company.  Bid now!

Donor: Sunspot Restaurant and Bennett Galleries

 

LIVE LOT 23

VIP package for two guests to the 2018 New York City Wine & Food Festival – October 11-14, 2018

Eat. Drink. End Hunger.

The New York City Wine & Food Festival is one of the hottest events in the United States, let alone New York City. With over 100 events, 500 chefs, and an expected 60,000 attendees, this is one of the biggest cultural events in New York City. Winners will enjoy a VIP experience at this year’s event (October 11-14), as guests of Scripps Network Interactive, and it is all for a good cause – 100% of the net proceeds go to funding the No Kid Hungry campaign and Food Bank for New York City.

Mingle with some of your favorite celebrity chefs while you enjoy a two-night stay at the hosting hotel downtown. This package includes two tickets to the Friday night signature event and Saturday’s Grand Tasting event. Party the night away at Piers 92/94, one of the iconic NYC venues and enjoy exquisite food from featured chefs including Giada de Laurentiis, Anne Burrell, Bobby Flay. If all that doesn’t sound like enough – we are confident our friends at Scripps and Food Network have more in store for you.  Don’t miss out on one of the most exciting cultural events of the year!

NYCWFF is 21+ only, so winner and winner’s guest will need to have identification available at all times when attending any event. Additional event access at the discretion of Food Network and Cooking Channel. No substitutions available, tickets are nontransferable, and dates finite for October 11, 12, 13, and 14 only. Airfare not included.

Donor: Scripps Networks Interactive

 

LIVE LOT 24

Dinner for 12 at Knoxville Beverage Company prepared by Chef Matt Gallaher

All the beauty and panache of a Napa Valley dining experience without leaving Knoxville! Knoxville Beverage Company’s state-of-the-art facility includes a gorgeous veranda – wooden archway, stone fire fit. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres, then a mutli-course dinner prepared by Chef Matt Gallaher, owner of two of Knoxville’s favorite restaurants – Knox Mason and Emila.

He will shop local farmers markets and use in-season local and regional ingredients for your farm-to-table dining experience. Matt worked in the kitchen of Blackberry Farm prior to a four-year world tour of fourteen countries on four continents where he cooked for musicians and rock stars. Experience in creating a menu perfectly paired with wines from the amazing portfolio of Knoxville Beverage – this is a must have! A mutually agreeable date between the distributor, chef, and the winning bidder many be chosen; expires January 30, 2019.

Donor: Knoxville Beverage Company

 

LIVE LOT 25

Six bottles [750mL] Heitz Cellars 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha Vineyard, Napa Valley

Founded in the 1960s, Heitz Cellars is known as one of the “old guards” of Napa Valley and their sought-after Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon was arguably one of the first “cult” wines. A deal made in 1965 between the Heitz family and the May family, the owners of Martha’s Vineyard, allowed for the creation of the first vineyard-designated wine in the Napa Valley. Dedicated to making wine centered on quality, integrity, and innovation, Heitz wines have withstood the test of time and continue to produce excellent wines.

Take home six bottles of Hetiz’s 2013 Martha’s Vineyard vintage, which has a unique mintiness along with notes of contrasting blackberry and nutmeg. Powerful yet elegant, this deep burgundy Cabernet Sauvignon can be enjoyed for many dinner parties and years to come.

Donor: Heitz Cellars

 

LIVE LOT 26

One-Week Vacation in a Luxurious Condominium for up to 6 Guests in Beaver Creek, Colorado. 

Three-bedroom, three and one-half bath, condominium at One Beaver Creek is ski-in/ski-out and located at the base of Centennial ski lift, where the Bever Creek slopes and the village meet. This is Beaver Creek’s premier lodging location and offers every comfort and luxury along with easy access to the slopes. Other amenities include: private in suite baths, balcony and deck overlooking the village and slopes, fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, heated garage, free shuttle access, and on-site bar, lounge, restaurant, and ski shop.

Experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Colorado and even the nation. Beaver Creek is more than a ski town, it is a luxury resort with great adventure on and off the mountain.  It has Old World charm along with modern, lavish amenities. Explore the town with its many shops, and dine in four-star restaurants with award winning chefs, or just chill out at a favorite tavern.

Unavailable the first week in March or the weeks of Christmas and New Years; and January 13-19. A mutually agreeable date may be determined between the home owner and the winning bidder. Expires Feb. 28, 2019.

Donor: Jim Clayton and Michell Witt

 

LIVE LOT 27

Private dinner for up to 20 at PostModern Distilling featuring wine pairings curated by Bistro by the Tracks; PLUS a bottle of PostModern Spirit’s inaugural American Single Malt Whiskey for each guest           

Located in this historic Jackson Terminal, PostModern Spirits is as new addition to the explosive Knoxville beverage scene. The distillery opened in August of last year with a wealth of experience amongst its team. With products ranging from gin and chamomile liqueur to vodka and single malt whiskey, there is truly something for everyone.

The winner of this lot will enjoy a dinner for up to 20 guests at the distillery. Starting with happy hour sampling cocktails made with PostModern’s spirits, of course, and appetizers provided by Chef Danny Wilhoit of Bistro by the Tracks. A multi-course dinner will follow with wine pairings selected by Bistro by the Tracks owner Randy Burleson (not to mention co-chair of this year’s L’Amour du Vin alongside his wife Melissa!).

In this unique experience, you will be seated amongst the action of the distillery and, in fact, be joined by PostModern’s experienced team, including Ron Rrazioso, who oversees their distilling efforts.  Here you will both learn and sample first-hand some of their favorite spirits.

If all of that leaves you parched for more – worry not!  As you depart, each guest will take home an inaugural bottling of PostModern Spirit’s American Single Malt Whiskey.  With this bottle, you will be bringing home both a memento of an incredible evening spent in fine company, as well as a piece of PostModern’s history.  Bid now!

Donor: PostModern Distilling and Bistro by the Tracks

 

LIVE LOT 28

Three-night stay for two at Francis Ford Coppola resort Turtle Inn in Placencia, Belize

Enjoy luxury and unspoiled beauty on a white-sand beach in the Caribbean! Francis and Eleanor Coppola acquired this beachside hideaway in 2001 and created an idyllic refuge for those seeking a relaxing or adventure-filled getaway to Belize. Turtle Inn is a 25-room seafront escape that delights guests with individual thatched cottages, decorated with handcrafted Balinese furnishings, naturally cooled by the ever-present sea breezes. The winning bidder will choose between a Seaview, Seafront, or Poolside Cottage. Each has a private screened porch, a private garden with outdoor shower, and spacious bathroom with a Japanese bath.

In addition to offering an ideal location to experience the sea, Turtle Inn is located a short bicycle ride or walk from the charming sea-front fishing village of Placencia, where local artisan shops and dining spots can be enjoyed.

The resort has  three restaurants: Auntie Luba’s Kitchen, a rustic-style restaurant with  regional favorites like curry chicken, coconut shrimp, and beef stew; Gauguin Grill, a beachfront restaurant featuring fresh, charcoal-grilled seafood; and Turtle Inn’s flagship resturaunt Mare, which has a seasonal menu featuring fresh seafood, Italian favorites, and pizza made to order in a wood-burning oven.

Just steps away from the luxurious infinity pool is The Laughing Fish Bar, which provides a shady retreat to enjoy a wide selection of drinks. You may even catch your bartender preparing your cocktail in a coconut, picked from the palms above. Or, stop by the resort’s second bar Skip White, which features wine and Belize-brewed beer.

Finally, experience a “wine aquarium” – a wall-to-wall glass-encased wine cellar that holds more than 1,200 bottles of award-winning selections from Francis Ford Coppola’s two wineries in Sonoma County (Francis Ford Coppola Winery and Virginia Dare Winery) as well as his Inglenook estate in Napa County, along with many other vintages from Chili, Argentina, Italy, France and the US.

A bottle of Sofia Blanc de Blanc will be waiting for you when arrive; transportation between Belize City airport and Placencia will be provided by the resort. Disclaimer: this package does not include meals, beverages, activities or gratuities at resort. Mutually agreeable date based on availability; expires March 3, 2019.

Donor: Francis Ford Coppola Family Resorts

 

LIVE LOT 29

Wine Dinner for Twenty-Four Prepared by Sunspot Staff Featuring Owen Roe Wines

  • Dinner for up to 24 persons in your home prepared by the chefs of Sunspot
  • Thirty-Six (750ml) bottles of Owen Roe wines:

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2017 Rosé, Yakima Valley

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2015 Chardonnay “Dubrul Vineyard,” Yakima Valley

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2014 Pinot Noir “Clandeboye,” Yamhill-Carlton District, Oregon

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2014 Red Proprietary Wine, Yakima Valley

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2015 Syrah “Red Willow Vineyard, Chapel Block,” Yakima Valley

o Six bottles of Owen Roe 2916 Late Harvest Viognier “The Parting Glass,” Yakima Valley

Surely you know Sunspot. Located on the edge of the UT campus on Cumberland Drive, Sunspot serves an eclectic menu catering to business people, sports fans and the college crowd. Consistently voted Best Vegetarian, Best Brunch, Best Lunch Spot and Best Wine List in Knoxville by Metro Pulse readers, Sunspot caters to both vegetarians and carnivores with a unique, multicultural blend of Southwestern, Caribbean and Latin American cuisines. Cut this staff loose on a dinner in your home and the sky is the limit! The menu variety will be off the charts.

And, what better wine to pair this with than Owen Roe? Made famous by “Sharecropper,” Owen Roe was established in 1999 to feature the interesting wines emanating from the terriors of the Yakima Valley in Washington and the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The “Sharecropper’s” wines were born out of the 2001 recession, when winemaker David O’Reilly and Washington farmers had to work out a partnership that harkened back to the days of sharecropping, where profits were distributed once the wines were made and sold. While that series still exists under its own label, Owen Roe is now producing a nice portfolio of wines in a more traditional method and relationship with growers. These are the wines for your dinner. A few of these wines have been rated and the ones that are consistently score in the low 90s. They are a perfect fun match for the fun cuisine that is coming your way from the Sunspot crew.

Donor: Owen Roe Winery and Sunspot Restaurant

 

LIVE LOT 30

Twelve bottles [750 mL] of Bordeaux : Chateau le Gay 1989 Pomerol; Cos D’Estournel 1990 Saint-Estèphe; Chateau Lusseau 2000 Saint Emilion; Chateau Lafon-Rochet 1989 Saint-Estèphe; Clos l’Eglise 2000 Côtes de Castillon; Château Branaire 2000 Saint-Julien; Château Léoville Las Cases 1994 Saint-Julien; Chateau Pichon-Longueville 1999 Pauillac; Château Troplong Mondot 1994 Saint-Emilion; Château Léoville Barton 1994 Saint-Julien; Château La Gaffelière 2000 Saint-Emilion

Bordeaux is a port city on the Garonne River in the Gironde department in southwestern France. Well-known in the wine world, here are a dozen blockbuster reds from the region! Château le Gay 1989 Pomerol earned a 92 from Robert Parker and 95 from Wine Spectator, described as a tannic monster. Port lovers will love! Cos D’Estournel 1990 Saint-Estèphe – 94-RP – irresistible and ready to drink now. Clos l’Eglise 2000 Côtes de Castillon – rated 90-RP and 90-WS. Robert Parker rated Chateau Lusseau 2000 Saint Emilion – 90; Chateau Lafon-Rochet 1989 Saint-Estèphe – 88; Chateau Lusseau 2000 Saint Emilion – 90; Château Branaire 2000 Saint-Julien – 94; Château Léoville Las Cases 1994 Saint-Julien – 93; Chateau Pichon-Longueville 1999 Pauillac – 87; Château Troplong Mondot 1994 Saint-Emilion – 90; Château Léoville Barton 1994 Saint-Julien – 90; Château La Gaffelière 2000 Saint-Emilion – 91. Finally, Chateau Lynch Bages 2000 Pauillac – rated 97-RP, 96-WS, 95-James Suckling, 95-Wine Enthusiast – perhaps the best of this lot reveals a blossoming bouquet of blackberries, cassis, graphite and pen ink; full-bodied with velvety tannins. Wow! A dozen gems perfect to save or drink now!

Donor: Steve and Laurie Natelson

 

The State of Tennessee prohibits the Knoxville Museum of Art from shipping or delivering wine. All purchases must be picked up from the Knoxville Museum of Art within 7 days of March 4, 2023 or the lot will be forfeited. Pick up times will be provided to all winning bidders upon receipt or can be scheduled in advance by contacting the Dir. of Fundraising Events.