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Each year we gather the finest wine, travel, sport and entertainment experiences, along with some classic sports memorabilia for our auction. Please see below for the great auction lots available at the 11th Annual V Wine Celebration Gala Dinner & Auction at Nickel & Nickel on August 8, 2009. Interested in donating an item to the 2010 auction? Please contact Jadine Garcia at 707-963-0611 or jadine@winecelebration.com. At our 2009 auction we enabled handheld bidding for our Showcase auction items. Showcase Bidding to learn more.
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Share an intimate winemaker’s dinner for 3 couples featuring the wines of John Anthony Vineyards and Lloyd Cellars paired with cuisine from Sean Knight of Go Fish, Cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen, and Mustards. Your hosts for the evening will be Bonnie and Rob Lloyd and Michele and John Anthony Truchard at the private John Anthony Vineyard Estate. The evening begins at sunset on the terrace patio with hors d' oeuvres and a toast overlooking views of the Napa Valley. As you are seated for dinner under the stars, your food will be paired with the award winning wines: John Anthony Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Lloyd Cellars Chardonnay, Lloyd Cellars Pinot Noir, John Anthony Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, and John Anthony Vineyards Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Each couple will leave with a signed magnum of John Anthony Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon and Lloyd Cellars Chardonnay, creating a great memento of the Knight.

DONATION: Dinner for six at John Anthony Estate with winemaker Rob Lloyd, and chef Sean Knight
DONOR: John Anthony Vineyards, Lloyd Cellars, Go Fish
VALUE: $3,000
RESTRICTIONS: Based on mutually agreed upon dates; Transportation expires August 2010


Cakebread Cellars is renowned for their wines but did you know that they have an on-site chef? For more than 30 years, Cakebread Cellars has been committed to promoting the enjoyment of wine with food and the sharing in the pleasures of the table. Chef Brain Streeter will hold the cooking class either in the winery kitchen or at the outdoor barbecue area with a wood-burning oven. Cakebread is one of the few places in Napa Valley to offer hands-on classes so that guests cook and learn alongside their chef and other food and wine lovers. After the class enjoy lunch for you and 17 of your friends or family. Then bring home aprons with the Cakebread Logo, a signed cookbook and a 3 Liter of Cakebread Chardonnay.
DONATION: 3L of Cakebread Chardonnay, Cooking class and lunch for 18, signed cookbook, and logo aprons
DONOR: Cakebread Cellars
VALUE: $3,400
RESTRICTIONS: Based on mutually agreed upon dates; Transportation not included; expires August 2010




Ten fans will have the chance to be treated like former professional players. You'll head off to ORACLE Arena for dinner and a game with Golden State Warriors’ owner, Michael Marks and V Foundation Board Member, in the luxurious Owner’s Suite which boasts commanding views of the court, scrumptious food and multiple televisions on which to view instant replays. Dinner will be paired with rare vintages from Gemstone Vineyard. Package is to be scheduled for a mutually convenient date during the 2009-2010 season.
DONATION: Warriors Game and dinner in the Owner’s Box for 10
DONOR: Golden State Warriors, Michael & Carole Marks, Gemstone Vineyards
VALUE: $5,000
RESTRICTIONS: Based on mutually agreed upon dates; Transportation not included; expires August 2010


Dreaming of spending a week in Cabo San Lucas? Look no further than is incredible package. Spend the perfect week in your own private villa immersed in the luxurious life while you spend seven days exploring the natural beauty of Cabo. Fly into Los Cabos International Airport where you will be greeted with private transportation and then let yourself relax at Casa Patricia located in the exclusive gated community of Villa Serena just 3 miles from Cabo San Lucas. This villa has one of the most unobstructed views of the Bay of Cabo San Lucas and the famous Arch. It is here at Casa Patricia where you can enjoy some of the best sunsets in all of Los Cabos. Casa Patricia shares a community pool and Jacuzzi with a few private homes, just a stone’s throw away. For a change of pace, take an off road trip to the Bohemian town of Todos Santos, just north of Los Cabos in a caravan of H2 Humvees!

The beauty of the Baja out back expedition to Todos Santos is experiencing the natural environment and the occasional oasis! After strolling through the artisan town, a three course meal at La Coronela, in the recently renovated Hotel California, awaits. Be ready to enjoy Cabo like never before!
DONATION: One week at Casa Patricia in Cabo San Lucas for 2 couples A menities include: 3 bedroom, 3 bath home, fully equipped kitchen, satellite TV, outdoor patio with hammock, 2,000 sq. ft. villa. Baja Outback expedition to Todos Santos for 4, lunch for four a La Coronela, roundtrip transportation to and from airport, dinner for 4 at La Casona in the Villa La Estancia Resort
DONOR: Cory & Julie Tiebout, Terramar Destinations & the Villa Group
VALUE: $6,500
RESTRICTIONS: Airfare not included; Must be used by April 2010




Indulge your passion for food, wine, and cooking in an epicurean adventure at the Culinary Institute of America in the beautiful Napa Valley. The Sophisticated Palate Program awakens your senses as you enjoy an ultimate Wine Country culinary experience. Star Chef John Ash will guide you through an exploration of the subtleties of food and wine pairing while you enjoy the camaraderie of fellow food aficionados. And you'll do it all in a region that's home to a vibrant community of chefs and a valley bursting with fresh, flavorful ingredients. The CIA Sophisticated Palate is an unforgettable experience, from hands-on cooking and off-campus, up close and personal excursions, to the shared pleasures of the table. Two couples will relax for four nights at the beautiful Villagio Inn & Spa. Go from your toque to your robe to be pampered with 100 minute spa treatments, and be treated one night for a causally spectacular dinner at Thomas Keller’s restaurant, ad hoc.
DONATION: Four Night Stay for 4 (two rooms) at Villagio Inn & Spa, four one hundred minute spa treatments, Sophisticated Palate Program for 4 and dinner for 4 at Thomas Keller’s restaurant, ad hoc
DONOR: Culinary Institute of America, Villagio Inn & Spa, ad hoc
VALUE: $19,000
RESTRICTIONS: Stay, dinner and program are to be scheduled in advance and some limitations apply. Transportation not included. Package must be used before August 2010.

Your experience begins with VIP access for two to a Dancing with the Stars show filmed at the CBS Studios Lot in Hollywood this Fall! Hosted by Tom Bergeron (America's Funniest Home Videos) and Samantha Harris (E! Entertainment), the celebrities will perform choreographed dance routines, which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba. Following the show, you will be escorted backstage to “meet and greet” with Dancing with the Stars talent and a behind-the-scenes VIP tour, including a sneak peek at the Stars wardrobe!
DONATION: Two tickets to the Dancing with the Stars Show, Behind-the-scenes VIP tour, Dancing with the Stars themed gift basket with a Dancing with the Stars PS2 game other ABC Merchandise
DONOR: ESPN
VALUE: Priceless- This experience cannot be bought
RESTRICTIONS: Based on mutually agreed upon dates during filming; excludes final episodes


The paparazzi may not stalk you, but this trip will make you feel like a celebrity! One lucky couple will jet to LA to blend into the local scene and experience the celebrity lifestyle. Design your own fabulous retreat by arranging your 4 room nights in the order you like at the Beverly Hills Wilshire and the chic Mailbu Beach Inn. While in Beverly Hills squeeze in the time to shop on Rodeo Drive and dine at CUT. Southern California’s most anticipated restaurant in years – CUT and ultra lounge – sidebar, the triad of master chef Wolfgang Puck, renowned architect Richard Meier and the acclaimed Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, became the most excited and talked-about restaurant and lounge threesome in the 21st century.
In Malibu dine at Nobu, where the clientele is even more hip than the interior, and where you'll often find a veritable "who's who" of famous locals in attendance. During the day pamper yourself in the lap of luxury at CURE Spa in Malibu and then enjoy dinner at the highly revered, contemporary, stylish but casual Charlie’s. You know, Malibu. Don’t be shocked if neighbors, Eva Longoria-Parker and Tony Parker, end up being a part of the trip. They are known for their graciousness when friends are in town. Be sure to pack the sun block and designer sunglasses!

DONATION: 2 nights at The Beverly Hills Wilshire and 2 nights at the Malibu Beach Inn, Dinner for 2 at Nobu, Dinner for 2 at Charlie’s, Dinner for 2 at CUT; spa appointments for 2 at CURE Spa
DONOR: Tom Pallack & Dr. Lisa Benya
VALUE: $5,000
RESTRICTIONS: Based on availability; expires in August 2010; Airfare and transportation not included

Upgrade your kitchen with tile or hardwood flooring, oak cabinets, granite countertops, tile backsplashes and a four piece GE appliance package that includes a refrigerator, a stove or cooktop, oven and a dishwasher. Or, use the $20,000 credit to customize this package for your dream kitchen.
DONOR: Andrew Liebert, Creative Touch Interiors
RESTRICTIONS: No masonry work included. Not available in certain states.

Be part of Monday Night Football Action in the City by the Bay. You and a guest will receive NFL tickets for the San Francisco 49er’s vs. Arizona Cardinals at Monster Park. Join ESPN as our guests for the December 14th match-up between the Phoenix Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers in San Francisco.
Your day will begin with lunch as you join ESPN’s franchise “Chalk Talk.” ESPN and the NFL have partnered together for the past two seasons to host the MNF “Chalk Talk” Luncheon Series to help build excitement for each week’s game, shine the national spotlight on the host city and celebrate corporate outreach efforts in the local community. This year’s luncheons will feature Hall Of Fame players from the 49ers. The list of potential alumni could include: Ronnie Lott, Joe Montana and Jerry Rice. After lunch, your group will be escorted to the stadium and be treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium and ESPN Production facilities followed by Monday Night Football and four seats to this great match-up.

Stay overnight at the luxurious InterContinental San Francisco Hotel, a graceful tower of translucent cool blue that soars 32 stories above the South of Market neighborhood. Savor a day in the City and then dinner at Mobil 5 Star rated and James Beard Award-winning chef Gary Danko’s. Gary Danko has come to epitomize fine dining San Francisco style. Eschewing the white-glove formality of yesteryear's fine dining, Danko offers impeccable cuisine and perfectly orchestrated service in an unstuffy environment, complements the restaurant's décor, a mélange of relaxed California modern and Upper East Side chic.
DONATION: Tickets for 2 in December ’09 to the NFL Monday Night Football Game of the San Francisco Giants versus the Arizona Cardinals on Monday December 14, 2009, lunch and behind the scenes tour of the stadium, tour of ESPN Production facilities and 1 room for two nights for 2 people at the Intercontinental hotel, Gift certificate for $400 at Gary Danko’s
DONOR: ESPN Network
VALUE: $3,500
RESTRICTIONS: Date December 13-15, 2009; Airfare and transfers not included
59. Saveurs & PassionThis memorable day will start with an exclusive visit of the newly planted Morlet Family Estate in Knights Valley, overlooking majestic Mount St. Helena. From here the party will travel 2,000 feet up the mountain to experience Peter Michael Winery’s spectacular ‘Côte Deux Milles.’ Luc Morlet will then guide you through the brand new caves of Chateau Boswell Winery in St. Helena, where the Morlet wines are hand-crafted. In the coolness of the gorgeous underground caves, dug through the volcanic rock, a tasting of the upcoming releases of Morlet Family Vineyards wines will await you. Lunch will then be provided at AKA in beautiful downtown St. Helena, followed by a rare visit to the newly built Vineyard 7 & 8 state of the art winery, located at the very top of Spring Mountain. As you preview the 2007 Estate Cabernet, you will enjoy the remarkable views of upper Napa Valley and the Palisades. The day will culminate with a special dinner at Terra Restaurant which will include a selection of wines from Luc and Jodie’s private cellar. As souvenirs from this wonderful day, you will take home two double-magnums: 2007 ‘La Proportion Dorée’ (Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle from Sonoma County) and 2007 ‘Coeur de Vallée’ (Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer-ToKalon of Napa Valley). That evening check in to the historic Napa River Inn, which captures the allure of Wine Country.

DONATION: One memorable day touring and tasting with Luc Morlet, Winemaker and Proprietor of Morlet Family Vineyards. Tours and tastings of top wineries in Knights Valley and Napa Valley as well as lunch at AKA and dinner at Terra Restaurant, including a wine selection from Luc and Jodie Morlet’s private cellar. Two double-magnums souvenirs: 2007 ‘La Proportion Dorée’ and 2007 ‘Coeur de Vallée.’ One-night stay for six in three Historic Deluxe rooms at Napa River Inn, including breakfast at Sweetie Pies and wine tasting at Silos
DONOR: Luc & Jodie Morlet, Peter Michael, Vineyard 7 & 8, Chef Hiro Sone and Terra, Napa River Inn, AKA restaurant
VALUE: $5,000
RESTRICTIONS: Based upon availability; expires July 31, 2010. Not available August, September, October

Do you ever wonder how Napa Valley might have been before it became a wine capital? Look no further than the Scully Ranch compound. The Scully Estate Ranch boasts of 7 bedrooms, with 5 queen size beds and 2 twin bedrooms. The ranch can comfortably accomidate up to 14 people in 2 houses and 3 cabins. All accommodations have been restored and decorated for the period, but are updated with modern conveniences. There are multiple kitchens, barbecues and a large spa. The “Apple Barn” has been restored as a recreation center for indoor/outdoor dining, dancing, wine tastings and fun. Orchards, gardens and vineyards surround the ranch buildings creating a perfect country setting. Relax among the miles of private roads & trails through the vineyards and several bre
athtaking spots where you can stargaze, watch the hot air balloons, enjoy the hot tub, play pool, fish in the reservoir pond, partake in a wine and cheese pairing by one of our local aficionados, and a specially prepared dinner from Napa’s own Richard Haake of Winery chefs, a master of food & wine pairing. Most foods will come from the organic gardens. Experience the country lifestyle of Napa Valley as it should be!

DONATION: 3 night and 4 day stay at the Scully Ranch, and dinner at the ranch one night prepared by Richard Haake of Winery Chefs
DONOR: Irene Scully, Richard Haake
VALUE: $6,000
RESTRICTIONS: Valid for only 1 year, expires August 2010; Some date restrictions may also apply.

Membership in Sentient Jet offers the ultimate in travel, private flights aboard a fleet of corporate jet aircraft. Leave when you want, go in comfort, and arrive rested and on-time. Planes are available 24/7, 365 days a year and can be arranged with as little as ten hours notice. Sentient Jet service area includes the continental United States, the Caribbean and Mexico and intra-Europe. Experience the best in air travel with this $10,000 Sentient Jet Flight Card.
DONATION: Sentient Flight Card to be used at bidder’s discretion
DONOR: Sentient Jet
VALUE: $10,000

Blending the world of old and new in a renovated building from the early 1900s, Ma(i)sonry is a unique wine salon and art gallery. Ma(i)sonry offers a unique
lifestyle experience in wine country. Originally built in 1904 as a private residence, the manor is one of three stone buildings in Yountville, and one of only two listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The setting is reminiscent of a home or a private club, framing a highly edited collection of furnishings and artwork. The furnishings, range from 16th century to mid-twentieth century and are paired with contemporary works crafted by today's top designers. The collections of art on display include Napa Valley favorites, the best in the Bay Area as well as some of the most respected names worldwide, all of which will be available for purchase. Enjoy an exclusive tour of the gallery and taste the various wines for you and five other friends. Also include
d in this package are these wines: 3 Liter 2006 “Illusion” Blackbird Vineyards Proprietary Wine etched, 3 Liter 2004 J. Daniel Cuvee Lail Vineyards etched, 1.5 Liter 2003 Brown Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 3 Liter 2005 ‘Stags Leap’ Renteria Wines Cabernet Sauvignon etched, 1.5 Liter 2005 Pedras Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1.5 Liter 2005 Mast-Cimarossa TOR Family Estate Wines Cabernet Sauvignon.
DONATION:
Tour of Ma(i)sonry wine shop and gallery and six large format bottles of wine
DONOR: Ma(i)sonry, Blackbird Vineyards, Lail Vineyards, Brown Estate, Renteria Wines, Pedras Wine Company, and TOR Family Wine Estate
VALUE: $2,800
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The 2006 Cabernet exhibits enticing aromas of ripe black currant, blueberry and cola introduce this bold, yet harmonious wine. A supple yet focused palate reveals round flavors of juicy blackberry, cacao and espresso. An elegant, poised finish is prolonged by finely knit tannins and displays hints of cinnamon, cedar and nutmeg. The Quintessential Wine Experience for Eight - For over three decades, Proprietor Darioush Khaledi has sought out the world's finest wines, aspiring to create the quintessential collection. Knowing that the true value in collecting wine is sharing with friends and family, you are cordially invited to explore, select and compare the world's most celebrated wines in this member-exclusive event we call Quintessential. Begin the journey with Krug champagne and caviar, then peruse Darioush's extensive collection of First Growth Bordeaux and decide upon a Mouton Rothschild or Margaux to experience alongside Darius II Cabernet Sauvignon, the 'Crown Jewel' of the Darioush estate. We look forward to your company.

DONATION: One Etched 2006 6L Darioush Cabernet Sauvignon and Quintessential tasting experience for eight with First Growth Bordeaux and Mouton Rothschild or Margaux alongside Darius II Cabernet Sauvignon
DONOR: Darioush
VALUE: $3,500

For centuries Yquem has been unchallenged as the finest example of Sauternes and the most famous sweet wine in the world. A dramatically rich wine of dizzying complexity and extravagant depth, it is capable of aging effortlessly for several decades. Vine yields are tiny, with perfectly botrytized grapes harvested in a number of labor-intensive passes through the vineyard, and the wine undergoes three years or more of aging in new oak barrels. The estate's history dates to 1593, and since 1855, Yquem has existed literally in a class of its own—the only wine from Sauternes and Barsac labeled a Premier Cru Supérieur. Each 375ml bottle is valued at over $325 per bottle.
Expert Ratings:
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 99 points
Wine Spectator: 95 points
DONATION: Twenty four 375ml bottles 1990 Chateau d’Yquem
DONOR: Lou Cole, V Wine Celebration Board
VALUE: $7,800


