Lot #18 – Wine and Adventure in Chile

Embark on an extraordinary culinary and wine adventure through the stunning city of Santiago, Chile, and its surrounding wine regions. This private luxury journey for two offers an opportunity to explore South America’s sophistication and natural beauty while tasting some of the best wines and cuisine in the world.

This exceptional trip includes stays at three of the most spectacular hotels in the region. First, you will spend two nights at the historic Lastarria boutique hotel, in Santiago’s most stylish neighborhood. Situated in an area brimming with history and surrounded by the best museums, galleries, shops, theaters and restaurants, Lastarria offers unrivaled personal service and the chance to discover the tremendous diversity of the city right outside the door.

Explore the exciting city for two glorious days, including an exclusive private tour and tasting at the nearby Santa Carolina Winery. With over 135 years of history,
the award-winning Santa Carolina Winery is one of Chile’s oldest vineyards.

After your time in Santiago, head south where you will spend two luxurious nights at the incomparable and newly opened Viña Vik Hotel. The hotel sits high in the untamed hills, with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Andes mountain range in the distance. Spend a day discovering the magic of the unique Viña Vik winery in Millahue, the “place of gold,” with a private tour. Your stay also includes on-site activities such as trekking, horseback riding and biking, or you can visit numerous other neighboring vineyards to sample more of Chile’s finest wines.

Next, venture even further afield where your journey concludes with two nights at Puma Lodge, nestled high in the Andes and located on a nature preserve. Lose yourself in the majesty of the mountains and the area’s dazzling scenery. In the winter, Puma Lodge offers exclusive heli-skiing, while in the summer you can try heli-hiking (with a view of the glaciers), fishing and biking. After so much outdoor activity, you may want to relax at the spa or delight in a delicious meal at the lodge’s world-class restaurant with wines from its well-stocked cellar.

Indulge your inner wanderlust and discover all the wonders of South America.

Offer valid between October 1, 2014 and October 1, 2015.
Based on double occupancy. Booking must be made at least 90 days prior to departure. Blackout period applies from
December 10, 2014–January 15, 2015*.
*See hotel restrictions for any additional date exclusions.
Airline vouchers good for 2 tickets from a major US airport to Santiago, Chile.

OPENING BID
$12,000

INCLUDES
Three Two-Night Stays for Two
Two Tours and Tastings for Two
Private Ground Transportation and Airport Transfers
Two Airline Tickets

DONOR
Absolute Travel
New York, NY

 

 

Lot #17 – Cowboy Christmas in Vegas

Every December Las Vegas turns into a cowboy town when it plays host to the Super Bowl of Rodeo, the Wrangler National Finals. Cyril and Blakesley Chappellet invite two couples to join them for two days to experience Las Vegas gone country. Y’all will spend two nights in the lap of luxury staying at one of the top resorts on the Strip while taking in a night at the rodeo, a country music show and dining at some of the best restaurants in Vegas.

To kick off your adventure, you’re going shopping. You can’t go to the Wrangler National Finals in anything but Wrangler garb, so it’s off to “Cowboy Christmas” where our friends at Wrangler will get you decked out in their finest and ready for a night at the rodeo.

As soon as y’all are properly dressed it’s high time to go behind the scenes and get up close to the athletes who compete for the title of World Champion. You’ll meet the broncs, bulls, ladies and gents who buck hard, ride fast or throw a rope with precision. You might even be lucky enough to shake the hand of Wrangler athlete Trevor Brazile, an 11-time All-Around World Champion Cowboy.

Of course, in Vegas it’s all about the nightlife. One night you’ll don your Wranglers and experience the non-stop action of the rodeo. The next night you’ll be serenaded by country music superstar Shania Twain at her incredible “Still the One” show. The Chappellets will treat y’all to dinner before the rodeo and the show at two of their favorite Vegas eateries, Thomas Keller’s Bouchon and Mark LaRusso’s Botero   Steakhouse.

And, to stock your cellar and toast to a great time in Vegas you’ll take home a case plus a Double Magnum of Chappellet’s 2012 Pritchard Hill Estate Cabernet Sauvignon this evening. The pinnacle of winemaking at Chappellet, this wine has the provenance and top scores that place it as a World Champion Napa Cabernet.

Travel must take place December 7-10, 2014. Shania Twain tickets may be substituted for another country music performer based on show schedule.

OPENING BID
$10,000

INCLUDES
Two-Night Stay for Four
Four Tickets to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
Four Tickets to a Las Vegas Show
Wrangler Shopping Spree for Four
Wrangler VIP Experience for Four
Two Dinners for Four
One 3-Liter Bottle
Twelve 750ml Bottles

DONORS
Cyril & Blakesley
Chappellet

Chappellet Winery
St. Helena, California

Wrangler, Inc.

 

 

Lot #16 – The Wild West of Napa

Round up your gang and head to the Napa Valley! Farmer Tom Gamble has generously donated his well-hidden four bedroom hideout for four nights. It has enough space for eight outlaws and even has a swimming hole in the back. Tom will be on hand to host you for a one-on-one lay of the land of his Oakville Vineyards, as well as to share some of his private stash wine.  Tom’s family has been farming Napa Valley since 1916 and he is looking forward to sharing all his stories with tonight’s highest bidder.

Cowgirl Suzanne “Sassy” Pavitt runs a beverage barn to the north that is a must-see, and she has inspired many a couple with her magical “Date Night” wines. Her wit, charm, and wines are leading to a great future. You will be joining her for an afternoon feast while she explains the repurposing of all her equipment and buildings.

High atop Diamond Mountain, your final host will be lawman Peter Thompson. He has staked out a property high up on the hill to keep an eye on everyone down below. Follow him up the trail for a traditional western cookout along with gems from his own wine collection, named after his two outlaw sons, Andrew and Geoffrey.

To keep you nice and busy during your stay, the finest tracker in the land is going to make sure you see the absolute best of what our area has to offer. You might visit wineries you have only heard of or up-and-comers that the locals try to keep private…either way, you will not go away thirsty or uninformed.

And that’s not all, folks. You will also dine at the grandest place in the land, The French Laundry. Chef Keller’s gourmet “frank and beans” are legendary, and apparently he is fixin’ to make a dozen other courses for your entire group! Normal folks wait months to get into his place, but tonight’s highest bidder is guaranteed a table for eight.

Wait, there’s more…

To whet your whistle and keep ya’ll excited about the trip ahead, your three hosts are also sending you home with some wine. So bid high, bid often, and come see how the West HAS won!

OPENING BID
$6,000

INCLUDES
Four-Night Stay for Eight
Private Winery Tours and Tasting for Eight
Custom Napa Winery Tour Day for Eight
Transportation for your Napa Winery Tour Day
Lunch and Tour for Eight
Dinner for Eight
Guaranteed Dinner Reservation for Eight at French Laundry (90 days notice required) Dinner costs not included
Three Magnum Bottles

DONORS
Gamble Family Vineyards
Oakville, California

Andrew Geoffrey Vineyards
St. Helena, California

Phifer Pavitt Wine
Calistoga, California

Scotti Stark
Stark Advantage

Beau Wine Tours

French Laundry
Yountville, California

 

 

Lot #15 – At Home In Hawaii

Experience true Hawaiian spirit and the ultimate in relaxation with a week at this magnificent and secluded home on the Big Island of Hawaii. The luxury vacation estate is aptly named “Hale Pau Hana,” which roughly translates as “The House to Go to When Work Is Done.” And is it ever that. Nestled on slightly less than an acre of land at the famous Mauna Kea Resort, this perfect island retreat boasts spectacular ocean views from every room. You won’t ever want to leave.

First, the house. Three pavilions connected by open breezeways house five exquisite bedrooms. Lush Hawaiian gardens and water features surround the entire home, an architectural masterpiece. The living room, which is completely open to the warm, tropical Hawaiian air, is beautifully furnished and decorated with gorgeous artwork and Asian antiques. Enjoy your favorite tropical drinks at the poolside bar or lounge in the hot tub tucked just behind the waterfall at the far end of the pool. On the off chance you feel like leaving this palatial abode, you will find yourselves only minutes from The Mauna Kea Resort and use of all its amenities, including access to the famous white sand beach, massive pool, state-of-the-art health club, and tennis courts galore. Additionally, you will enjoy discounted rates at the world-famous Robert Trent Jones golf course.

Next, the dinner. Your group will be treated to a sumptuous dinner prepared by local chef, Robin Dylan. Her innovative dishes are diverse and rich in the many cultures of Hawaii. Only the finest ingredients and freshest vegetables, which come from local farmers, will find their way into the kitchen and onto your plate for an unforgettable meal.

Finally, the cruise. Spend one of your glorious days in Mauna Kea out on the water on a charter sailing cruise. “Maile,” an elegant 50-foot Gulfstar Sloop, which has been beautifully renovated and restored, will take you on an ocean tour of the Big Island. Pack a picnic and discover hidden spots, returning just in time to enjoy the sunset from the deck of this beautiful boat.

Not a bad way to spend a week, wouldn’t you say?

Not available December 15, 2014-January 31, 2015 or February 13-22, 2015. All items included in this lot are subject to availability.

OPENING BID
$12,000

INCLUDES
Six-Night Stay for Ten
One Catered dinner for Ten
Charter Sailing Cruise for Ten

DONOR
Dave & Sarah Woodward

 

 

Lot #14 – Double the Fun

Alpine skiing, fine dining, stupendous wines? Yes, please. Do not let this lot pass you by. Drew Bledsoe, former NFL quarterback and proprietor of Doubleback Winery, will join you for this experience of a lifetime in beautiful Bend, Oregon. Two couples will be treated to a day of skiing at Mt. Bachelor with Drew and his lovely wife, Maura, followed by a special winemaker dinner at The Loft of Bend, a private downtown social club. This unique and exclusive space is the perfect setting for an unforgettable meal, featuring several of Doubleback’s best vintages along with a surprise selection of wines from Drew and Maura’s private cellar. We couldn’t think of a better way to après.

While in Bend, you will spend two nights at the luxurious Tetherow Lodges. This new boutique property overlooks the award-winning David McLay Kidd championship golf course, which borders the Deschutes National Forest and boasts stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. It is the perfect base camp for all of your adventures.

And, since ski season might feel a little far away, tonight’s lucky bidder will take home one case and one magnum of the 2011 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon as tantalizing reminders of all the good things to come when the snow starts to fall again.

Date to be mutually agreed upon. Expires one year from the date of auction.

OPENING BID
$5,000

INCLUDES
Two-Night Stay for Four
Dinner for Four
Lift Tickets for Four
Twelve 750ml Bottles
One 1.5-Liter Bottle

DONOR
Doubleback Winery
Walla Walla, Washington

Drew & Maura Bledsoe

 

 

Lot #13 – The Private Event of a Lifetime

Hold onto your hats, folks. This is one for the books. An exclusive party of all parties with spectacular wines, followed by a small, private concert with country music legend Keith Urban. Yes, you read that right.

First, the two of you will fly first class to San Francisco from any western state. Your stay will be for 2 nights at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, a 5-star retreat. On the night of the concert your driver will pick you up and deliver you to the venue to experience a party like no other.

But that’s just the start. Let’s get to the real heart of the matter. Usually, a star like Keith Urban performs for sold-out crowds in the tens of thousands at huge
outdoor venues. But this time, you and a companion get intimate access to this popular Grammy-winning artist whose songs repeatedly appear at the top of
country music charts. Your personal car service for the night will drop you at this private home where you can mingle with the musicians before the concert at an exclusive meet and greet session. Get ready for an up close and personal encounter with Keith himself…this is like a backstage pass on steroids.

Along with this VIP schmoozing, let yourselves be pampered by top-notch culinary staff and an impressive slate of award-winning wineries that are on board for the evening, including Kistler, Kosta Browne, Gemstone, Blue Farm and Chappellet. They are all ready and waiting to prepare a knockout experience
paired with perfect wines.

Make all your friends jealous and dance the night away to the magical sounds of Keith Urban and friends. These are memories that will last a lifetime.

Concert will be held on September 12, 2014 at Michael and Carole Marks’ home in Woodside, California.

OPENING BID
$20,000

INCLUDES
Two-Night Stay for Two
First Class Airline Tickets for Two
Two Tickets to a Private Concert
Private Car Service for Two to and from Concert
Dinner and Wine for Two

DONORS
Michael & Carole Marks
Borman Entertainment

Blue Farm Wines
Santa Rosa, California

Chappellet Winery
St. Helena, California

Gemstone Vineyard
Yountville, California

Kistler Vineyard
Sebastopol, California

Kosta Browne Winery
Sebastopol, California

 

 

Lot #12 – Organic Excellence

The Peay brothers are doing something right. Along with winemaker Vanessa Wong, Nick and Andy have found a way to tame a dramatically beautiful corner of the rugged northern Sonoma County coast, only four miles from the Pacific Ocean, and produce world-class wines that score consistently in the high 90s. And they do it organically. This is no small feat. When you taste a wine from Peay, it will make you stop dead in your tracks.

Peay Vineyards is most definitely a place you want to visit. And with this package, you can do just that. Walk the land with Nick and learn more about this unique vineyard, the weather, the soil…and then rest your tired legs as you enjoy a tasting on the porch with staggering views of the surrounding hills. Later in the evening, a private chef will prepare a decadent dinner for your group at the Peay Barn House with a selection of the estate’s wines. After such a rich meal and exceptional wines, you can retire for the evening, fully sated, right there at the Barn House.

In the morning, venture inland to the heart of Napa Valley, where an adventure at Long Meadow Ranch Winery awaits you. Long Meadow Ranch is a busy place. They produce award-winning wines, olive oil, grass-fed beef, eggs, honey, and heirloom fruits and vegetables from three locations in and around the Mayacamas Mountains, all using an integrated organic farming system. Visitors to the estate are treated to a true feast for the senses.

And a feast you shall have! Start your stay at Long Meadow Ranch with an estate tour and tasting, followed by lunch at their Farmstead restaurant in St. Helena. As the sun sets on another astounding day, indulge in the private dinner prepared for you by the estate’s executive chef and spend the night at the charming guesthouse on the property.

And just in case that isn’t enough to tempt you, each couple will take home a set of two Magnums after tonight’s auction. Don’t let this one pass you by!

Visit to be scheduled at a mutually convenient time period for all parties. Offer expires one year from the auction. Not available September – November.

OPENING BID
$4,000

INCLUDES
Two Private Dinners for Six
Lunch for Six
Two Tours and Tastings for Six
Two One-Night Stays for Six
Six 1.5-Liter Bottles

DONORS
Long Meadow
Ranch & Winery
St. Helena, California

Peay Vineyards
Cloverdale, California

 

 

Lot #11 – Bourbon and Betting… Lucky in Kentucky

Are you a horse lover? Do you like to gamble? What about fine bourbon and cuisine? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you best head out for Lexington with this hot-to-trot package and get lucky in Kentucky. Lexington is known as the “Horse Capital of the World” and is right smack in the heart of the state’s scenic Bluegrass Region. This is where champion racehorses and super-premium bourbons are produced, right down the road from each other.

Tonight, two couples have the chance to live large in Lexington for five days, enjoying the most that this exciting area has to offer. Your trip begins at Three Chimneys Farm in the heart of horse breeding country. At Three Chimneys Farm, “the idea is excellence” and this full-service thoroughbred horse farm raises some of the superstars of the thoroughbred world. Tour its beautifully manicured grounds and impressive barns. Famous equine residents include 2008 Derby winner Big Brown.

Of course, you can’t go to Lexington without a trip to the races. The four of you can take it all in at Keeneland’s thoroughbred racetrack with box seats for two days. Enjoy a hosted lunch at the legendary and historic Thoroughbred Club of America before the races on Friday and then experience the thrill and
tradition of this racetrack, a National Historic Landmark. As an extra bonus, you will be joined at the races by a horse industry insider.

After the races you might be inspired to take a closer look at a few more of the places where these amazing animals are raised. Many famous Kentucky horse farms are not open to the general public, but you will get special treatment and private tours at Airdrie Stud, home of former Governor Brereton C. Jones, and WinStar Farms, where the 2010 Kentucky Derby Winner Super Saver was bred.

Lexington takes pride in time-honored traditions, and bourbon is one hand-crafted Kentucky product that is revered around the world. Lexington’s proximity to the world’s finest bourbon distilleries makes it the perfect base for exploring the rich heritage of America’s native spirit. The mystique of the region’s historic distilleries, with tantalizing smells, secret recipes, and legendary characters, begs to be explored.

Learn the ins and outs of the renowned Kentucky bourbon industry with two private distillery tours. The first, Woodford Reserve, is a National Historic
Landmark nestled between thoroughbred horse farms, turning out premium small-batch bourbon for its fans. Next, visit the famous Buffalo Trace Distillery.
In addition to its own flagship label, Buffalo Trace produces several other finely crafted bourbons, including Blanton’s and cult favorite Pappy Van Winkle. This is why the state is called “the birthplace of bourbon.”

And let’s not forget about the food! In between all the bourbon stops, join more horse industry folks―breeders and owners―for lunch at a favorite local deli
spot, Wallace Station, along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. That evening, enjoy a multi-course dinner and bourbon tasting at Dudley’s on Short in Lexington, a mainstay of the city’s dining scene. Dudley’s bustling street level bar and cozy rooftop lounge proudly pour some of the best Kentucky bourbons.

And, if you’re interested in even more Kentucky history and heritage, get a load of this…a private tour of the iconic Beaux-Arts Kentucky Governor’s Mansion in Frankfort, a proud symbol of Kentucky’s history that has served as home to the state’s governors since 1914.

Your private tour guide for the entire visit will be Garth Waterfield, who foaled and helped to raise this year’s Belmont winner, Tonalist. Garth will be at your disposal for driving, tours and introductions to horse industry insiders.

Tuesday through Saturday timing recommended for a mutually agreeable date.

OPENING BID
$7,000

INCLUDES
Lunch for Four
Three Horse Farm Tours for Four
Two Distillery Tours for Four
Bourbon Tasting and Lunch or Dinner for Four
Governor’s Mansion Tour and Lunch for Four
Private Local Tour Guide
Box Seats for Two Days for Four

DONORS
Waterfield Family
Jones Family
Dudley’s on Short
John Baughman
Three Chimneys Farm
Van Winkle Family

 

 

Lot #10 – Welcome to Wine Camp

Nestled in the spectacular Sawtooth Mountains amid snowcapped peaks and the meandering Salmon River, high alpine adventure and backcountry relaxation
await you at the Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch, as do fine wines and cuisine. Experience the historic charm and modern comforts of the Ranch with this one-of-a-kind overnight…an evening of Wine Camp in your own private Idaho.

For generations people have been discovering the Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch and returning as part of the family. Discover the allure of this enchanting place. Six couples will venture north to enjoy the solitude and peace of this 1000-acre ranch, offering freedom, breathtaking natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Surrounded by the largest protected wilderness area in the “lower 48,” the Ranch atmosphere is friendly and casual, and the view from the front porch… positively mind-blowing. The first order of business upon arrival is a wine tasting on the porch with a local sommelier―sample top-notch wines as you marvel at the mountains in the distance. Follow that up with a luxurious soak in the Ranch’s natural hot springs pool.

After you’ve reached your full relaxation potential, you’ll want to regroup for the fabulous dinner that’s in store for you. Ranch chef Jordan Boutry will be preparing a multi-course meal paired with fantastic wines. Jordan strives to use local, organic, sustainable products whenever possible, merging international and continental flavors to create an unforgettable dining experience. And the magnums will be flowing―a Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Rivera Vineyards, a gorgeous Chardonnay from The Donum Estate, and a Pinot Noir from Blue Farm Wines.

When you wake up the next morning, be sure to leave time for a hike or another soak in the pool and then enjoy a hearty breakfast in the dining room before you say goodbye to Wine Camp.

Date of overnight will be September 14, 2014.

OPENING BID
$8,000

INCLUDES
One-Night Stay for Twelve
Tasting for Twelve
Wine Dinner for Twelve
Breakfast for Twelve

DONOR
Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch
Stanley, Idaho

Blue Farm Wines
Sonoma, California

Rivera Vineyards
Napa, California

The Donum Estate
Sonoma, California

 

 

Lot #9 – Blissful Baja

At the CostaBaja Resort & Spa in Mexico, you can unwind in style. Escape to this quiet and secluded destination on the Gulf of California, just up the beach from the charming and modern city of La Paz on the Sea of Cortez. The resort’s setting is magical, surrounded by the raw beauty of the mountains and the ocean. Stroll along the white sand beach, float in the infinity pool, lounge with a good book, explore the nearby shops in La Paz, all at your leisure.

Your group of four will enjoy four nights in a luxurious penthouse suite at CostaBaja. The suites are outfitted with all the modern comforts and boast stunning views. While at the resort, indulge yourself at the Espiritu Spa, where the staff will guide you toward complete and total relaxation. Choose a night and be treated to an evening meal for four at Azul Marino, a charming restaurant at the marina with outdoor seating and a robust menu with fresh world-class seafood, thin crust pizza, and of course, an excellent wine list.

But that’s not all. You will also want to find time during your stay to hone your golfing skills. This amazing package includes unlimited rounds of golf for four on the resort’s gorgeous Gary Player Signature Course. The course offers panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez and spectacular greens and rolling hills. In between rounds of golf, tonight’s lucky bidders will spend a thrilling day on a 42-foot Tiara fishing boat. These motor yachts are the epitome of modern luxury and the area is known for its exciting sport fishing. A day out on the water will have you grinning from ear to ear and you will surely return with some stories to tell. Closer to land, there are countless other activities to keep you entertained―sea kayaking, diving, tennis, paddle boarding―you can’t go wrong with a trip to CostaBaja.

Not transferrable, accommodations subject to availability, expires December, 2015.

OPENING BID
$5,000

INCLUDES
Four-Night Stay for Four
Unlimited Golf for Four
Fishing Excursion for Four
Dinner for Four
Private Airport Shuttle for Four

DONOR
Dave & Trish Wilson
CostaBaja Resort & Spa
La Paz, Mexico