Everything You Need to Know About the Napa Valley Wine Auction

Events in California’s wine country are nothing short of spectacular. But, when an event allows you to give back to the community, it’s even more special. The Napa Valley Wine Auction is just this sort of function. It combines private parties hosted by vintners, a world-renowned auction celebration, and the chance for you to bid on more than 100 lots, including wine tastings, rare collections and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Plus, the proceeds go to local charities to help fund community health and children’s education. It’s the ultimate win-win affair. How can you get in on the auction? Continue reading to find out!

Napa Valley is well known for its wine and fine dining, but there’s so much more to this famed destination than meets the eye. The way the local businesses care for the community is immediately evident through events such as the Napa Valley Wine Auction. Find out about other annual festivals you won’t want to miss when you download our free Napa Vacation Guide. Stay in accommodations that simultaneously give you luxury as well as close access to the numerous events in Napa Valley when you choose Churchill Manor!

What to Expect at the Napa Valley Wine Auction

Since the event began in 1981, more than $180 million in Auction Napa Valley proceeds have been awarded to area nonprofits. Just last year, the Napa Valley Wine Auction raised more than $15 million. That number was reached due to ticket sales for events like a private performance by Leon Bridges and dining parties, which Francis Ford Coppola himself cooked for last year. The events are held on-site at some of the most beautiful wineries in Napa Valley. That number is also due to attendance, and the bidding that takes place at the main event: the Live Auction Celebration at Meadowood Resort.

This year’s celebration will be held May 27-June 3, 2018, and here’s what you can expect!

Here’s the full lineup for 2018:

Sunday, May 27, 2018

Auction Napa Valley E-Auction opens at noon, featuring nearly 200 lots.

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Vintner Welcome Parties, 6 p.m. into the evening held at various wineries throughout Napa Valley.

Friday, June 1, 2018

Napa Valley Barrel Auction, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Charles Krug, St. Helena

This is the largest barrel tasting and auction of its kind, and it is hosted at Napa Valley’s very first winery—Charles Krug. You can taste wine straight out of the barrels they were aged in while bidding for single cases of each. Outside, there will be a wine and food pathway that represents Napa Valley through offerings from local restaurants as well as a range of wines.

Later in the evening, enjoy Vintner-Hosted Dinners, from 6 p.m. into the evening. These intimate, elegant dinners are held at wineries throughout Napa Valley.

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Live Auction Celebration, 1 – 9 p.m. at Meadowood Napa Valley. Enjoy the reception with light wines including aromatic whites and rosés while taking a sneak peek at what some of the offerings will be. And then of course there is the main event: the live auction! Afterward, dinner will be prepared by Nancy Oaks, and if you so desire, attend the after-party at 9 p.m. at The Charter Oak.

Sunday, June 3, 2018

E-Auction will close at noon.

Where to Get Tickets for the Napa Valley Wine Auction

There are several options for you to purchase tickets to one of the most anticipated events of the year. Select from packages that allow you to experience every festivity, or handpick select functions from the schedule. No matter which option you choose, you’ll be celebrating wine, food and a sense of community as you enjoy the scenic Napa Valley landscape, exceptional wine and mouthwatering cuisine.

Where to Stay Near the Napa Valley Wine Auction

When the sun sets on the most incredible wine auction in Napa Valley, you can head back to the Churchill Manor Bed & Breakfast to relax and unwind. Our luxurious rooms surround you with comfort and provide you with the amenities you’d expect from a charming Napa Valley B&B. Add on Spa Services or champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries to help you relax further after a memorable day at the auction. Then, wake up refreshed to enjoy a gourmet breakfast in our dining room or on the veranda.

Download our Vacation Guide and start planning your Napa Valley getaway today!