Last week, Wine Spectator magazine released their annual report on the top 10 charity wine auctions in the U.S. Using data gathered from previous years, the publication has determined that overall revenue was down in 2016. In total, $33 million was raised from live auction bids in 2016, compared to $36.9 million in 2015.
Nevertheless, charity wine auctions are still a very effective means of fundraising. Here, we’ve listed the top 10 based on how much money was raised from live bids.
1. Naples Winter Wine Festival
Located in Naples, Florida, the Naples Winter Wine Festival raised a whomping $10,485,000 for charity. This will be the 11th time that the Naples Winter Wine Festival has made it into the top 10.
2. Auction Napa Valley
Based out of St. Helena, California, Auction Napa Valley closed in at $9,800,000. All proceeds went towards local health and children’s charities.
3. Destin Charity Wine Auction
This Florida-based charity wine auction raised an impressive $2,359,225. The money was used to support local children’s organizations.
4. Auction of Washington Wines
Washington State came in at number four with a total of $1,900,500 raised during the Auction of Washington Wines.
5. Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction
Trailing just behind Auction of Washington Wines, Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction raised $1,862,500.
6. Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest
Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest managed to raise $1,549,584 during their annual event.
7. Rusty Staub Foundation Wine Auction Dinner
New York made the list of the top 10 with The Rusty Staub Foundation Wine Auction Dinner. During this event, organizers raised $1,524,350.
8. Classic Wines Auction
The Classic Wines Auction, based out of Portland, Oregon, came in at $1,514,565.
9. V Foundation Wine Celebration
Based out of Oakville, California, this charity wine auction raked in $1,377,850.
10. Rodeo Uncorked! Champion Wine Auction & Dinner
And at number 10 we have the Rodeo Uncorked! Champion Wine Auction & Dinner. This Texas charity wine auction raised $1,304,500 for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.