The 16th Annual Naples Winter Wine Festival begins Jan. 29. Benefiting local charities and assisting underprivileged and at-risk children, the event has raised more than $135 million, making it one of the most successful charity wine auctions in the nation. Top chefs, wine collectors and more than 400 volunteers gather for three days during this remarkable charity event.
What To Expect
This year’s gala features 40-plus vintners from eight countries and three continents, 23 gifted celebrity chefs and 17 Master Sommeliers (out of 230 worldwide). Brian Boitano and celebrity chef Rick Tramonto from Restaurant R’evolution in New Orleans – host of the Food Network’s “What Would Brian Boitano Make?” – will join many other elite chefs in attendance.
Emily and Paul Michael – Honored Vintner of Peter Michael Winery in Calistoga, California – and other exceptional vintners are scheduled to connect with Master Sommeliers at the festival, including Gillian Ballance from Sonoma, Calif.
Giving Back
At the heart of this event is the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF). Proceeds from the Naples Winter Wine Festival benefit the NCEF to help improve the physical, emotional and overall well-being of underprivileged children in Collier County. Some of the Festival’s incredible accomplishments since its inception in 2001 include:
- Raising more than $135 million
- Distributing $8.1 million in 2015 for annual grants to local children’s charities
- Providing $3.8 million in 2015 to support key, long-term initiatives
Making Dreams Come True
The Naples Winter Wine Festival is a prestigious and exclusive charity event that hosts top culinary talent from around the world and raises much-needed funds to support children. Visit http://www.napleswinefestival.com/ to see the event’s many positive impacts on the lives of area youth.