Archie mcLAren - Central Coast Wine Classic

Transcription

The very best of vineyards is the cellar.
Lord Byron
Donation of
Adam Licsko
Artist
Los Angeles, California
L o t
a
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2014 Central Coast Wine Classic
Commemorative Painting
a Hand-Painted Original,
by Adam Licsko
The Painting by Adam was in Progress at the publication of this
Auction Catalog and Will Be Displayed Prior to and During the Auction
Those which follow were created by Adam for previous Auctions
The amazing expression of color in Adam Licsko’s art work
brings out the physical and the metaphysical qualities of many of the
most beautiful areas on the Coast of California, the essence of the
vineyard on a rolling hill of vines beside the Pacific Ocean or even
inland, in ways that very few artists, particularly one so young,
can accomplish. Adam’s technique leads to impressions that are
so powerful on so many levels that they are reminiscent in some ways
of the works of the great landscape masters; however, his work
manifests something above and beyond, and that manifestation
is that they are deeply and uniquely of him. The work that he was
creating at the publication of this Catalog will be truly special,
as are all of Adam’s creations.
Affirms Adam, “Essentially
I’m creating an image which
for me feels as if I’m enjoying
a nice glass of wine while
sitting back and looking out
at a view of vineyards and
the sunset over the ocean. I
love the feeling of being IN
the landscape and as a part
of it. I love the California
Central Coast and the
©2013 Adam Licsko
relationship of the lines of
the vineyards. The vineyards offer a beautiful connection to the land forms as they reveal
the topography and shape of the land. They also demonstrate a lovely interplay between
human activity and nature.”
Adam Licsko, a just short of 40 year-old California artist, made a very large impression on
Wine Classic Chairman, Archie McLaren, prior to the 2010 auction, and the impression was
only a newspaper reproduction, and a very small one at that, of one of Adam’s paintings that
caught Archie’s eye. Now Archie
and Carissa have two of Adam’s
profoundly colorful and powerful
paintings at their home in Big Sur,
one that is reminiscent of a magical
night on the Big Sur Coast and one
that is redolent of Paso Robles Wine
Country.
One thing that is for sure about
this young artist from Los Angeles
is that his painting is a conscious
©2012 Adam Licsko
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In victory you deserve (champagne), in defeat you need it.
Napoleon I
force that really hums. Adam creates Colorscape that glorifies everything that is right about
the spirit of the famed California landscape. In only half a dozen years or so as a professional
artist, his unique minimalist style has attracted a devotee following.
Adam has been painting professionally since late 2000. Within five years of his professional
debut, his unique minimalist style
attracted an international following
and critical acclaim. He has
corporate collections with Nissan,
Amgen Cancer Research Institute,
Seagate Technologies, Raytheon,
Loyola Marymount University, and
State Farm to name a few. Paintings
he has donated have raised money
for charities, including Make A
Wish Foundation- Miami, Central
©2011 Adam Licsko
Coast Wine Classic, and The
Ventana Wildlife Society for the
California Condor. Most recently (2011) Licsko has been a featured artist at “Love, Faith,
Shame, and Hope,” a group show at which his paintings were featured next to those of Tissot,
Dali, Warhol, T.H. Benton and Rembrandt among others.
His works portray an incisive
perception of the world around him
as he brings to both urban life and
natural settings an acute awareness
of his audience. He explores a triad
between the viewer’s perspective
and dualities on the canvass,
emphasizing the contrasts between
light and shadow, cool and warm
colors, beauty and its opposite, but
always exploring them as they
would be seen or felt by the observer.
Unsurprisingly, a common reaction
to his work is the feeling that one is
actually inside the painting itself.
©2010 Adam Licsko
When he’s not painting or
drawing, Adam is an inventor and designer. In 2005, after a back injury, he designed and
received a patent for a simple device that maintains proper posture while carrying heavy or
awkward loads. He has also worked freelance, as a co-designer, on a project with George
Lucas’s ILM along with many other conceptual design projects through the years.
Today, Licsko’s paintings intensify his own struggle to know himself, and to express the
world as he feels it. He has begun to explore an even deeper connection with his audience,
touching upon more human subject matter and exploring social commentary.
We know that you will be most impressed by the special emotional and artistic attributes
of Adam Licsko, now with the Wine Classic for the fifth time, and we hope, for many years
continuing…
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Ha! Ha! Ha! I’m full of wine,
Heavy with the joy divine.
Percy Bysshe Shelley: The Cyclops
Donation of
Gary Pisoni & Family
Jeff, Mark, Eddie & Jane
Pisoni Vineyards
Gonzales, California
L o t
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A Tour and Tasting and Dinner for Eight People
with Gary & Marguerite Pisoni
at the Pisoni Winery Caves and Vineyards
These Pisoni Property Occasions are priceless,
for the venue, the wines, the food and the conversations.
This Family and their energy are unique and priceless.
Gary Pisoni is a ball of energy that is absolutely magical. His aura radiates way beyond that
of the vast majority of human beings; it could be argued that he has Elfin Magic, the kind that
only comes out at night for some creatures, but for Gary it is omnipresent; linear time, including
night or day, has no bearing on it.
Just to give you an idea of the aura of Pisoni, we quote from top-notch Pinot Noir producer,
Brian Loring, who uses Pisoni Vineyard grapes in one of his most special wines, and who
ventured to Pisoni for a Tour of the Vineyards and a Pisoni Tasting followed by Dinner:
Per Brian, with a slight few embellishments omitted: “And in keeping with all things Pisoni,
the caves aren’t just for winemaking... they’re also for partying! Who else but Gary Pisoni would
put a gigantic fireplace inside his wine cave? UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE!!! His plan is to glass
that part of the cave off from the wine storage area - so that he can sit at his table, eat and drink,
be warm, and look at all of his barrels of wine.
We did a mini Garys’ tasting - but I was so far gone at that point that nothing really registered.
What a day! What amazingly fun and gracious people. Gary, Jeff, Mark, Eddie, and Jane
Pisoni all treated us like family. What I had thought was going to be a simple, relaxing day
turned into one of the most fun, crazy, non-stop days I’ve had in a very long time. Way beyond
what I could have ever imagined, and way more than I’m able to convey in words. I was
stunned. I was left speechless. And I’m still recovering!”
And per the Pisoni Family, “When viewed from the sky, Pisoni Vineyards looks like an
abstract painting suffused with a special California light. Angular green shapes—different hues,
different textures—separate the golden grass from the sepia hills bursting from a seemingly twodimensional canvas. A swath of blue alludes to sky and sea, to the Pacific Ocean on the other
side of the imposing Santa Lucia Mountains. Eddie and Jane Pisoni didn’t see these simplified
lines, colors and shapes in 1979. Eddie saw 280 acres of the “type of place you can hardly find”
for a couple of horses and a few head of cattle. Jane viewed the landscape dotted with California
oaks, poppies and purple lupine as the perfect place to relax with family and friends.
Gazing down upon the fertile Salinas Valley, the location of their vegetable farm, they decided
to purchase a little piece of the area known as Eternidad Paraíso or eternal paradise because, as
John Steinbeck notes in East of Eden, “it was like Heaven.”
Their son Gary took one look and thought, “This might be the best pinot-growing site in the
New World.” Here at 1,300 feet above sea level, where the shallow soil stresses the vines to
produce intense fruit, Gary planted the first five acres of Pisoni Vineyards in 1982—before he
had even found a water source. He had to drive a water truck from the valley floor to irrigate
the vines. Almost ten years and five dry wells later, Gary tapped into the legendary springs
frequented by generations of American Indians. Recognizing the perfect home for Pinot Noir,
he planted another 40 acres of this notoriously fickle varietal.
Some of the exceptional Pinot Noir Producers who use Pisoni Vineyards grapes: Arcadian
Winery, Capiaux Cellars, Lorca Wines, Miura Vineyards, Testarossa Vineyards, Tantara Winery,
Siduri Wines, Ryan, ROAR, Peter Michael Winery, Patz & Hall Wine Co., and of course, Pisoni
Vineyards & Winery, Pisoni Family.
Seats at this extravaganza of Touring, Tasting & Dinner with the Master of
Comprehensive Pinot Noirness are priceless. The date and time of the tour and
tasting will be mutually arranged, as it must be convenient for Gary and the Pisoni
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The splendour of the revelries,
When butts of wine are drunk off the lees.
John Keats
He arrives-the cork goes flying up
Wine of the Comet fills the cup.
Alexander Pushkin
Family. Holidays and Big Sur event times, such as the Big Sur Wine & Food
Festival, are excluded. Please contact Archie McLaren for arrangements.
Tim McCarver is one of the very few athletes in Major League Baseball who had both a
stellar career as an athlete and as an announcer for the sport. He is also one of only a
handful of men to play Major League Baseball in four decades as a catcher from 1959-1980,
primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies. He also played in 3 World
Series with the Cards in the 1960s, and the year he was on the Cardinals’ World Series
Winning Team was the genesis of this Auction Offering.
A few more facts about Tim:
In 1966, he became the first and still only catcher to lead the major leagues in triples (13).
He was the “personal” catcher for Steve Carlton. In Fact, whenever Carlton pitched,
McCarver was always his battery mate. Has often said that when they died, they would be
buried 60 feet 6 inches (the distance from the pitcher’s mound to home plate) apart.
He was a member of two world championship teams (St. Louis Cardinals) in 1964 & 1967
and was selected to play for the National League in the 1966 and 1967 All-Star games.
Recently, he was the Winner of the 2012 Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually by the
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum to a broadcaster for “major contributions to
baseball”.
He was a Color Commentator for ABC and CBS beginning in April of 1990.
He became a Color Commentator for FOX beginning in April of 1998.
Tim McCarver has broadcast 24 World Series, an amazing number! In all, he’s been
broadcasting baseball games since 1981. Before that, he was a player for 21 years, moving
from Memphis to debut as a 17-year-old in 1959. As a player, he was steady and sometimes
spectacular, making two All-Star teams and finishing second in the National League MVP
voting in 1967. He was a very solid fielder and his longevity in both playing and broadcasting
was truly impressive.
Archie and Tim met in 1960. The introduction involved cheerleaders in Memphis. The
details are unclear. They had not seen each other for roughly 40 years or so until they were
re-introduced at a Peter Paul Headlands Foundation Auction in San Francisco. Archie was
the winning bidder on Tim’s Auction Lot offering!
A couple of years ago, Tim, Bob Gibson, the historic Cardinals pitcher who was the World
Series Most Valuable Player in 1964, and Archie were dining in Corton restaurant in New
York City. A couple of weeks prior to the dinner, it was decided that the theme would be
1964 to celebrate the Cardinals 1964 World Series victory and the year that Archie graduated
from Vanderbilt “virtually unscathed by a college education.” The wines that evening were
absolutely superb, 1964 Château Cheval Blanc and 1964 Château Latour, two of the array of
wines that are featured in this Auction Lot Dinner.
During the dinner, the conversation brought up a number of remarkable happenings in
1964. Some of them are as follows:
• The signing of the Civil Rights Act
• Martin Luther King receiving the Nobel Peace Prize
• Nelson Mandela sentenced to life imprisonment
• South Africa’s exclusion by the Olympics in Japan due to apartheid
• The Beatles arrival in America
• Beatles 1st US #1, “I Want to Hold your Hand”
• The introduction of the Ford Mustang
• President Lyndon B Johnson declares “War on Poverty”
• Teamsters negotiate 1st national labor contract
• Unmanned Apollo 1 Saturn launcher test attains Earth orbit
• 9.2 earthquake shakes Prince William Sound, Alaska
• Great Train Robbers sentenced to a total of 307 years behind bars
• 36th Academy Awards - “Tom Jones”, Best Film, Sidney Poitier & Patricia Neal win Best
Actor/Actress
• Chesapeake Bay Bridge opens (at that time the world’s longest)
• Jerrie Mock becomes 1st woman to fly solo around the world
• Al Parker glides 644 miles without any motor
• Sandy Koufax is 1st to strike out the side on 9 pitches
• Houston Colt 45s Ken Johnson becomes 1st major league pitcher to lose a 9 inning
no-hitter, Reds win 1-0
• Ground is broken for a new stadium in St Louis
• Palestine National Congress forms the PLO in Jerusalem
• Rolling Stones 1st US concert tour debuts in Lynn, Mass
• Civil rights workers Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman & James E Chaney, bodies
discovered in an earthen Mississippi dam
• US begins bombing North Vietnam
• Egypt/Iraq/Jordan/Kuwait/Syria form common market
• St Louis Card Curt Flood gets 8 straight hits in a doubleheader
• *St Louis Cards are 11 games back in NL, & win World Series!
• Wilderness Act signed into law by President Lyndon B Johnson
• Walt Disney awarded Medal of Freedom at White House
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Donation of
Tim McCarver
Sarasota, Florida & Napa, California
and
Archie McLaren
Avila Beach & Big Sur, California
L o t
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“1964 a Transcendent Year in the World, Including Fine Wine”
Dinner for Ten People with Tim McCarver and Archie McLaren
in the Napa Valley, Featuring the 1964 Vintage, Not Just of the
Napa Valley but in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal & Australia
Wines to be enjoyed at this remarkable will ALL be
from the 1964 Vintage. They include:
1964 Leroy Grands-Echezeaux
1964 Château Cheval Blanc, St.-Emilion
1964 Château Haut-Brion, Graves
1964 Château la Mission Haut-Brion, Graves
1964 Château Latour, Pauillac
1964 Martini Cabernet Sauvignon
1964 Giacomo Conterno Barolo
1964 Pio Cesare Barbaresco
1964 Penfolds Grange
1964 Vega Sicilia Unico
1964 Taylor Fladgate Limited Edition "Single Vintage Port"
And it is not yet confirmed, but the beginning of this amazing evening
might possibly include 1964 Cuvée Dom Perignon Oenoteque!
Wine is the intellectual part of the meal, meats are merely the material part.
Alexander Dumas
God made only water, but man made wine.
Victor Hugo: Les Contemplations
• Beatles are paid a then record $150,000 for a concert (Kansas)
• Warren Commission released, finds Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone (we all know better!)
• Free Speech Movement launched at University of California , Berkley
• Che Guevara speaks at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
• “The Pink Panther” cartoon series premieres (Pink Phink)
• Lockheed SR-71 spy aircraft reaches 3,530 kph (record for a jet)-company founded by
Carissa Chappellet’s grandfather Cyril
• Comedian Lenny Bruce is convicted of obscenity
Obviously, some of these are more significant than others, but you get the
picture. The year 1964 was One Heck of a Year! Celebrate it with Tim and Archie
at this Once-in-a-Lifetime Dining with Fine Wine Experience!”
pushed the envelope of quality, fashioning first-growth quality wines from one of Bordeaux’s
finest terroirs. In St. Emilion, only Ausone can be considered to have greater potential in
terms of micro-climate and terroir. Pavie’s 2005 exhibits a thick-looking purple color to the
rim as well as an exquisite perfume of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, unsmoked cigar
tobacco, crushed rocks, damp earth, and hints of truffles and incense. The vineyard’s
limestone soils have provided massive concentration, a laser-like precision, fresh, zesty
acidity, and massive tannin. Despite the wine’s enormous concentration and intensity, there
is a lightness to its style. As Perse has made clear, he is trying to produce modern day
versions of such great vintages as 1921, 1929, 1945, and 1947, wines that lasted 50 or more
years. I do not understand why Perse receives so much criticism. In the blind tastings of
each new vintage conducted by the Grand Jury European, Pavie usually wins against 100 or
so other great Bordeaux. As they say, the truth is irrefutable - this is one of the world’s most
outstanding wines, and the 2005 Pavie should take its place among the greatest achievements
of Bordeaux in the last 50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060. Rating: 98+”
98 Points The Wine Advocate
“Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock,
truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last
year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of
sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying
minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine’s material on the explosive
back end. This wine has it all!
Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines
on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit
from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily
last for three or four decades.”
96 Points International Wine Cellar
The property’s Consulting Oenologist is the renowned Michel Rolland, who is a great
friend of Robert Parker, and Michel is probably the most influential wine consultant in the
world. Known as the “Flying Wine Maker” Rolland has some 150 clients spanning 13
countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, India, Brazil, California, Italy, Spain, South Africa and
Argentina. He has apparently also explored Chinese efforts to make wine, though he’s not
involved in any projects there – yet.
Most of his clients are in his native Bordeaux and châteaux such as Angélus, Ausone and
Pape Clément are under his wing. His signature style are fruit-heavy and oak-influenced
wines, a preference shared by critic Robert Parker. Born into a wine making family, Rolland
studied at Tour Blanche Viticultural and Oenology school in Bordeaux and the Bordeaux
Oenology Institute. At the Institute, Michel Rolland learnt from renowned oenologists Pierre
Sudraud, Pascal Ribéreau-Gayon, Jean Ribéreau-Gayon, and Émile Peynaud – the “Fathers
of Modern Oenology.”
Rolland was brought in as the wine maker to Gérard Perse’s châteaux which include
Châteaux Pavie, Monbusquet and Bellevue Mondotte as well as Pavie Decesse. Perse, an
ex-cyclist, sold his supermarkets to enter into the wine making business and is driven by
quality and perfection. He has invested millions into his quest and has caused a renaissance
in the châteaux under his care.
The name Pavie is thought to be derived from “pavies”, describing the deeply coloured
peaches that once grew on the site.
Those of you who were not able to attend the sold-out Château Pavie Vertical Dinner at
the Home of Maurice & Susie Wedell in Arroyo Grande featuring these vintages can now
have your own dinner for a couple of handfuls of people. They and you will be enormously
impressed.
These wines were imported and impeccably stored by one of America’s foremost
import experts, Don Schliff, CEO of Imports at Wine Warehouse, who has a
prodigious and carefully selected Bordeaux collection. Thank you, Don! VERY
gracious and generous of you!
Donation of
Don Schliff
CEO of Imports
Wine Warehouse
Glendale, California
L o t
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Two Bottles Each of Excellent Vintages of Château Pavie, St.-Emilion,
Including 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 & 2005 Vintages, 2000 and 2005
Being Among the Finest Vintages in Bordeaux History
A Total of Twelve Bottles
Château Pavie is a much-heralded winery in Saint-Émilion that lies on
the plateau southeast of the village of St.- Émilion. Its reputation has
significantly grown, as in 2012 it was classified in the First Rank of the
Classification of Saint-Émilion wine, as a Premier Grand Cru Classé, One
of only Four in St- Émilion in that exalted level (the revered Angelus,
Ausone & Cheval Blanc being the other three).
Let’s focus on just one of these vintages, the 2005.
The Winemaker’s Notes are as follows:
This is the eighth vintage of Pavie produced under the ownership of Mme. and Mr. Perse,
and it was a classic year which demonstrated that the château has a truly exceptional terroir.
The color is a deep and dense purple, with violet highlights which underscore the wine’s
youth. Its clean aromas highlight good intensity and well-defined fruitiness. Black currants,
blueberries and assorted black fruit are present, together with flattering chocolate and spicy
notes derived from careful aging in barrel. The first impression on the palate is faultless, and
the quality of the vintage becomes evident as its taste evolves. The wine shows a full body,
both tight and supple at once. Everything comes together to create an exemplary balance.
The tannins are fine-grained, with a structure which ensures a long and brilliant future. The
wine’s class and nobility express the care taken during vinification to respect the vintage’s
potential. The finish is mouth-watering and long, worthy of a great Saint-Emilion.
This is a beautiful, polished 2005 whose powerful and fine structure produces a full and
round impression. Forget it in the cellar for at least five years, but its great potential will
allow the wine to age successfully for 20 years or more.
The Critical Acclaim is as follows:
“I love the purity of fruit in this wine, with perfectly ripe blackberry, blueberry and
raspberry on the nose. Complex and full-bodied, with hints of new oak and wonderfully
polished tannins that caress the palate. Long, long finish. This is not the blockbuster it was
from barrel, but rather a complete, balanced and gorgeous red. Best after 2015.”
100 Points Wine Spectator
“Now that the 2005 Pavie is in the bottle, I would place it, qualitatively, a notch below the
prodigious 2000, and a few notches above the blockbuster 2003. There are 7,000 cases of this
70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Disregarding the
blatant jealousy of his success as well as his outsider status, proprietor Gerard Perse has
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A waltz and a glass of wine can invite an encore.
Johann Strauss
Donation of
Opus One
Oakville, California
L o t
42
A Private Reception and Twilight Tour & Tasting at Opus One
for Ten Guests, Including Champagne & Caviar in the Winery‘s
Grand Chai Tasting Room, Paired with Especially Prepared
Hors D’oeuvres, Followed by Dinner for Ten, featuring Other Special
Opus One Wines and a Dessert Wine from Archie McLaren’s Cellar
as a Denouement. The Dinner will be Hosted by Opus One CEO,
David Pearson, Our 2013 Fine Wine Honoree from the Napa Valley,
and Archie McLaren at the Restaurant at Auberge Du Soleil
in the Napa Valley. The Menu will be Designed by Auberge
Executive Chef, Robert Curry, to match wines chosen by David Pearson.
The Opus One Private Twilight Tour and Tasting is reserved exclusively for charity
donations. Guests begin this late afternoon experience in the winery’s Salon with caviar and
a flute of fine champagne. A private tour follows of the salient architectural spaces of Opus
One: the Mezzanine,
Cuvier, Gallery and
Grand Chai. The Tour
culminates in the Grand
Chai, with a two-vintage
tasting of Opus One and
a second course of hors
d’oeuvres specially prepared to complement fine red wine. Relaxed and ready for the next
adventure, guests will then be escorted to dinner by a host from Opus One’s executive team,
Roger and/or David. The destination: the Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil, where three
additional vintages of Opus One will be served with a menu designed by Executive Chef
Robert Curry.
A native of Los Angeles, Curry began his
culinary career there in 1986 at Ma Cuisine,
Wolfgang Puck and Patrick Terrail’s cooking
school, during which time he received his
degree from the Culinary Institute of America,
Hyde Park, N.Y. Following graduation, he was
recruited by Michael Richard and Alain Giraud
for Citrus Restaurant. In the late ‘90s, he
traveled the world to study cuisine, working
with Alain Ducasse at his three-star Louis XV in
the Hotel de Paris; with Joseph Thuet at the
Moët & Chandon Résidence de Trianon in Epernay, France; and in Paris at the two-star
Michel Rostang.
This is one of our most popular offerings, and we understand that this lot was absolutely
incredible last year and the year prior, as always, with David and his staff pulling out all the
stops at Opus One and during dinner, and Archie donated a 1989 Château d’Yquem one year!
We bet that he will provide another d’Yquem for this offering.
Opus One, the extremely successful collaborative winemaking venture between Robert
Mondavi Winery and Pauillac First Growth, Château Mouton-Rothschild, was founded in
1979. Opus One was the vision of Robert Mondavi and the late Baron Philippe de Rothschild,
and the wine is as grand as their vision. Its respective partners’ approaches to winemaking,
is an innovative combination of ultra-modern and old-world traditional.
James Laube, who designates Opus One as a California First Growth, describes it in his
book, California’s Great Cabernets, in the following manner. “Opus One is the most celebrated
wine in California history.” That is high praise indeed!
Twilight Tours and Tastings at this spectacular winery facility are legendary. They have
received thousands of dollars at charity auctions and are conferred only on rare occasion. In
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When I heard that Mr. Sturgis had given up wine, I had the same regret
that I had in learning that Mr. Bowditch had broken his hip.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
fact, as indicated, they are reserved exclusively for charitable donations. Due to the Central
Coast Wine Classic’s relationship with Opus One, this lot is such an offering plus additional
enhancements which are virtually never offered.
Opus One is a wine that is renowned for its opulence, consistency and longevity. In fact,
in recent comprehensive vertical tastings of the Opus One wines at the Palace Hotel in New
York City and at the winery in Oakville for its Twentieth Anniversary Celebration, the striking
aspect of each was the wines’ consistently high quality. Even in so-called “off” vintages for
Napa Cabeebornet, Opus One made excellent wine. You can be assured that your special tour
and tasting will leave a lasting and consistently excellent impression.
As always, this is an exceedingly special offering, and as always, we are
extremely grateful to the winery’s CEO, our Napa Valley 2013 Fine Wine Honoree,
David Pearson, for so thoroughly indulging and edifying our winning bidders.
Donation of
Micato Safaris
Kenya, Africa & New York, New York
Anna Pinto
Director
L o t
43
Our Dear Friend, Anna Pinto, Micato Director, Will Explain in Detail
Your Remarkable Luxury Trip South African Wine Country as Follows
South African Sojourn Itinerary
Welcome to South Africa!
Day 1 Kruger National Park, South Africa: A Micato representative will escort you to the
airport in Cape Town where you will board your self-booked flight to the Kruger National Park
area. On arrival you will be greeted by a Singita representative who will escort you to the lodge.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive before returning for a delicious dinner. Overnight at Singita
Lebombo or Singita Sweni Lodge.
Like a collection of eagles’ nests perched along the rugged cliff faces above the N’wanetsi
River, Singita Lebombo Lodge looks out regally across the landscape. This boldly dramatic
lodge, home to fifteen loft-style suites, is situated on Singita’s private concession in the Kruger
National Park. The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat, teeming with game,
beneath endless African skies. Imaginative wood, steel and organic interiors, all encased in
glass, create a stylishly contemporary feel in the suites and make the most of the astonishing
views overlooking the river.
Resting lightly upon the ground within a
33,000 acre, private concession in the Kruger
National Park, Singita Sweni Lodge is nestled
beautifully amongst hundreds of trees at the
edge of the Sweni River. In this tranquil,
intimate hideaway, the decks of the lodge
seem to hover in the branches, while inside,
rich calming colours and textures echo the
hues of the natural surroundings. With its
proximity to the river, guests at Singita Sweni Lodge are treated to up-close sightings of the
incredible number of animals and birds that wander down to drink or wallow in the river.
Day 2 Kruger National Park, South Africa: Today enjoy two game drives throughout this
world renowned National Park. Spend your mornings and evenings on safari searching for the
Big Five. Overnight at Singita Lebombo or Singita Sweni Lodge.
Day 3 Kruger National Park, South Africa: Enjoy another early morning game drive
before an afternoon of leisure. At dusk, set off on another game drive to see the animals at their
most active. Overnight at Singita Lebombo or Singita Sweni Lodge.
Day 4 Cape Winelands, South Africa: Today you will be escorted to the gorgeous Cape
Winelands where you will enjoy two nights at the stunning boutique hotel, La Residence.
Overnight at La Residence.
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Montrachet should be drunk on the knees with the head bared.
Alexander Dumas
The study of astronomy is wonderfully facilitated by wine.
Herman Melville: Mardi
Within the category of luxury Franschhoek hotels, La Residence is in a class of its own.
Located in the beautiful Franschhoek valley at the heart of a private 30-acre estate, this is a
haven of luxury on every level.
Surrounded by vineyards and plum
orchards, with a stunning mountain
backdrop, La Residence enjoys
breathtaking views of the unspoilt rural
surrounds and an atmosphere of
complete tranquility. Step into the main
hall and be transported to a world of
exquisite beauty, opulence and grandeur
in this luxury Franschhoek hotel.
Glittering Indian chandeliers hang from
the vaulted ceiling; original artwork and
huge mirrors grace the walls; furnishings
are plush, colourful and stylish. Elegant
antiques and exquisite flowers create a
La Residence, Cape Winelands
feeling of refinement and sophistication.
Day 5 Cape Winelands, South Africa: Today you will enjoy full day tours of Stellenbosch
and Franschhoek with wine tastings throughout. Overnight at La Residence.
Day 6 Cape Town, South Africa: This morning you will be driven from the Cape
Winelands to gorgeous Cape Town. Enjoy a full day tour of the Cape Point Peninsula. Visit the
penguins at Boulder’s Beach and enjoy the unique architecture of Simonstown before heading
to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Overnight at One&Only Cape Town.
This urban chic resort brings an unprecedented level of luxury to Cape Town, one of the
world’s most fascinating cities.
With captivating views of Table Mountain from its enviable location in the Victoria & Alfred
Waterfront, the resort is a destination unto itself. Discerning travellers are invited to discover
the celebrated cuisines of Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa and Reuben Riffel, socialise in the highenergy vibe of Vista Bar & Lounge and sample rare and undiscovered vintages at the stunning
Wine Loft. The sublime calm of the city’s most expansive and sophisticated spa offers an
indulgent escape, while NEO Boutique debuts an enviable collection of designer fashions,
some available for the first time in South Africa.
As the first luxury hotel to open in Cape Town in nearly a decade, the resort is designed to
celebrate the city’s wine, art, design and spirit, balancing contemporary glamour with an
authentic South African style.
Travel+Leisure - Rated One&Only Cape Town No.1 City Hotel and Resort in South Africa &
the Middle East. Nestled on an exclusive island, this elegant residential environment offers
spacious rooms, each with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the waterway. The 40
Island Rooms and Suites offer ultimate tranquility and luxury just a few steps away from the
world-class One&Only Spa.
Day 7 Cape Town, South Africa: Today is at your leisure. Feel free to enjoy the grounds,
lay by the pool, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at this truly luxurious hotel. Overnight
at One&Only Cape Town.
Day 8 Depart: After breakfast this morning you will be escorted to the airport where you
will board your flight home.
What an amazing synthesis of world-class experiences-Wine Country, a Safari
& Cape Town!
Micato Safaris has been honoured to receive the following unprecedented
accolade....
Travel+Leisure proclaimed Micato “#1 World’s Best Safari Outfitter” for the
Ninth Time!
The finest safari experiences on earth, along with a passionate ideology of giving
back to the land they love and serve... What more could one ask of a luxury travel
company?
Please contact Micato Safaris (212-545-7111, ext. 123) to be put in contact with
one of the Micato Safari Specialists.
Donation of
A Dinner such as this has never previously been offered. Blake is a consummate
wine aficionado and gourmet and Burt is the consummate vintner and gourmet.
Just imagine the wines and the Dinner conversation, and you will make certain
that you are there!
Williams
Selyem
Winery began as a simple
dream of two friends, Ed
Selyem and Burt
Williams, who started
weekend winemaking as
a hobby in 1979 in a
garage in Forestville,
California. It took less
than two decades from
their first commercial
vintage in 1981 for Burt
and Ed to create a cultstatus
winery
of
international acclaim.
Together, they set a new standard for Pinot Noir winemaking in the United States, raising
Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley to among the best winegrowing regions in the world.
They just wanted to make good Pinot Noir they could drink at home. They never set out
to make a splash or become rich. Williams admits, “I had no big plan. I wanted to buy grapes
and turn them into good wine. We weren’t trying to conquer the world or make millions of
dollars. We were trying to make the best wine we could and enjoy it ourselves. If enough was
left over, we could sell it. We never imagined that we would become a cult winery capable
of selling everything we made.” Burt practiced a low-tech, natural and intuitive style of
188
189
Blake Brown & Roelanda Genn
Santa Barbara, California
Burt Williams & Rebecca Aff
Montecito, California
and
San Ysidro Ranch
Montecito, California
L o t
44
A Fabulous Four Course Dinner for Six Very Fortunate People
in the Private Dining Room of the Charming Old Adobe of the
World-Class San Ysidro Ranch Featuring Wines of Burt Williams of
Williams Selyem Fame with the Iconic Burt in Attendance.
The wines will at least include:
2008 Williams Selyem Blanc de Noir Drake Estate Vineyard
1997 Williams Selyem Chardonnay Allen Vineyard
1992 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard
1993 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Russian River Valley
1995 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Allen Vineyard
1996 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Precious Mountain
1994 Williams Selyem Zinfandel Mendocino County
Within the bottle’s depths, the wine’s soul sang one night.
Baudelaire
The flavor of wine is like delicate poetry.
Louis Pasteur
winemaking, working with the finicky, thin-skinned red grape from Burgundy that had
scant history in the Golden State.
They were bonded in 1981, the first vintage was from 1982 under the label of Hacienda
del Rio, a reference to Burt’s home on the Russian River, with Burt designing the label. The
first commercial release was in 1983. In 1984, the label, which Burt also designed, was
changed to Wiliams Selyem. Known for designating vineyards to capture the essence of the
locale, their first Pinot Noir vineyard designate was Rochioli released in 1985.
It was the partner’s limited capital that led to their good fortune. Burt and Ed were forced
to perform all the work in the winery themselves. As it turned out, and North American
winemakers eventually came to realize this, Pinot Noir was the one grape that demanded
careful handling, constant attention and benefited the most from a hands-on approach. As
Williams has noted, “We employed old, traditional methods of winemaking, which turned
out to be the best ways. We kept it basic and simple: no pumps, no filtering and did nothing
that we didn’t have to.”
Although delicious upon release, the wines would age better than many California Pinot
Noirs of the time. People were want to say, “These wines are so good when young, they can’t
possibly age.” Their age ability was in part due to their moderate alcohols and well-honed
acidity, as well as their impeccable balance. Balance was important to Williams as he has
explained, “Wine needs to be transparent and to be transparent, it must be balanced. Over
ripe, over blown wines do not reflect the site.”
Their winery was sold in 1998 to the current owners. The last vintage Burt finished was 1997.
Burt Williams’ career will show that winemaking, like any craft, is a God-given talent,
enhanced by education and experience, but a craft for which some people are more blessed.
The following are among the important legacies of Burt Williams, his partner Ed Selyem,
and Williams Selyem winery.
1. One of California’s ultimate cult wineries and the first for Pinot Noir.
2. California’s first $100 Pinot Noir.
3. First California Pinot Noir to be exported to Burgundy and offered on restaurant lists in
Burgundy.
4. First winery to bring consumer’s attention to a sense of place reflected by specific
vineyards such as Rochioli, Allen, Olivet Lane, and Summa.
5. First vineyard designates from Allen Vineyard, Summa Vineyard, Precious Mountain
Vineyard, Cohn Vineyard and Olivet Lane Vineyard.
6. Emphasized that vineyard designated Pinot Noir should only be offered when the
vineyard warrants it.
7. Turned the consumer’s attention to growers and their vital importance in fine wine
production. Also set the stage for vintners and growers to work together.
8. Fostered the winemaking approach now widely followed by Pinot Noir producers
including hand sorting of grapes, punch downs, and no pumping in the winery.
9. Brought to consumer’s attention the importance of choosing carefully the type of
French oak used for aging Pinot Noir
10. Developed a proprietary yeast that is now in wide use in Pinot Noir winemaking.
11. Brought worldwide recognition to the Russian River Valley and its wines, particularly
Pinot Noir.
12. Originated the mailing list (and waiting list) model for selling wine directly to
consumers.
13. Among the first California Pinot Noir producers to offer wines in magnum format for
most bottlings.
14. Demonstrated that intuition through experience is invaluable in crafting Pinot Noir.
15. Most importantly, Williams Selyem showed that great wine, and in particular Pinot
Noir, can be produced without artifice. Technological methods such as saignée, alcohol
adjustment, addition of Rubired extract, or other products to change color, flavor, acid,
tannin and mouth feel, are simply not required nor desired. Technology and expensive
equipment can be useful winemaking adjuncts but are not requirements for fine wine
production.
The date of dinner has to fall on or between Sunday through Thursday and not
during a holiday week.
When setting a date the winning bidder will provide multiple dates for Blake and
Burt and the San Ysidro Ranch from which to choose.
The date needs to be confirmed at least one month out with San Ysidro Ranch.
The dinner expires July 12, 2015
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191
Donation of
The Sixth Annual Big Sur Food
Big Sur, California
and
Wine Festival
Toby Rowland-Jones,
Founder & Sustainer of Momentum
L ot
45
A Deluxe Package for Two to the 2014 Big Sur Food and Wine Festival
to be Held on the Weekend of November 6th
through November 9th, 2014, Along the Remarkable Big Sur Coast.
The Annual Big Sur Food and Wine Festival is one of the most enjoyable
and interesting events imaginable, with creative and unique tastings,
superb dinners and an exciting auction, all to benefit non-profits
in Big Sur in the areas of Health, Safety and Education.
“COME AND JOIN US IN WHAT UNDOUBTEDLY WILL BE A WEEKEND
THAT ONLY THE MAGIC OF BIG SUR CAN OFFER!”
With six years under its belt, and recognized as one of the most intimate and creative food
and wine festivals in the country, let us invite you to come and join us for a weekend of pure
magic! We are honored to present this auction lot on the anniversary of the Central Coast Wine
Classic’s 30th Anniversary,
and we hope you will
recognize that it’s not the
value of the lot you are
bidding on, but what you are
creating for the chosen
charities represented here
today!
Imagine going Hiking with
Stemware (TM) on a gorgeous
private property in the heart
of Big Sur, where you’d stroll
through magnificent natural
scenery, all the while being
surprised by new tastes of
great wine and food, with
only thirty other guests. Be
prepared for a breathtaking
views while enjoying an
invigorating hike!
Or, how about jumping
onto a small (28 person)
luxury bus and visiting three
separate private properties
on the Magical Mystery Tour?
At each location, we’ve
stationed a chef and different
winery, and over three hours,
you’ll marvel at the amazing beauty of the Big Sur coast from many different perspectives.
What is this life you are so sure about? A flame that kindles, flashes and goes out,
The unchanging heaven and the eternal sea; Serve but to mock our mutability.
And you before this wine who hesitate; For what, I ask you frankly, do you wait? –Li Po
These are homes rarely seen by the outside world, and we are blessed by the generosity of our
friends who have opened up their homes for this.
Pinot fan? Come to
the Post Ranch Inn
in the heart of Big
Sur, ranked as one of
the greatest small
luxury resorts in the
world. There we will
have approximately
thirty of our favorite
Pinot noir producers
for an afternoon of
truly world-class
wines and food. Get
the chance to chat
one on one with the
winemakers or winery owners in the ecluded and utterly beautiful Kitchen Garden, overseen
by chef John Cox.
Wine and Swine? Of course! A riotous evening at the Henry Miller Library on the Friday
evening where we showcase five or six of our favorite chefs preparing piggy all sorts of ways!
Couple that with some twenty winemakers and you have an evening of porcine pleasure, and
for those of you who prefer beer with your meal, Firestone Beer will be presenting a slew of
their yummy brews!
Dinner With Friends - this event is a Paulée-style evening of pure camaraderie where guests
are invited to bring some of their own yummy juice and join our invited winemakers who will
be at various tables. A sumptuous meal and great entertainment under the big tent at the
Henry Miller Library!
The Grand Public
Tasting! An afternoon
of revelry, featuring
upwards of fifty
wineries and twenty
chefs, who have all
been carefully handpicked to come and
play with us during
the weekend. You’ll
get to meet the actual
winemakers and
winery owners, and
the chefs themselves
as you graze through
this panoply of wondrous edibles and phenomenal wines!
*Please know that times and locations are subject to change, and that transportation and
rooms are not included in this offering. Please call Toby Rowland-Jones at 831-869-1341 for
more details.
The organizers of the Big Sur Wine & Food festival are among the most dedicated,
interesting and interactive people you will ever meet. They include Central Coast
Wine Classic family, Festival Creators Toby Rowland-Jones and Aengus Wagner, as
well as gracious and expert sommeliers such as Matt Peterson and Alicia Hahn,
now Partners-in-Life!
And ponder the Auction… Where else will you find an auction offering that is a
Hike and Dinner with Aubert de Villaine, Owner of Domaine de la RomaneeConti? Nowhere else!!!
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This is the wine cellar, the place for the produce of the vine is in it.
One is merry in it. And the heart of him who goes forth from it rejoices.
Egyptian wine cellar inscription circa 2500 B.C.
Donation of
Yuroz
2014 Central Coast Wine Classic Honoree
Camarillo, California
and
Jim Clendenen
Au Bon Climat
Santa Maria, California
L o t
a
46
C
2014 Central oast Wine Classic
Commemorative Art Work
“Ocean View,”
an Oil on Canvas
by Yuroz
and
One 9 liter Salmanazar Etched & Hand-Painted with the Commemorative
Art of Yuroz by Candice Norcross, of a Unique Pinot Noir Blend of 2012
Au Bon Climat Cuvée
Isabelle & Cuvée Knox
Alexander, Isabelle
Created from the Best
Barrels of Specific
Vineyard Sites Such as
Bien Nacido, Sanford &
Benedict, Talley Rincon
& Mt. Carmel and Knox
Alexander of 50% Dijon
Clones and 50%
Traditional California
Selections Planted by
Jim Clendenen at the
Higher Elevations of
Bien Nacido Vineyard
As emoted by Yuroz, “Once
upon a time in the early
evening, in a hotel room in
Avila Beach, a couple so full of
love, sits by their window
sipping the Nectar of the
Gods, waiting for the sun to
set. She now lays her book on
the table for his later pleasure,
and he gently lowers his
guitar. Like a perfect ballet,
she lifts her glass as an offering, as he raises his to her. He serenaded her with a melody that
inspired the poetry that flowed so easily from her pen, and together they created a song of
love dedicated to that very moment. Now, it is time for everything to disappear, except their
physical bodies, and the spirits that will embrace as they are lifted up by love.”
This auction lot presents the uniquely creative process of Yuroz, a world-class artist with
art themes that are often vibrantly romantic and spiritual, creating compelling, seductive
masterpieces within the medium of oil painting.
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Therefore God gave thee of the dew of heaven,
and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine.
Genesis 27:28, New Testament
The inspiration for Yuroz vision as an artist can be traced back to his experiences as a
young man in Soviet Armenia. Born Yuri Gevorgian on March 30, 1956, he dreamed of the
artistic freedom that exceeded his grasp.
Determined in his relentless passion to create great art, Yuroz distinguished himself as
one of the youngest students ever accepted into the esteemed AKOP Kodjuyan School of Art
in the Armenian capital of Yerevan. He was just 10 years old. Four years later he graduated
with honors. At the age of seventeen he entered the Yerevan University of Art and
Architecture. His attitudes as an artist were maturing . The Soviets and their views on selfexpression, however, were not. Yuroz aptitude for architecture is obvious even today in the
lines, angles and composition of his paintings. In Armenia, that aptitude allowed him to
build architectural models and to work as an interior designer.
Hounded by the Soviets because of his political views, Yuroz turned to the only work he
could find, designing women’s fashions. He met a woman named Rose and, by combining
their names, they created the label
Yuroz! The artist kept the name in
homage to their friendship. In
many of his current works, he
paints the blue rose as a symbol of
love, tenderness and compassion.
He married a woman who,
along with her family, gained
entrance to the United States.
Yuroz himself was not allowed to
emigrate for 6 years. When the
couple reunited, they found they
no longer had anything in
common. After hardly a month in
America, Yuroz found himself
utterly, terribly alone. Discouraged and destitute, he wandered a bus terminal in Fresno
until he met Tom, a homeless man who graciously extended him companionship. Together
they found shelter and odd jobs.
Even though his life had taken a devastating turn, Yuroz was still compelled to create his
art, scribbling with discarded pens on napkins and pieces of cardboard--anything to bring the
images out of his head and into the world. His earlier Hollywood Boulevard series depicted
the homeless as beautiful and elegant despite the squalor around them.
Yuroz landed a job building models for an architectural firm by day and slept on the office
couch by night. After a few months, he had saved enough money to rent his own studio in
Hollywood. Since then, Yuroz has become a worldwide influence in the art community.
Other artists write to him about this technique. Because there are more Yuroz collectors than
Yuroz originals, his publishing company produces limited edition serigraphs of his oils,
pastels and line drawings. Even Hollywood seeks him out. In 1993, Yuroz was selected as
the official artist of the Grammy Awards, which honors outstanding achievement in the
recording industry. His originals are in several museums and most recently, he created
Harlequins Gift: for Comic Relief, the fundraising organization for the homeless.
Still, it is Yuroz passion that forces him to paint, and the subject of his more recent works
is, of course, passion. Romantic love; the pleasure of music; a treasured moment pressed in
our minds like a four leaf clover in a book, which we take out and reminisce over in our
private minutes--these are the subjects of Yuroz mounting body of work.
Yuroz continues to be an innovator of fine art. His experiments in other media than oils,
including last year’s Auction offering ceramic plates, as well as vases, are painstaking in their
preparation and breathtaking in their display.
He has admitted that he works out of his own selfish desire to create, but more important
to him is that collectors appreciate their own lives through the universal themes of hope,
passion and love inherent in all his work. He continues to press forward--to inspire,
impassioned, and to romanticize what he sees as a marvelous journey through this world’s
lives, loves and hopes.
As always, with Yuroz, his art work is a powerful and sensual representation of the subject
of enjoying the relationships between women and men. It should be noted that original
196
Satisfy your hearts with food and wine,
for therein is courage and strength.
Homer: The Iliad
And in this mountain shall the Lord of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things,
a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined
Isaiah 25:6
works By Yuroz, are highly sought-after and command significant prices.
It is a great honor and pleasure to have him favor us by continuing as one of
our sustaining Central Coast Wine Classic Commemorative Artists. Yuri is an
extraordinary human being, a passionate and aware individual who translates
those attributes to creations in the most interactive of all themes, romance. Our
romance with Yuroz gratefully continues.
As already indicated in this Catalog, Jim Clendenen, the “Mind Behind” Au Bon Climat, is
recognized worldwide for his classically styled Burgundian-focused wines, among other
styles. His vintner reputation is incredible! In 1989 and 1990 Au Bon Climat was on Robert
Parker’s short list of Best Wineries in the World, and in 1991 was selected by Oz Clark as one
of fifty world-wide creators of Modern Classic Wines. Dan Berger of the Los Angeles Times
named Clendenen the “Los Angeles Time Winemaker of the Year” in 1992; Food & Wine
Magazine named him “Winemaker of the Year” in 2001. Germany’s leading wine magazine,
Wein Gourmet, in 2004 name Clendenen “Winemaker of the World;” and in 2007, Jim was
inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America.”
Jim’s access to extraordinary Pinot Noir vineyards is no secret, and his choices in terms
of exceptional terroir characteristics are in the Santa Maria valley, including of course, Bien
Nacido Vineyard adjacent to Au Bon Climat and Santa Maria Hills, in that wondrous
microclimate west of Highway 101 and Buellton.
Thank you immensely, Jim. Your support is as extraordinary as your wine!
This Unique Combination of Art and Wine is both unique and irreplaceable.
Place one on your favorite wall and one at a most special location in your wine
cellar. Each will bring you edifying rewards for years to come…
Donation of
Gray Hartley & Frank Ostini
2014 Central Coast Wine Classic Honorees
Hartley-Ostini/Hitching Post Wines
Buellton, California
L o t
47
In the same spirit of the 30th Year of the
Central Coast Wine Classic, Hitching Post Wines puts forth
at least one bottle from every vintage since 1984.
The offering Includes the following Pinot Noirs,
Each a 750ml Bottle Unless Otherwise Indicated::
Santa Maria Valley 1984, 86, 88, 90, 91, 92, 95 (5L), 99 (Magnum),
2000(Magnum), 05(Magnum)
Sanford & Benedict Vineyard 1985, 87, 89, 98, 2000, 01, 02, 03, 04, 06
Bien Nacido Vineyard 1993, 94, 96 (Magnum) 2001 (Magnum), 03,
09 (Magnum), 10 (Magnum)
Cargasacchi Vineyard 2002, 04, 06, 07, 09, 10, 12
Fiddlestix Vineyard 2001, 02, 04 (3L & 750), 06
Highliner 1996, 97(Double Magnum), 2002, 04 (Double Magnum),
06 (3L), 07 (Magnum), 08 (Double Magnum & 750),
09 (Double Magnum & Magnum), 11(Double Magnum), 12
Perfect Set 2007 (Double Magnum & 750), 08 (Magnum),
12 (Double Magnum & 750)
St. Rita’s Earth 2009, 10 (Double Magnum & 750)
and
Pinks Dry Rose 2013
Total of 60 bottles:
39 750 ml Bottles
10 1.5 Liter Magnums
10 3 Liter Double Magnums
1 5 Liter
Absolutely incredible!
Breathtaking!
What
more can be said?
Frank Ostini grew up in
and around the Casmalia
Hitching Post, his family’s
steakhouse on the Central
Coast of California since
1952. Specializing in
traditional wood fire
barbecue, Frank has
expanded his menu to cook
most anything over the
embers at his Hitching Post
II restaurant in Buellton,
California. With high
acclaim from the Los
Angeles Times, New York
Times, Gourmet and Sunset
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The gods made wine the best thing for mortal man to scatter cares.
Stasinus of Cyprus: The Cypria, seventh century B.C.
magazines and enthusiastic support from Chefs Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay, Frank has
become the regional spokesman for what is popularly known as “Santa Maria Style BBQ”, a
feast that features meats grilled over a red oak fire.
Many years ago, Frank expanded his interest in fine wine by being the President of the
now historic Central Coast Wine Society. Since 1984 Frank, with partner Gray Hartley, has
also made Hitching Post Wines, specializing in Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir. Frank has
recently received widespread international attention since his Hitching Post II and Hitching
Post Pinot Noirs were featured in the Academy Award-winning film Sideways.
Frank and Gray first made wine at home in 1979. They found their first Pinot Noir in 1981.
The project moved to a winery in 1984 to make wines exclusively for the Hitching Post
Restaurant. From 1991 to 2000, Frank and Gray made their wines at Au Bon Climat/Qupé
Winery, and from 2001 to 2007 at Central Coast Wine Services in Santa Maria. Production
has grown from 1200 cases in 1991 to 4700 in 2001 to over 15,000 cases in 2007. With the 2008
harvest, Frank and Gray have moved the winemaking to Terravant Winery, a new ultra
premium facility in Buellton, just one and a half miles from the Hitching Post II.
Frank and Gray believe that great wines are made in the vineyard. Their winemaking
philosophy is that they are caretakers who guide the wine into the bottle. As the wine
matures it is simply left to gently age in the barrel. This minimalist approach allows HartleyOstini Hitching Post wines to reflect the character of the vineyard and the vintage, preserving
the essence of the grape for you to enjoy when you open the bottle.
For example, a great example of these wines is Hitching Post “Perfect Set” Fiddlestix
Vineyard Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir. A special wine, it is meant to be among the very finest
of their Pinot Noirs. You might say that it is “As High As Highliner”!
Frank and Gray work with some of the best growers in Santa Barbara County, from the
quality vineyards of Santa Maria Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills and Los Alamos.
The grapes are picked in the early morning and destemed into 1.5 ton open-top fermentation
vats. Cold maceration is allowed for several days, then a cultured yeast is added to promote
a long and cool fermentation.
Then comes the manual punch downs from one to three times/day depending on the
stage of fermentation. Pressing occurs after 14-21 days directly into barrel (no settling of
solids). The wine rests in barrel until racking just before bottling. Most wines are aged in
French Oak barrels for 18 months and are bottled unfiltered.
The winery has 800 barrels and produces about 15,000 cases a year. “When we started to
make wine, I had one purpose,” says Frank. “To get good wine on my family restaurant’s
table-wine that I produced. Doing the food and wine together is all I ever wanted, and it’s
still all I really want to do.”
You will note that meaningful sharing philosophy in this amazing collection
based on the history of Gray’s and Frank’s extraordinary partnership in every
aspect of the production fine wine. Dinners at the Hitching Post carry the aura of
more than just the iconic film Sideways, the aura of a vision that has cuisine and
wine with the heart and soul of the dedicated visionary Chef Frank Ostini.
200
Thou hast made us drink the wine of astonishment.
Psalms 60:3, Old Testament
Donation of
Jim Clendenen
Au Bon Climat
Santa Maria & Buellton, California
And
Frank Ostini
Hartley-Ostini Wines
Buellton Hitching Post
Buellton, California
L o t
48
A 2014 Harvest Dinner with Jim Clendenen and Frank Ostini
for Twenty-Five Guests on October 18 of 2014, at Rancho La Cuna,
Jim’s Beautiful Ranch in Los Alamos, California, with Out-of-the-Box
Cuisine Prepared & Presented by a Chef Frank Ostini
with Reserve Library Wines from Au Bon Climat & Hartley-Ostini
Lunch at Au Bon Climat/Qupé winery; watch the harvest in action,
then move to Rancho La Cuna for the evening meal with Food provided
by the Hitching Post and wines in big bottle format from Margerum,
Qupé, Au Bon Climat and Hitching Post. Enjoy two great meals;
crush some grapes and imbibe lots of good wine!
This is a TRUE Celebration of Harvest, which as you know is a
challenging and fruitful (Pun Intended!) season for grape growers
and vintners. They pull out all the stops to assure excellent results
from whatever is presented to them by Mother Nature.
All the stoppers will be pulled this evening… As indicated,
the festivities will begin with an afternoon visit and tasting
at Au Bon Climat/Qupé, followed by dinner in the evening.
Places at this remarkable dinner are offered
at $750 per person to begin the bidding.
This unique dinner featuring the wines of two of the most celebrated
wine and food personalities will include a multi-course dinner
from the Central Coast’s most celebrated chef.
This will be a wholly remarkable evening of incredible
food, wine and companionship.
Dinner will be at the main house on the property, indoors or outdoors as suits the
circumstances. The lovely Rancho contains one a one-half acres of vineyards and thirteen
acres of olive trees. It is a very special venue, made
more special by the charm and enthusiasm of your
host. Jim has been a major contributor and
supporter of the Central Coast Wine Classic from its
inception, and his generosity in opening his home
and fine wines never ceases to amaze us.
Jim Clendenen graduated from the University of
California, Santa Barbara, with High Honors in PreLaw in 1976. It was during his “junior year abroad”
in 1974, while turning 21 in France, that he
discovered life beyond tacos. After graduation, a
one-month stay in both Burgundy and Champagne convinced him to attempt a career in wine
rather than continue on to law school.
Beginning with the 1978 harvest, Jim Clendenen was assistant winemaker at Zaca Mesa
Winery for three vintages, a valued training experience. In 1981 his vision broadened with
three harvests in one year as Jim worked crush and directed the harvest at wineries in
202
Lined along the wall, the great jars standing up, full of a rare nectar,
a wine worthy of the gods, mellowed by age and as sweet as honey.
Homer: The Odyssey
Australia and France. Three harvests in one year confirmed his masochistic tendencies.
In 1982, Clendenen decided, along with now ex-partner Adam Tolmach, to start his own
winery in leased quarters. Au Bon Climat (which means “a well exposed vineyard”) has grown
over its history to over 30,000 cases through careful re-investment from its own production.
The winery has cultivated an international reputation for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot
Blanc, and Pinot Gris. In 1989 and again in 1990, Au Bon Climat was on Robert Parker’s short
list of Best Wineries in the World. Jim Clendenen was selected by Oz Clark in 1991 as one of
fifty worldwide creators of Modern Classic Wines. That same year, Dan Berger of the Los
Angeles Times selected Clendenen as #8 in his Top Twenty California Winemakers. Berger then
named Clendenen as the “Los Angeles Times Winemaker of the Year” in 1992. Most recently,
Food & Wine Magazine named Jim “Winemaker of the Year” in 2001 and in 2004, Wein Gourmet,
Germany’s leading wine magazine, named Clendenen “Winemaker of the World.
Attending and supporting the Central Coast Wine Classic virtually from its beginning, no
individual has been more continuously supportive of the Central Coast Wine Classic than Frank
Ostini. His donations to the Live Auction alone have over the years raised over one quarter of
a million dollars for the event.
Frank is extraordinarily gracious, generous and gregarious when it comes to assisting others,
and he does so at a very high level, as The Hitching Post and Hitching Post Wines are held in
very high esteem by wine critics, collectors and gourmets alike. He has assisted with the Dinner
at Hearst Castle for many years, including being a featured chef on a number of occasions.
Frank Ostini grew up in and around the Casmalia Hitching Post, his family’s steakhouse on
the Central Coast of California since 1952. Specializing in traditional wood fire barbecue, Frank
has expanded his menu to cook most anything over the embers at his Hitching Post II
restaurant in Buellton, California. With high acclaim from the Los Angeles Times, New York
Times, Gourmet and Sunset magazines and enthusiastic support from Chefs Wolfgang Puck and
Bobby Flay, Frank has become the regional spokesman for what is popularly known as “Santa
Maria Style BBQ”, a feast that features meats grilled over a red oak fire.
Many years ago, Frank expanded his interest in fine wine by being the President of the now
historic Central Coast Wine Society. Since 1984 Frank, with partner Gray Hartley, has also
made Hitching Post Wines, specializing in Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir. Frank has recently
received widespread international attention since his Hitching Post II and Hitching Post Pinot
Noirs were featured in the Academy Award-winning film Sideways.
The winery has 800 barrels and produces about 15,000 cases a year. “When we started to
make wine, I had one purpose,” says Frank. “To get good wine on my family restaurant’s tablewine that I produced. Doing the food and wine together is all I ever wanted, and it’s still all I
really want to do”.
Frank Ostini lives near the restaurant in Buellton with wife, Jami and his two children, Gray
and Gabriella. When not in the restaurant or working in the winery, Frank is out promoting
“Santa Maria Style BBQ” and Santa Barbara County Wines at charity events across the country.
Frank Ostini and Gray Hartley work with some of the best growers in Santa Barbara County,
from the quality vineyards of Santa Maria Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills and Los
Alamos. The grapes are picked in the early morning and destemed into 1.5 ton open-top
fermentation vats. Cold maceration is allowed for several days, then a cultured yeast is added
to promote a long and cool fermentation.
Then comes the manual punch downs from one to three times/day depending on the stage
of fermentation. Pressing occurs after 14-21 days directly into barrel (no settling of solids). The
wine rests in barrel until racking just before bottling. Most wines are aged in French Oak
barrels for 18 months and are bottled unfiltered.
Frank and Gray believes that great wines are made in the vineyard. Their winemaking
philosophy is that they are caretakers who guide the wine into the bottle. As the wine matures
it is simply left to gently age in the barrel. This minimalist approach allows Hartley-Ostini
Hitching Post wines to reflect the character of the vineyard and the vintage, preserving the
essence of the grape for you to enjoy when you open the bottle.
Raise your paddles to join the party for another evening of extraordinary food,
wine and companionship brought to you by two of the Central Coast Wine Classic’s
most consistent and ardent supporters and to celebrate the 2013 Harvest!
205
The best medicine is wine.
Alcaeus: Fragments
Praise the wine that is old.
Pindar: Olympian Odes
Donation of
coconuts, pineapple, caramel, crème brulee, orange marmalade, and no doubt a few other
items. Unctuously textured and full-bodied, with massive richness and great sweetness, this
is a seamless classic that will probably be immortal. My point score continues to go up, but
the wine still is young, although I would call it just approaching its adolescence. Anticipated
maturity 2005 - 2075. Last tasted, 3/02.
Score: 98
Robert Parker, Bordeaux Book (4), December 2003
The 1983 ranks among the most concentrated wines from this property over the last
25 years (Wine Spectator 98 points; La Revue Au Vin du France 19/20), with a
staggering display of extract and a mind-boggling amount of glycerin. The vintage
commenced early for d’Yquem, beginning on September 29th and finishing on
November 18th. The 1983 is enormous, with huge, honeyed, pineapple, coconut,
and caramel flavors, massive extract, and an unctuous quality barely framed by
acidity and new oak. Twenty years ago, the wine had changed very little. Now it is
coming into its own and is held in such high esteem that it is ranked among the
greatest d’Yquems every produced. The list of the most heralded vintages is as
follows:
1825, 1847, 1865, 1870, 1904, 1921, 1937, 1945, 1947, 1959, 1967,
1983, 1986, 1988, 1990, 2001 & 2003
The vines consist of 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, though the latter’s vigor
implies the proportions are more nearly equal in the final wine.
Harvesting is carefully timed, and on average six pickings through the vineyard,
sometimes as many as ten, are undertaken each year to ensure that only the botrytized
grapes are selected. The yield averages nine hectolitres per hectare (2.5 acres), compared to
the usual twelve to twenty hectolitres per hectare in Sauternes. The grapes are pressed three
times and transferred to oak barrels for maturation over a period of about three years.
On average, 65,000 bottles are produced each year. In a poor vintage, the entire crop is
deemed unworthy of bearing the Château’s name and sold anonymously.
Double Magnums are rare, and from a great vintage they are exceedingly rare.
The color is impeccable as is the fill, indicating its perfect cellar conditions, its
exceptional present and its extraordinary future…
Charles & Beverly Rikel
Anaheim Hills, California
L o t
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One Double Magnum of 1983 Château d’Yquem, Sauternes, in Its
Original Wooden Box Emblazoned With the Château d’Yquem Crest
In 1988, the Auctioneer House Christie’s held a very comprehensive
Vertical Tasting of Château d’Yquem at the University Club in Chicago
hosted by then renowned wine expert Michael Broadbent.
Given the fact that d’Yquem has long been the most famous dessert wine
in the world and that the vintages to be tasted ranged from the
mid-1800s until 1983, wine aficionados from throughout
the United States merged on Chicago even though the tasting
was in the middle of winter, not the ideal time to visit Chicago.
At that time, the 1983 vintage was considered just an infant,
as d’Yquem will age beautifully for decades.
Interestingly, it was drinking quite well at the time, just not
very complex in its aromatics and flavor profile. It was obvious that the
wine was going to age beautifully and that its amazing balance and
texture would be constant and that its complexity would evolve within
the span of a couple of decades and remain for close to a century.
Per Robert Parker who tasted the wine once again 10 years after the Chicago Tasting.
The 1983 is among the most concentrated wines from this property over the last 20 years,
with a staggering display of extract and a mind-boggling amount of glycerin. The vintage
commenced early for Yquem, beginning on September 29 and finishing on November 18.
Most observers feel the 1983 will mature more slowly than the 1986, and will last for almost
100 years. Given Yquem’s unbelievable aging potential, such comments do not seem farfetched. At present, the 1983 is enormous, with huge, honeyed, pineapple, coconut, and
caramel flavors, massive extract, and an unctuous quality barely framed by acidity and new
oak. I do not feel the wine has changed since bottling, and I would not want to start drinking
it for at least another 10-15 years
Robert Parker, Bordeaux Book (3), November 1998
A wine that is just hitting its adolescence, this spectacular Yquem is the greateat vintage
of the early 1980s and the best Yquem since 1976 and before the trilogy of 1990, 1989, and
1988. The wine has a medium-gold color and an extraordinary nose of honey-dripped
206
207
For in the hand of the Lord there is a cup, and the wine is red.
Psalms 75:8
My land produces the life-giving medicine of Dionysus for all trouble.
Pindar: Paens
Donation of
Both of these gentlemen will be present at the dinner!
Seats at this One-of-a-Kind Dinner will begin at $1,000 Per Person and
will be sold to the Last Eight People Holding Paddles High to Bid.
David & Judy Breitstein
Woodland Hills, California
Karen MacNeil
Wine Educator & Author
Culinary Institute of America
St. Helena, California
And
Archie McLaren
L o t
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The Third Annual History of California Wine Dinner for Eight People,
based on the Donation of a Historic California Wine Collection
by David & Judy Breitstein to the Culinary Institute of America
in St. Helena, California, to be Held at the Culinary Institute of America
in St. Helena and Narrated by Wine Expert & Historian, Karen MacNeil,
Featuring Rare Collectibles that Form a Part of the Evolution
of California Wine, Including:
From the Cellar of David & Judy Breitstein
1969 Beaulieu Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon,
Private Reserve
1970 Heitz Cellar
Cabernet Sauvignon,
Martha’s Vineyard
1971 Mayacamas
Cabernet Sauvignon
1975 Spring Mountain
Cabernet Sauvignon
1978 Stag’s Leap Wine
Cellars Cabernet
Sauvignon, Lot 2
From the Cellar of Archie McLaren:
To begin the evening, Méthode Champenoise Sparkling wine
from Tonio Conti, a truly unique Central Coast wine that will be
disgorged the evening of the dinner.
1958 Inglenook Cask F-10 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
1959 Beaulieu Vineyards George de Latour Private Reserve
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
1968 Mayacamas Napa Valley Late Harvest Zinfandel
1970 Chappellet Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
In addition Mike Martini is adding at least 4 wines, all 1970s---Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection,
Louis Martini Barbera, Louis Martini Pinot Noir Special Selection,
and Louis Martini 68/70 Merlot—this was the first Varietal
Labeled Merlot produced in California!
AND
Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat will comb through his
early releases and provide a special handful of his beautifully aged
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
208
The progenitors of this incredible lot are David and Judy Breitstein, who, through their
renowned wine shop, the Duke of Bourbon in Canoga park, accumulated over the history of
the business a collection of over 150 historic California wines.
“The David & Judy Breitstein Collection,” the first major educational exhibit to document
the rich history of the California wine industry, was placed on permanent loan by the
Breitsteins at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. It was researched
and is curated by Karen MacNeil, Chairman of the Institute’s Rudd Center for Professional
Wine Studies. The collection is displayed in the Vintners Hall of Fame, which is the original
1899 barrel room of the Greystone Cellars and later , The Christian Brothers.
During the Central Coast Wine Classic several years ago, when Karen was a Symposium
host, the Breitsteins and formed the concept behind this amazing collection. Fittingly,
David, Judy and Karen are an integral part of this Wine Classic Auction offering. As you can
see from the list, there are a number of irreplaceable wines that will be served at the dinner,
including the transcendent 1966 Hanzell Pinot Noir (Think 1966 La Tache!) and 1970
Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon (Think 1961 Château Latour!).
David, Judy, Karen, Archie, Michael and Jim will host the dinner at the CIA. The
dinner must take place prior to May of 2015 at the mutual convenience of all parties.
Donation of
Tom & Kristen Boothe
Portland, Oregon
And
Archie McLaren
L o t
51
A Multi-Course Gourmet Dinner for Eight People,
in the Napa Valley or San Francisco, Showcasing 100-Point Wines!
Obviously, wines of such elevated stature per the fine wine authorities
are hard to come by and extremely
expensive. In fact, when the 100point score is recorded, the prices
shoot upward like Roman candles.
Add the profound demand of the
market in Hong Kong, Shanghai
and Macau, and you can readily
ascertain that are being offered
here are truly special and rare.
As you can ascertain from the
following list, Tom as usual
has gone over-the-top to incredibly
generously showcase world-class wines for your edification. The last
time such a dinner was offered
it took place at one of the Napa Valley’s great restaurants,
Michelin-Starred La Toque, owned by 2014 Hearst Castle Dinner Chef
Ken Frank. The dinner was a PERFECT complement to the wines.
Appetizers
1996 Krug – Archie & Carissa Cellar (The highest rated
Champagne in history at 99+ points!)
209
Wine, to a gifted bard, is a mount that merrily races;
From watered wits, no good has ever grown.
Cratinus, circa 475 B.C.
Dinner
2009 Pape Clement Blanc – Boothe Cellar
2009 Beaucastel Rousanne Vielles Vignes – Boothe Cellar
2004 Chapoutier Ermitage L’Ermite Blanc – Boothe Cellar
(None available- on the planet!)
2009 Chapoutier Blanc De L’Oree – Boothe Cellar
1999 Rostaing Cote Rotie Blonde - Archie & Carissa Cellar
1998 Guigal La Landonne – Archie & Carissa Cellar
1986 Château Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac – Boothe Cellar
1990 Château Margaux, Margaux – Boothe Cellar
1997 Harlan Estate Napa Valley Red Wine – Boothe Cellar
2007 Harlan Estate Napa Valley Red Wine – Boothe Cellar
2002 Quilceda Creek Washingtom Cabernet Sauvignon
– Archie & Carissa Cellar
2003 Quilceda Creek Washingtom Cabernet Sauvignon
– Archie & Carissa Cellar
2001 Château d’Yquem – Boothe Cellar
2001 Château Rieussec – Archie & Carissa Cellar
1997 Quinta do Noval Port – Boothe Cellar
As if the concept of a 100-point wine were not engaging enough, at this ten-course
dinner you will enjoy Sixteen –Wines, a stunning array, all 100 points on the
Robert M. Parker, Jr, scale! As previously indicated, these wines are extremely
difficult to obtain, some impossible to find. This will be an evening that you will
NEVER forget, a transcendent edification of the culinary and vinous arts at their
highest nexus.
Come enjoy some of the top rated wines in the world! Places at this special
dinner will begin at $2,500 per seat, gratuity included.
210
There is no gladness without wine.
Babylonian Talmud: Pesachim
Donation of
Karen Krahl
Artist
San Luis Obispo, California
L o t
a
52
“The Santa Lucias, and Edna Valley Vineyards,”
an Oil on Canvas Central Coast Wine Country Landscape
by Karen Krahl
This is the first year that extraordinarily interesting and
accomplished artist Karen Krahl has joined our Family of Artists.
We are very gratified that she would do so. She is a uniquely
special person with a multiplicity of interest and talents.
We suggest that you get to know her; we are thrilled to do so!
Per Karen, “Although not all the paintings I do are landscapes, nor oils, nor large, this one
is, and I chose to paint it that way or several reasons.
I find that certain
landscapes, offer shapes,
light, color, and challenges
that I find to be engaging
and uplifting. Looking at
them takes me to some
far off emotional space,
and makes my heart sing.
I love the many wonderful vistas in San Luis
Obispo County and the
Central Coast in general.
Being a highly visual person, I made living somewhere beautiful a priority.
I had been all over California, but was captivated by
the drive down through Big Sur, Cambria, Cayucos, and Morro Bay, on Highway One. As it took
me past the Seven Sisters I was in awe. When I moved here several years later, I was visiting a
colleague whose home, above the Country Club, overlooked Edna Valley and the Santa Lucia
mountain range, and at that moment, was captivated by it.
Though not enormous, nor craggy, that range became one of my favorite views, and
again, years later, I was able to purchase a piece of property and built a home, on a hill, on
the other side of Edna Valley, from the Santa Lucia’s with a180 degree view of a favorite
sight. It’s the first thing I see in the morning and the last at night.
There are many colors, moods, seasons, hues and lighting throughout the year, so I never
tire of it. I thought perhaps to share this ever changing display of nature, geography and
perhaps geology, with art collectors who love this area too. Edna valley is a wine appellation
of not only chardonnay but is also famous for its Pinot Noir. I enjoy the different patterns
and the colors that the vineyards themselves contribute to the landscape of Edna, changing
their palette, like I change mine, depending on the season, or time of day. When I first came
to SLO, the valley was mostly a grassland used for grazing. Now it has taken on different
dimensions as the vineyard culture has evolved. So I included the vineyards. I chose a
particular day, setting, light, and striking cumulus clouds to depict.
In the foreground there are horses grazing, creating a pastoral setting. It is a common sight
around the county, and the season is spring, where there is a little something to graze.
Oil is not my only medium, I like gouache, pastel, graphite, ink, and acrylic. But oil was
213
No thing more excellent or more valuable than wine was ever granted mankind by God.
Plato
my first love...I enjoy the fact it gives me time to think and change things before it dries, it
allows me to layer things...thick or thin. It is lasting, durable, and fun to work with, there’s
a richness to it. The feel of the paint on my brush, the sound it makes when I’m using a dry
brush technique, and all of the above is why I work in it so often.
My artistic vision involves depicting real or abstracted things, with vivid textures and
colors, that in some way move me and would move the viewer as well. Some landscapes
show action, a vista, an event, and create a feeling that a viewer might want to feel again.
People who collect my art like to tell me what the painting makes them feel. Feeling is how
we get in touch with deeper parts of ourselves, perhaps our hearts, and more importantly
our souls. Inviting a particular painting into your life for keeping, is more than hanging
something vivid on your wall. It’s treating yourself to a kind of personal renaissance when
you genuinely engage with beauty, craft, or nature in your home or place of work. I think a
painting can be a window for looking into what matters most, that is, to you.
I have personal collection of my own paintings and if they make me feel different things
each time I see them and enjoy them, then perhaps someone else would too.
What it does for me as an artist is keeps me living in the moment. It is an incredible balm
for the heart and soul. You really can’t do anything else when you’re doing it, except perhaps
listen to music, so it focuses the senses, and this is particularly soulful, to be focused, it’s a
fine privilege. I don’t always paint alone, I can paint with others, but it’s difficult to talk and
paint at the same time...different part of the brain.
Having spent the first part of my life as a painter and artist, then the mid part as a healer,
now this part, hopefully a long one, I get to be what I was destined to be all along, an artist,
photographer, writer, musician, poet, cook, equestrian....all art forms, with an insightful
compassionate heart.” – Karen
We told you she was wholly remarkable. Now you have the opportunity to have
Karen Krahl’s wondrous energy as an aesthetic part of your home.
214
I like best the wine drunk at the cost to others.
Diogenes the Cynic
Donation of
Wine
Harvey Steiman
Spectator Editor at Large
San Francisco, California
and
Archie McLaren
L o t
53
Dinner for Eight People with Harvey & Archie
at Hakkasan in San Francisco,
Featuring Remarkable Wines from Australia
You will experience the following wines. If the bidding is strong,
you may see additions such as1991 Penfolds Grange Hermitage
for example, a phenomenal wine from a terrific vintage!
Per Harvey, regarding the wines he will be bringing to the dinner,
“10- to 15-year-old Pewsey Vale Contours,
Yalumba’s Eden Valley Riesling released at 10 years.
Leeuwin Estate Chardonnay 2001.
Clarendon Hills 2001 Syrah Hickinbotham Vineyard
and 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Hickinbotham Vineyard,
plus the 2004 Syrah Astralis.
Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon Black Label 1998.
I have many rare Muscats to select from for dessert.”
And keep in mind that if the bidding is quite
enthusiastic 1991 Grange and perhaps other extraordinary
wines will arrive at the table…
Located on the second floor of the iconic One Kearny
building in downtown San Francisco, Hakkasan, one of
Harvey’s favorite restaurants, opened its doors in
November 2012 – a stunning 10,000 sq ft space that
accommodates up to 170 guests.
Hakkasan San Francisco overlooks the bustling Market
and Geary Streets, and benefits from natural light during
the day and hand-blown glass pendants at night, with a
spectacular bronze-coloured V-shaped bar as the
restaurant’s centrepiece.
Featuring two private dining rooms, the speciallycreated menu includes both Hakkasan classics and new
dishes such as the following JUST from the poultry section of the menu:
Sanpei chicken claypot with Thai sweet basil
Jasmine tea smoked chicken
Pipa duck
Black truffle roasted duck with tea plant mushroom
Peking duck with Tsar Nicoulai ‘Reserve’ caviar - whole duck, 16 pancakes and
scallion. Second course with choice of XO sauce or black bean sauce
Crispy fried free-range chicken with lemon sauce
Stir-fry spicy duck breast claypot with Chinese leek and Szechuan peppercorn sauce
You can just imagine how incredible Harvey’s wine pairings will be with these rich and
creative course!
This is the Lucky Thirteenth such dinner offered by Ultra-Gourmet Fine Wine Maven
Harvey Steiman and Archie McLaren, and they were interested in presenting some special
wines from Australia’s iconic terroirs that are dear to their palates.
216
When there is no wine, love perishes, and everything else that is pleasant to man.
Euripides: The Bacchae
Harvey is one of the wine and food world’s most gracious, enjoyable and interesting
dinner companions. His knowledge of wine and food pairings is voluminous, his expertise
coming from years of experience including his monthly wine and food menus for Wine
Spectator. Harvey also has very broad interests, hence, conversations with him tend to be
most interesting and pleasant.
Writing cover stories and columns, creating a monthly menu matching food and wine, and
being a regular member of the tasting panel that reviews thousands of wines each year,
Harvey became and continues to be widely read and universally respected as a wine and
culinary authority and teacher. Although he has an interest in and knowledge of a vast array
of wines, from single vineyard Italian wines to the great Burgundies and Bordeaux of France
to the very finest California wines, he is considered a specialist in the wines of Australia,
Italy, New Zealand and the Pacific Northwest. Harvey will share his vast knowledge with
you during this unforgettable evening of extraordinary food and wine pairings and
conversation.
Harvey has authored various cookbooks including Harvey Steiman’s California Kitchen,
Great Recipes from San Francisco, and Chinese Technique with Ken Hom. His most recent
book is the popular and widely reviewed Wine Spectator’s Essentials of Wine: A Guide to the
Basics.
Harvey and Archie are hosting this special wine dinner with incredible wines at
one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s superlative restaurants. This is a dinner you
do not want to miss! In the opinion of one of the world’s foremost gourmets and
Australian wine authorities, Harvey Steiman, “It should be epic!”
The gratuity is the responsibility of the winning bidders. This dinner must be
scheduled at the mutual convenience of all parties prior to June of 2015.
Donation of
Brian and Judy Robertson
Robertson International Travel
Crystal Cruises
Four Seasons
Singapore & Hong Kong
and
Belmond Hotels
Cambodia
L o t
54
We Invite You To Join Us
Aboard Crystal Cruises in Southeast Asia!
Two people will travel on a Truly Exotic and Educational Wine
and Food Festival Experience in Southeast Asia from January 27 to
February 13, 2015 with CRYSTAL CRUISES, the number one cruise line
in the world, celebrating their 25th Anniversary in 2015!
We know you will be thrilled with your luxurious veranda stateroom.
World Renowned Chefs and Wine Experts will be aboard to share their
talents at lectures, special meals and tastings. Your Auction also includes
your stays in the most luxurious and desirable hotels in Southeast Asia
including your 2 night Pre-Cruise accommodations at the Four Seasons
Singapore in deluxe view accommodations, your 2 night overland stay
at the Belmond Residence d’Angkor in Cambodia and 2 night Post-Cruise
harbor view accommodations at the Four Seasons Hong Kong.
An exceptionally exotic experience!
Air and Land Arrangements, as well as Abercrombie and Kent luxury
concierge services are not included in this auction lot
Lot includes hotel stays, the cruise and cruise amenities
218
What is this life you are so sure about? A flame that kindles, flashes and goes out,
The unchanging heaven and the eternal sea; Serve but to mock our mutability.
And you before this wine who hesitate; For what, I ask you frankly, do you wait? –Li Po
In addition to this auction lot, which includes the Crystal Cruise and six
nights luxurious hotel accommodations with Four Seasons and Belmond
Hotels and Resorts, Archie McLaren and Carissa Chappellet welcome you
to join them on an extended and unprecedented luxurious Southeast Asia
Excursion. Many exceptional amenities are included, plus special and
private events including master cooking classes in Singapore and Hong
Kong! Archie & Carissa’s detailed brochure is available through Robertson
International Travel Consultants, 225 East Carrillo Street, Suite 302,
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Telephone: (805) 969-3221.
Winning Bidder may, for an additional charge, purchase the extended trip
which includes all the amenities mentioned in the itinerary below. A
limited number of additional places are available.
Itinerary
for
Extended Trip
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Arrival in Singapore
Evening arrival at Singapore International Airport. After proceeding through Customs and
Immigration, your Abercrombie and Kent Representative will meet you and provide
individual private car transfer to your hotel, the Four Seasons Singapore.
Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences
from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy,
colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of
Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of
the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and
polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices
and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed
as the “Crossroads of the East.”
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Singapore
Our first day in Singapore starts
with a delightful tour of Singapore
to include Little India, Arab Street,
Chinatown, and a private charter
boat ride on The Bum. We
disembark at Merlion Park for a
photo stop and continue to our
lunch at The True Blue (Peranakan
Cruise). Following lunch, we enjoy
a Private Cooking Session at
Coriander Leaf. The demonstration
is hands-on and interactive
allowing participants to be fully
involved in the preparation and
cooking of the dishes from
Southeast Asia and Middle East plus the Coriander Leaf wine tasting under the guidance of
the Coriander Chef and Kitchen Assistants. We return to the Four Seasons Singapore for a rest
before our evening private charter Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel with Champagne Cocktails
followed by our dinner at Halia Restaurant, located in the one-hectare Ginger Garden of the
Singapore Botanic Gardens where over 250 species of gingers with their stunning foliage and
colorful flowers thrive. Following dinner, we return to our hotel, the Four Seasons Singapore.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Singapore – Crystal Symphony
This morning we continue our exploration of
Singapore with our Abercrombie and Kent guide to
include the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest with
our lunch served at Pollen Restaurant located in
219
This is the wine cellar, the place for the produce of the vine is in it.
One is merry in it. And the heart of him who goes forth from it rejoices.
Egyptian wine cellar inscription circa 2500 B.C.
the Flower Dome Gardens by the Bay. We enjoy the delicious Fusion Cuisine of Michelin
Star Chef Jason Atherton.
Following lunch, we return to the Four Seasons Singapore to check-out and transfer to our
home for the next two weeks, the luxurious CRYSTAL SYMPHONY to commence our
Crystal Food and Wine Festival Cruise from Singapore to Hong Kong. We are
overnight in Singapore.
Friday, January 30, 2015
Singapore
Today we have a free day in Singapore to
enjoy this wonderful city with independent
activities or take a Crystal Symphony Shore
Excursion to explore your own interests.
Back on board at 5:00pm! We sail from
Singapore at 6:00pm.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Cruising the South China Sea
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Koh Samui, Thailand Arrive: 8:00am Depart: 4:00pm
This emerald isle off Thailand’s
southeast coast, ringed by lovely
beaches and gorgeous bays, enjoys both
the fun-loving nature of the Thai people,
and the peaceful serenity of Buddhism.
Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Hin Lut
and Na Muang, marvel at the enormous
Buddha statue on Fan Isle, or just listen
to the breeze whisper in the leaves of a
coconut plantation.
Monday, February 2, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Bangkok/Laem Chabang, Thailand Arrive: 7:00am Depart: 6:00pm
The port city of Laem Chabang is your gateway to Bangkok, Thailand’s glittering capital.
This “City of Angels” is a lustrous city of immense Oriental charm, festooned with ornate
temples, shrines and a lacework of canals. Towering golden spires reach for the heavens while
sunlight glistens on the majestic Royal Palace and boats laden with produce drift up and down
the canals. Shining through this dream-like setting is the hospitality and warmth of the gentle
Thais. These talented people have raised folk dance to high art, created mouth-watering
cuisine and built a splendid capital, unique in all the world.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Crystal Symphony
(Overland Excursion to Angkor Wat)
Sihanoukville, Cambodia Arrive: 10:00am Depart: 11:00pm
Founded in 1964 to be Cambodia’s primary deepwater port, Sihanoukville has since become
a popular tourist destination. It is no wonder, as this spot on the Gulf of Thailand features
tropical breezes and beautiful beaches, while nearby islands promise fantastic diving,
snorkeling and game fishing. Just inland is the wonder of Angkor Wat, offering an intriguing
glimpse into the spectacular achievements of Southeast Asia’s greatest civilization. The ruins
of this 800-year-old city were rediscovered in the late 19th century and bears testament to the
influence this once-powerful city has on Cambodia’s modern culture.
Upon arrival in Sihanoukville, Abercrombie & Kent will meet us on the pier to commence
a brief city tour to include Chotngean Pagoda, a panorama of the City and the Fishing
220
Therefore God gave thee of the dew of heaven,
and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine.
Genesis 27:28, New Testament
Satisfy your hearts with food and wine,
for therein is courage and strength.
Homer: The Iliad
Village. Our tour ends at the Sokha Beach Resort for lunch. Following lunch, we are
transferred to the Sihanoukville Airport for our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival,
we are transferred to our hotel, the Belmond Residence d’ Angkor. This evening, we
enjoy our “Welcome to Angkor Wat Dinner” at ‘L Aberge des Temples Restaurant at
Angkor Village serving Khmer Culinary Traditions with local ingredients.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
Following breakfast, we
commence our sightseeing
of Angkor Wat to include
Angkor Thom, a 15-20
minute elephant ride of
Banyon, the Elephant
Terrace and a delightful
boat ride on Tonie Sap
Lake. For those wishing to
see the sunrise over
Angkor Wat, there will be
an optional “Sunrise at
Angkor” tour offered with a special breakfast at the Ta Lek Gate. Our lunch will be served at
Viroth’s, a culinary treat with the Kol Family.
We have a restful afternoon and prepare for our evening Gala Angkor Wat Dinner at
Thommanon Temple with torches and candlelight including traditional dances, giant
shadow puppets and Cambodian traditonal music. This will be an evening, never to be
forgotten.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Siem Reap / Angkor Wat / Crystal Symphony
We start early this morning with transfer to Ta Prohm Temple by remorks (like tuk tuks).
We visit a Buddhist monastery for Alms offering and the monks blessing. Afterwards, we
return to our hotel for Breakfast. Following breakfast, we visit Banteay Srei and Banteay
Samre followed by our lunch at the Foreign Correspondents Club. This afternoon, we visit
Preah Khan Temple the Central Market and Les Artisans D’Angkor. Late afternoon, we
transfer to the Siem Reap Airport for our early
evening flight to Ho Chi Minh City and rejoin our
Crystal Symphony with dinner served on board.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Ho Chi Minh City Depart: 3:00pm
Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and
affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a
stimulating insight into Vietnam’s eventful past and
a glimpse into its hopeful future. Over two decades
have passed since American forces left these shores.
Since then, Ho Chi Minh City has regained a
prosperous air of
thriving activity. Rice
boats float down the
waterways, streets
bustle with commerce,
scooters speed by and a sense of history fills the air. There are
quiet temples to discover, French colonial public buildings to
admire and numerous street markets to stroll. Visitors to Ho Chi
Minh City can be assured of a friendly and hospitable welcome.
Ho Chi Minh City serves as our main gateway to the alluring
wonders of Cambodia (Kampuchea).
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Crystal Symphony
Cruising the Coast of Vietnam
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Chan May, Vietnam Arrive: 8:00am Depart: 8:00pm
In Chan May, Crystal Cruises will dock closer to Hue, allowing you to see this important
imperial city at a more relaxed pace.
Indeed, Hue (pronounced “hway”) merits a full-day excursion. Having served as the
Vietnamese capital from 1802 to 1945, the city was home to thirteen emperors of the Nguyen
Dynasty. Its three walled enclosures, built concentrically around one another, are collectively
called the Citadel-an appropriate name, given that the emperor and his family lived within the
Forbidden Purple City, located at the Citadel’s center. The term “Forbidden” is appropriate too,
as the Royal Palace resembles Beijing’s Forbidden City.
Fascinating as it is, Hue is not the only sight to be explored during your call in Chan May.
You will also have a chance to visit the historic commercial seaport of Hoi An, see the city of Da
Nang, or head to China Beach, the stretch of sand that offered some R & R to U.S. soldiers during
the Vietnam
Monday, February 9, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Sanya, China Arrive: 8:00am Depart: 3:00pm
On the southern edge of the southernmost province of China, Sanya has a distinct place on
the map, and in the minds of travelers. Coming here to enjoy Sanya’s tropical clime, sojourners
have made the city a favorite destination. In fact, Sanya sits across the Gulf of Tonkin from
Vietnam and is equally warm, breezy and balmy, prompting some to compare this coastal
region to the South Pacific and call Sanya and its environs the “Oriental Hawaii”.
No doubt you will find this appraisal to be apt as you discover scenery of mountains, sea,
river, beach and city. Explore the area’s three photogenic bays, Yalong Wan, Dadonghai and
Sanya, and head out to Wuzhizhou Island in Haitang Bay to appreciate natural landscapes and
well-developed facilities. The beautifully located Buddhist Nanshan Temple, located about 25
miles from Sanya, is well worth a visit, as is Monkey Island, a nature reserve that is home to
approximately 2,000 monkeys and China’s longest over-water cable car.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Crystal Symphony
Hong Kong, China Arrive
3:00pm Overnight
Although Hong Kong has returned
to its original Chinese roots, it still
remains a cosmopolitan city with
influences, languages and accents
from around the world. Here East
meets West and the result is electric.
Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial
concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style
commerce into perfect harmony. The bustling city streets are lined with teeming markets and
sophisticated boutiques tucked tightly into any available crevice. Some of the world’s best shopping
is found in Central, located on Hong Kong Island and only a short ferry ride away.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Crystal Symphony / Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong, China Disembark 9:00am
Upon disembarkation at Ocean Terminal, we are met by Abercrombie and Kent and
transferred to the Star Ferry for the ride across Victoria Harbor to Hong Kong Island. After
a brief stroll around Central Square, we transfer to the Sheung Wan Dried Food Market, a
ride on the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of Hong Kong and the Aberdeen
Fishing Village. Our Dim Sum lunch will be served in the private room of the China Club,
223
And in this mountain shall the Lord of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things,
a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined
Isaiah 25:6
a Hong Kong tradition in the old world. Following our lunch, we will be transferred to our
hotel, the Four Seasons Hong Kong.
This evening, we are transferred to the pier to board our private boat, the Aqualina, a
traditional Chinese Junk for a one hour Victoria Harbor Cruise to enjoy the night sights of
Hong Kong Harbor, ending at the Lei Yu Mun Seafood Village situated at Hong Kong’s
Eastern Harbor and still carrying much of Chinese heritage, widely known to gourmets as
a seafood paradise. We enjoy our gourmet dinner with many traditional scenes. Following
dinner, we are returned to our hotel, the Four Seasons Hong Kong.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Hong Kong, China
This morning, we start our day with a morning Tai Chi lesson with a Tai Chi Master.
Following breakfast, we are transferred to the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute, boasting
an array of world class facilities in Chinese Cuisine training. We participate in in our Private
Tailor-Made and hands-on Cooking Class followed by lunch at the Institute. Following lunch,
we are returned to our hotel, the Four Seasons Hong Kong. This evening, we enjoy our
Central Coast Wine Classic Farewell Dinner at the Lung King Heen, the first Chinese
Restaurant in the world to receive the coveted 3 Star Michelin.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Hong Kong, China – U.S.A.
Today we check out of our hotel, the Four Seasons Hong Kong and provided private
transfers to our individual flights from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.
Welcome Home!
Donation of
of
The
The Marin County Chapter
International Wine & Food Society
Chairman, Jack Rubyn
Sausalito, California
L o t
55
For Two People, the Marin County Chapter’s “Annual Black Tie
Bordeaux Evening & Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Luncheon”
on Friday Evening August 1 and Saturday, August 2, 2014
at Spago Beverly Hills
Friday Dinner Wine List
Reception
2002 Cristal Champagne
& Dinner &
1999 Bâtard-Montrachet - Leflaive
1975 Château Figeac
1970 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou
1982 Château Lynch-Bages
1928 Château Palmer
1963 Graham Vintage Port
Saturday Luncheon Wine List
Reception
1985 Dom Pérignon Champagne
& Luncheon &
1999 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet
Lefl aive
1991 Romanée-Saint-Vivant - DRC
1990 Grands Échezeaux -Engel
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The gods made wine the best thing for mortal man to scatter cares.
Stasinus of Cyprus: The Cypria, seventh century B.C.
1978 & 1988 La Tâche - DRC
1963 Cockburn Vintage Port
(Chairman’s DRC Surprise)
As stated by Society Chairman Jack Rubyn, “We are delighted to celebrate a decade and a
half of our annual Wine and Food adventures in Beverly Hills. Our esteemed member Ed
Lazarus has once again assembled an outstanding wine selection for our Friday night “Black
Tie” Bordeaux evening and our sensational Saturday DRC luncheon. Beverly Hills is a
captivating city to visit during August, warm Southern California weather, outdoor dining
and pleasurable strolls in the most glamorous of settings.
Our events are always held at Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago Beverly Hills
Restaurant. Wolfgang always dazzles us from start to finish with his spectacular Hors
d’oeuvre followed by course after course of his special dishes featuring the freshest
ingredients available. The menu is never announced in advance, until two days before the
event, in order for him to make his final special selections for our group.
We are fortunate indeed to have a well preserved cellar of outstanding wines collected
over three and a half decades. Every bottle is impeccably preserved in perfect storage
conditions. We have had the great fortune of flawless presentations at our prior events, and
members and guests have been delighted at the quality of our rare vintage selections.
We hope you will enjoy reading the attached announcement and consider joining us for
yet another great adventure in Food and Wine, carefully presented in the grand dining
standards of The International Wine & Food Society.
The International Wine and Food Society – the gastronomic society which pioneered the
appreciation of wine and food back in 1933 (led by our founders André Simon and A J A
Symons) and today remains the gateway to the enjoyment of wine and food for you to
explore at your leisure.
As André Simon said in 1933 ...
“The object of the Society is to bring together and serve all who believe that a right
understanding of good food and wine is an essential part of personal contentment and
health and that an intelligent approach to the pleasures and problems of the table offers far
greater rewards than the mere satisfaction of appetite”.
The IF&WS is still an independent organization run on a voluntary basis by enthusiastic
members. With over 6,000 members worldwide, based in 30 countries, it can offer
membership almost anywhere in the world and give you the opportunity to be part of this
truly unique gastronomic journey.
As the world’s oldest, and largest, wine and food society the IW&FS has a wealth of
experience, knowledge and contacts to draw from, to arrange both traditional and innovative
events which will captivate and inspire you. Consider a tasting of 1982 Bordeaux in Sydney,
a DRC Burgundy tasting in Mumbai or lunch at Roux at The Landau or Roux at Parliament
Square, London to celebrate the Society’s 80th anniversary. It even runs local (weekends in
Kuala Lumpur or Taipei for example), regional (Mediterranean or Caribbean cruises) and
international (Vancouver was host to our last; Melbourne our next) wine and food events on
a regular basis – and it is, of course, your choice as to how much you can or would like to
embrace and be part of these gatherings.
The Marin Branch is in its third decade and proudly moves forward carrying on the ideals
of IWFS founder André Simon, and iconic branch founders Haskell and Rachel Norman.
Breathtaking Wining and Dining Experience Among Top Gourmets and Wine
Aficionados We Can Assure You!
To confirm your reservation joining Archie McLaren there we must add, please contact:
Jack Rubyn, Chairman
International Wine & Food Society
Marin Branch
P.O. Box 987
Sausalito, CA 94966-0987
415.332.6937
415.250.4240 World Cell
415.332.0738 FAX
www.iwfsmarin.com
226
Thou hast made us drink the wine of astonishment.
Psalms 60:3, Old Testament
Donation of
Fry’s Electronics
San Jose, California
2014 Frys.com Open,
a
PGA Golf Tour
Napa, California
L o t
56
The Frys.com Open Leads the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Schedule
October 6-12, 2014 at the Silverado Resort & Spa in Napa, California
The 2014 Honorary Observer “Inside The Ropes” Package
and Fairway Club Hospitality for Four People:
There’s only one thing better than watching the world’s best golfers compete on the PGA
TOUR at the 2014 Frys.com Open – experiencing it as an Honorary Observer! You and your executive level guests are invited to be a part of the 2014 Honorary Observer
program, and will walk inside the ropes for an entire round with a group of PGA TOUR players.
Your day at the Frys.com Open will be the experience of a lifetime. As part of the
experience, you’ll have your name announced to the gallery on the first tee, just like the
stars on the PGA TOUR.
Frys.com Open
Honorary Observer “Inside The Ropes” Package includes:
Invitation for Two to Experience the PGA TOUR
from Inside The Ropes as Honorary Observers
Includes a Frys.com Open logo Shirt and Cap
for each Honorary Observer
Includes Weekly Tournament Access for Two
for Each Honorary Observer
Includes Weekly VIP Parking Pass for Each Honorary Observer
Frys.com Open Fairway Club Hospitality Package includes:
Access to the tournament grounds and Fairway Club
Hospitality area for four guests per day,
Thursday, October 9 through Sunday, October 12, 2014.
Includes hosted lunch and full bar service.
The Frys.com Open leads the new, reconfigured 2013-2014 PGA TOUR schedule as the
tournament returns to CordeValle Golf Club October 7-13, 2013. Launched in 2006, the Frys.
com Open is an official PGA TOUR tournament benefiting many local and national charities
that are working to improve the lives of others. Title sponsor Fry’s Electronics is a privately
owned retailer with 34 nationwide locations headquartered in San Jose, California.
Information is available on FrysOpenGolf.com or on Facebook and Twitter.
A California landmark for more than 140 years, Silverado Resort and Spa began its life as
a private estate and was converted into a contemporary resort featuring 390 guest rooms, a
15,000-square foot conference space, two PGA championship golf courses and two signature
restaurants. Now owned by World Golf Hall of Fame member and lead NBC analyst Johnny
Miller, the resort recently underwent renovations to its North Course and will see rooms and
event space renovations in 2013. Surrounded by Napa Valley’s more than 540 wineries, the
resort also features a 16,000 square foot spa, 10 secluded swimming pools, 13 tennis courts
and other recreational offerings. For more information on the resort or to make reservations,
please visit SilveradoResort.com or call (1) 707-257-0200 or (1) 800-532-0500.
The Wine Classic’s Dear Friend John Fry, one of the owner’s of Fry’s Electronics,
which sponsors the Dinner at Hearst Castle, has used his “influence” to arrange
this wonderful auction offering for us. You can anticipate that the tournament will
be filled with exciting moments, and you will be in propitious locations throughout
to see the best of the best in the golfing world!
229
Lined along the wall, the great jars standing up, full of a rare nectar,
a wine worthy of the gods, mellowed by age and as sweet as honey.
Homer: The Odyssey
The best medicine is wine.
Alcaeus: Fragments
Donation of
Donation of
Niven Family Wine Estates
San Luis Obispo, California
L o t
57
“Paul Gaugin Series,” Three Magnums Etched and Hand-Painted
by Candice Norcross with the Art of Iconic French Impressionist Artist,
Paul Gaugin, One Each:
2012 Baileyana Edna Valley Firepeak Estate Vineyard Syrah,
Etched & Hand-Painted with “Landscape from Bretagne”-1889
2012 Baileyana Edna Valley Firepeak Estate Vineyard
Firepeak Cuvée Pinot Noir-“Rue de Tahiti”- 1891
2012 Baileyana Edna Valley Firepeak Estate Vineyard
Firepeak Cuvée Chardonnay- “Mata Mua”- 1892
Total of Three Magnums
The Niven Family, beginning with Jack and Catherine Niven
during the early years of our event, and continuing with John R. and
Yvonne Niven, as well as Vintner Committee member, John H. Niven,
and Michael Blaney, have substantively supported the Wine Classic
virtually since its inception. John R.’s sister and brother,
Jane and James, have also been extremely supportive.
The Nivens have set the standard for family involvement in the
Edna Valley wine community, beginning with Jack’s planting grapes in the
Edna Valley in the early 70s and in establishing Edna Valley Vineyard in
1981, and Catherine’s founding of Baileyana. There is no doubt why the
Nivens are termed the “First Family” of San Luis Obispo Wine Country.
At the heart of the Baileyana program are wines from the Firepeak Vineyard, a lowyielding parcel on a high piece of ground that produces intense Edna Valley fruit. Adjacent
to our estate vineyard, the Firepeak Vineyard lies at the foot of Islay Mountain, the final
peak in the chain of the “Seven Sisters”.
The Firepeak Vineyard is located at the base of an extinct volcano—one of seven in a
chain that begins at Baileyana and ends north in the ocean off Morro Bay. The newly
bearing vineyard boasts unique soils, which combine marine sediment with volcanic
detritus. Everything the owners (the Niven family) have learned in thirty years of research
and grape growing has gone into this vineyard. Utilizing knowledge gained from generations
of viticultural experience in the Edna Valley, the Niven family planted the vineyard with
careful attention to the requirements of the location and soils. Contrary to common practice,
rows are sited in a north-south orientation, encouraging better maturation of the fruit. A
simple catch-wire system of trellising takes advantage of the prevailing breezes.
The carefully selected clones, matched to specific rootstocks, provide Roguenant with a
variety of flavor profiles to blend to his specification. The 2007 vintage was a terrific one.
The resulting wines are elegant with concentrated and have complex varietal characteristics.
When you think of great Central Coast Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah, you naturally
think of the Edna Valley. When you ponder substantive art, you arguably probably conjure
the most famous artist of all time. And if you want to put them together in an exquisite
package for the wine and art lover, you call upon Candice Norcross to create the bottle art.
The Niven family, owners of Paragon Vineyard and aficionados of fine art and who are
always eager to combine it with the art of the vintner, has once again bestowed a perfect
marriage of the two upon our auction. This gorgeous lot presents the fine wine making of
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and now Syrah, superstar winemaker Christian Roguenant.
As previously mentioned, the vintages represented here are outstanding at the now
renowned Firepeak Vineyard in the Edna Valley, and these bottles will afford
substantial drinking pleasure and still retain their roles as lovely art forms.
230
Steve & Judy Padis
San Francisco & Napa, California
Joseph & Patricia Harbison
and
Archie McLaren & Carissa Chappellet
Avila Beach, Big Sur & St. Helena, California
L o t
58
The Napa Valley Cult Cabernet Sauvignon and Napa Valley
Bordeaux Varietal Blends Dinner for Six People (Three Couples)
in the Wine Cave of the Napa Valley Home of Steve & Judy Padis, Including
Overnight Accommodations in the Padis Home Overlooking the Napa Valley
And
A Padis Jewelry Plus Wine-Themed Gift Will Be Bestowed Upon Each of
Three Winning Bidder Couples by Steve and Judy!
Also Included if You Wish Are Tours & Tastings at Several of the
Wineries Whose Wines Will be Featured, including Vineyard 29 &
Chappellet, astounding properties with equally astounding wines.
Redemption of this lot must take place prior to May of 2015!!!
One of our Most Popular and SoughtAfter Offerings, and the most amazing
array of Napa Valley Cult Wines you will
ever experience at dinner!
Join Archie McLaren & Carissa
Chappellet and Joe and Pat Harbison, as
they journey to the hillside just west of
Highway 29 at Yountville to enjoy the
amazing panoramic views of the Napa
Valley and the incredible hospitality of
Steve and Judy Padis.
The 6,000 square foot home has five
bedroom suites that will nurture you after your evening of enjoying the most highly rated
and exciting Cabernet Sauvignon based
wines in the world.
Some of the wines that will be featured
with the dinner are listed below. The
vintages will depend on what is available
and drinking well from the cellars of your
hosts. You may be assured that choices will
be spectacular:
These wines need no description for
those of you who are either fortunate
enough to be on their mailing lists or who
are trying desperately to get on. Included
are six of the most sought-after wines in
America, with Araujo, Bryant, Colgin,
Grace Family, Harlan, Maya and Scarecrow
on every collector’s wish list, and each one
stunningly expensive, equally so both in
restaurants and at auction. It is not unusual for vintages of these wines to receive scores in
the very high 90’s, sometimes perfect scores of 100!
Please observe the list of producers that will virtually certainly be presented at the dinner.
231
Praise the wine that is old.
Pindar: Olympian Odes
Vintages will vary according to what Steve & Judy, Joe & Pat and Archie & Carissa have in
their cellars.
From Your Hosts, Steve, Judy, Joe, Pat, Carissa and Archie:
Chappellet
Harbison
Padis
Colgin
Continuum
Bryant
Dalla Valle Maya
Grace Family
Araujo
Switchback Ridge
Harlan
Vineyard 29
Scarecrow
Schrader
Shafer
Chardonnays from Padis, Harbison & Chappellet to begin…
A Total of Fifteen Cult Cabernets Three Chardonnays and Dinner overlooking the
Napa Valley! And with amiable and interesting companions! It truly doesn’t get
any better than this!
Donation of
D. Scott Farmer & Mia B. Ballentine
Centennial, Colorado
and
Archie McLaren
L o t
59
And if You Were Unable to Get a Seat at the Cult Cabernet Dinner at the
Padis Home, A 30 Bottle Collection of California Napa Valley and Washington
State Cult Cabernet Sauvignon, Including One Each of the Following:
Araujo Estate 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003
Bryant Family 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
Colgin Cellars 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
Harlan Estate 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2009
Quilceda Creek 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 & 2010
Shafer Hillside Select 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2008
Total of Thirty Bottles!
To merely state that this is an Amazing Auction Offering would be an
understatement! You have to be on the mailing lists to even acquire these
232
For in the hand of the Lord there is a cup, and the wine is red.
Psalms 75:8
My land produces the life-giving medicine of Dionysus for all trouble.
Pindar: Paens
remarkable wines, and mailing lists stretch towards infinity.
And each of them has had a 99 or 100 Point Score, some of them, such as Colgin,
Harlan and Quilceda Creek, several of them. Quilceda Creek has even had
consecutive 100-Point Vintages. Araujo Estate has been recently acquired by
Bordeaux First Growth Château Latour! That should tell you something about the
quality of their wines.
Raise your paddles high to acquire the beginnings or continuation of your very
own Cult Cabernet Collection…
to organize thoughts about the remarkable food. Right now Guy Savoy
and Pierre Gagnaire were my choice for most creative, interesting,
satisfying and best service/attitude. Both four-hour adventures seemed
to fall together seamlessly. The escalation of the palate from beginning
to end was almost seamless. Lunch in Lynch Bages was a perfect
adventure. However the lunch and tasting in Gigondas gets best prize for
most unexpectedly fun. And, as noted before, Champagne Deutz was so
great! The rooms in all locations were individually exciting and
remarkable. But petite dejeuner on the hotel terraces in Lyon
and Pauillac were perfect moments for us. I have left out many things in this brief summary a conservatively
correct assessment would be, “VERY good!” If the bidding is enthusiastic, we will add wines for you to savor
and enjoy prior to your trip or when you return, a special wine
from EVERY region you visit, chosen by Archie McLaren
from his Avila cellar, which has a remarkable collection
of French wines that are ready to imbibe!
Donation of
Relais & Châteaux/Relais Gourmands
New York, New York
and
Wine Classic Patrons
Roger & Anne Forbes
Lake Tahoe, Nevada & San Francisco, California
and
Ed Fitts & Deborah Whitman
Our Annual Incredible Relais & Châteaux French Wine Country
Excursion to Paris, Bordeaux, the Rhone, Burgundy and Champagne
and for Two People
Our annual excursion to France not only maintains its exceedingly
upscale look this year, with three nights at the Relais & Châteaux
property Hotel Daniel,
beginning the excursion,
and two nights at the
Hotel Daniel completing
the excursion, a Total of
Five Nights in Paris, how
could you not be pleased
and pampered?
What happens in between
is virtually indescribable!
Winning Bidders of the
2013 Offering, Cole and
Jeannie Davis
of Tucson, Arizona were
effusive about the
experience and repeated
it, “We have experienced
this auction lot twice.
Each trip was different and spectacular - amazing culinary, wine and
cultural experience!
We would definitely do it again!”
Winning Bidders of the 2012 offering, Glen Mowrer and Bernice James
of Santa Barbara were amazed by the experience. To quote Glen,
“The trip was awesome, intimidating, exhausting, exhilarating,
informative, educational, beyond the pale, mind opening and some
more things that don’t come to mind at this moment. We are still trying
Hotel Daniel is located Right next to the Champs-Elysées, the most vibrant shopping area
in Paris, and the rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Feast your eyes upon the unique interiors
of this hotel with its
furniture sculpted out of
precious woods, fabulously
comfortable sofas, silks
from the Orient and
shimmering satins. And
when you are venturing
onto the Champs-Elysées,
just so you will not feel too
freneticized by the everkinetic street scene, Wine
Classic patrons Roger &
Ann Forbes will treat you
to dinner at renowned
Michelin
Three-Star
restaurant, Guy Savoy,
upon your arrival. Guy is a
long-time friend of the Wine Classic, and his consummate staff and he will make certain that
your culinary arrival is special.
While in Paris, the Central Coast Wine Classic will provide you with museum passes to all
of the famous museums in this wonderfully diverse and artistic city, such as the Louvre, the
Pompidou Museum, the
Rodin Museum and/or
the amazingly eclectic
Musee d’Orsay.
For your further
culinary and aesthetic
edification, and so that
you will receive a fully
visual panorama of Paris,
you will be the guest of the
Wine Classic for lunch at
Restaurant Jules Verne,
the superb restaurant
situated on the Eiffel
Tower high above the city of Paris. Viewing the city from such a vantage point is amazing,
and Jules Verne, one of the most popular restaurants in Paris. You must book well in advance
to secure seats.
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Jupiter, Florida & St. Helena, California
With Special Assistance from
Russell Hone & Becky Wasserman
Beaune, France
L o t
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Wine, to a gifted bard, is a mount that merrily races;
From watered wits, no good has ever grown.
Cratinus, circa 475 B.C.
There is no gladness without wine.
Babylonian Talmud: Pesachim
So that you will enjoy Paris to its culinary fullest, you will also be the guest of the Central Coast
Wine Classic at the one of the following pantheons to world-class cuisine, either at the beginning
or near the denouement of your excursion: the impeccable, creative and wildly imaginative
restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, due to his incredible world-wide popularity one of the most difficult
reservations in the city. These restaurants are ranked near the very top of all restaurants in Paris,
certainly so by Parisians. There is no doubt that your dinners at these two pantheons to the
French culinary arts will be unforgettable.
You can then take the train or drive to Pauillac, for two evenings at the excellent Relais &
Châteaux 17th century property Château Cordeillan-Bages, where you will be guests at the
Château for dinner at the very fine restaurant of the Château and Luncheon at Café Lavinal as
well. We can arrange tours and tastings at the renowned Château Margaux, Château LynchBages, Château La Lagune and perhaps Suduiraut, or at Château Cos d’Estournel or
Château Pichon-Lalande, where Archie McLaren has considerable connections.
Your next stop will be the right bank in Bordeaux and the lovely and incredibly well-located
Relais & Châteaux Hotel de Plaisance in the exquisite town of Saint-Emilion. You will stay for
one night as a guest of the Wine Classic in the Suite overlooking the town (if you plan in advance,
so that it is available) and dine in the hotel’s one-star
restaurant.
The following day, you may wish to visit a
Château or two referred by Carissa Chappellet, who
has amazing connections in the Pomerol/SaintEmilion area, and/or First Growth Château HautBrion or La Mission Haut-Brion, quite close to
the city of Bordeaux, where our friend, patron and
Steering Committee Co-Chair Vince DiPierro, who
Hotel de Plaisance
once owned the most comprehensive collection of
Haut-Brion in the world, will use his considerable connections to arrange a visit.
Your next stop will be the Rhone, where you will visit the renowned Château de Beaucastel,
Delas Freres or Paul Jaboulet, properties that produce some of the finest wines in the Rhone.
You will stay at the gorgeous Villa Florentine in Lyon, a splendid villa offering fabulous views
of Lyon and dine at one of the great Michelin-Starred Lyon restaurants, such as that of Villa
Florentine.
You will then travel to Burgundy, where visits at remarkable vineyard properties will be
orchestrated by Becky Wasserman and Russell Hone, renowned Burgundy experts whose
knowledge will give you a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the special Burgundian
terroir.
This offering will be as comprehensive a look at the renowned and complex Burgundy wine
region as you can imagine! And Burgundy is complex, most of the properties being small acreage
and very esoteric. Becky and Russell know them well, and they are friends of the vignerons and
wine experts such as Clive Coates, an essential component of visiting the most interesting
properties and tasting the most special wines.
And they are both gourmets, with Russell having the reputation of a first-rate chef. If the timing
works out, on one of the evenings, you may be able to dine at their wonderful and embracing
home in Bouilland and have a dinner paired with wines that will impress and delight you.
That which follows will give you some of Becky’s and Russell’s backgrounds.
Becky Wasserman, one of the world’s most respected Burgundy wine experts, who moved
from New York to Burgundy in 1968, founded her export company Le Serbet in Bouilland,
Burgundy in 1979, to select and export fine wines from small French estates whose reputations
are based on sound agriculture practices, small yields and aging potential.
She currently specializes in Burgundies but has worked with every French Appellation
Contrôlée. She has been the subject of a number of articles in the wine press, The New York
Times, International Herald Tribune and Connoisseur, and was featured in a book called Burgundy,
The Country, The Wines, The People, by Eunice Fried. She was recently decorated by the French
government for services rendered to Burgundy and is a Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricole.
Le Serbet currently exports wine to America, Canada, England, the Far East, Italy, Scandinavia
and Peru. Becky also organizes and runs private and corporate seminars at home or abroad,
advises on the creation of private cellars, and is putting together an investment program in
Burgundian vineyards.
Russell Hone, Becky Wasserman’s husband, is highly respected in Burgundy not only for his
exceptional – and objective – palate, but also for his cooking which has graced their table at
Bouilland since 1985, when Becky carried him away from London.
He collaborated with Richard Olney on the Time-Life series of cooking books, is half a Master
of Wine, refuses to use computers, and once posed for Vogue wearing a Thea Porter caftan.
He has been in the wine trade since 1968. On several occasions, he has sold large quantities of
Burgundian wines to renowned Burgundy expert Clive Coates.
A wine and culinary enthusiast can experience wonders on a spectacular path in Burgundy
following the Route des Grands Crus through Burgundy’s great wine growing region. You will
spend four nights at your choice of world-renowned Relais & Châteaux properties, such
as L’Esperance or Hostelerie de Levernois, two nights at two of them or four nights at one
property, including accommodations, breakfast and a memorable dinner for two on two of the
nights as guests of the Wine Classic and guests of Roger & Ann Forbes at two of the following
great restaurants in the area. The choice is yours; it may be the exquisite cuisine at Lameloise,
L’Esperance, La Cote St.-Jacques or Hostelerie de Levernois.
From Burgundy, your next stop will be the exhilarating Champagne District, where you can
visit the extraordinary houses Moet et Chandon, Champagne Taittinger and Champagne
Deutz, whose CEO is Wine Classic friend Fabrice Rosset. Your accommodations in Champagne
for two nights will be at the renowned Les Crayeres, an elegant turn-of-the-century residence
thought by many to be the finest hotel and restaurant combination in the world, nestled in a 17th
century park in Reims. Les Crayeres’s restaurant is not only considered among the finest in all
of France, but the Château itself has been rated the number one hotel in the world by Conde Nast
Traveler.
From Champagne, you will return to the impeccably located Hotel Daniel in Paris for the
culmination of your excursion.
Or you may take the entire trip in Reverse order from Paris to Champagne!
It is virtually breathtaking to read about this amazing excursion. We know that
the experience will be equally exhilarating for you, as it was for Glen and Bernice
and Cole and Jeannie!
Air transportation is not provided. Hotel stays do not include incidentals.
Dinners do not include gratuity or alcoholic beverages.
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Donation of
Doug Margerum
Margerum Wine Company
Los Olivos, California
L o t
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Dinner Hosted by Doug Margerum at Wine Cask Restaurant
In Santa Barbara for Ten People with Margerum Wine Company wines as
well as VERY RARE wines (Champagne, Bordeaux, Rhone Burgundy)
from Doug’s & Wine Cask’s Impressive Cellar
The Winning Bidders will enjoy an evening at
one of the finest restaurants in Santa Barbara, an
iconic name and location in that amazingly lovely
city, where winemaker and owner, Doug Margerum,
will not simply host you but will share the details of
his winery vision and the elements of creating
Rhone-Style Blends, for which Margerum is quite
renowned.
Doug is a very interesting and convivial person
and a terrific host. We know that you will enjoy his
companionship immensely.
He has been a renowned restaurateur, having founded, owned and operated the famous
Wine Cask restaurant in Santa Barbara since its inception and is a top notch culinary artist.
No thing more excellent or more valuable than wine was ever granted mankind by God.
Plato
After a relatively short hiatus/vacation, he is now an owner/operator of Wine Cask once
again, and the energy of the restaurant, vibrant to say the least, reflects his presence. All of
us who appreciate and admire Doug are pleased that his many interests once again include
manifesting the symbiotic relationship between fine wine and fine food and that is willing
to share his various wine and culinary talents and information with us.
This Winemaker/Restaurateur Lifestyle Auction lot offering is courtesy of our
dear friend Doug Margerum, one of the Wine Classic’s most ardent, gracious,
generous and long-term supporters. Doug has been a part of the wine Classic
Family for over a quarter of a century, having first joined us in 1985! He will
celebrate 30 years with us this July. In the meantime, we will celebrate the fact
that he is the founder and operator of such a special restaurant and wine property,
where you will experience the perfect combination and synthesis of fine cuisine
and fine wine.
This offering must be redeemed by July of 2015 at the mutual agreement of all
parties.
Donation of
Narsai & Venus David
Berkeley, California
and
Archie McLaren & Carissa Chappellet
L o t
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Our Annual Wine Classic Narsai David Dinner for Six to Eight Singularly
and Collectively Fortunate People, with Narsai & Venus David and
Archie McLaren & Carissa Chappellet, in a Private Dining Room at a
Renowned San Francisco Fine Dining Establishment (We have one
clearly in mind; we will let you know during the Auction at a
propitious moment!), Featuring Fine California Wines from Narsai’s
Cellar from Great Vintages Such as 1974 & 1978, Plus Extraordinary
Embellishments and World-Class Cuisine (We can guarantee it!)
Narsai David, the San
Francisco Bay Area’s Culinary
Icon and the Wine Classic’s
Culinary Consultant, is moist
certainly one of the most
interesting, engaging and
erudite food and wine mavens
in America! He has been a
wine collector, restaurateur
(The wine list at Narsai’s in
the Bay Area was described as
one of the “Ten Finest in the
World” by The New York
Times), vintner, chef and caterer. In fact with regard to his catering capabilities, Narsai’s
years as one of the Bay Area’s leading restaurateurs were overlaid with highly publicized
caterings representing some of the grandest large scale outdoor dining experiences anyone
has ever known. Rock impresario Bill Graham called on Narsai regularly to cater his
concerts as did the Napa Valley Wine Auction, once a Bacchanalian feast for twelve hundred
wine lovers on the rolling green lawns of the Meadowood Resort.
Now Narsai’s time is divided between travel and food segments, the management of
Narsai’s Specialty Food business, KCBS radio and Macy’s West. He has been a food columnist
for the San Francisco Chronicle and makes celebrity chef appearances at gatherings
throughout the United States and the world, including, we proudly state, the Central Coast
Wine Classic, where he always hosts the Wine Classic’s cooking demonstrations.
238
I like best the wine drunk at the cost to others.
Diogenes the Cynic
He has authored several culinary books, and his comprehensive community service
involvement manifests what a wonderful person he is. However, one only need be in the
presence of Narsai and his lovely and gracious wife Venus, to understand how extraordinary
an evening with them would be, particularly with such wines as his cellar contains.
For one such dinner, he presented an astonishingly rare 1875 Isais Hellman Angelica, for
example, as well as a brace of fantastic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from the legendary
1974 vintage. For another dinner, venerable Schramsberg, Stony Hill and Sterling wines were
showcased, with the coup-de-gras being a 1977 Hine Grande Champagne Cognac. Also in the
offing are Narsai’s newly produced wines from the Napa Valley, quite special in their own
right, and Archie and Carissa will add wines from their cellars. Perhaps a venerable vintage
or two of Chappellet will turn up!
It’s a good bet that all of the wines will be extraordinary, as undoubtedly will
the esoteric wine and cuisine comments, as well as the gregarious interaction in
general!
Gratuities are the responsibility of the winning bidders. The dinner must be
arranged when the private dining room at the chosen restaurant is available and
at the mutual convenience of all parties.
Donation of
Anne Thull
Carmel-by-the-Sea & San Francisco, California
L o t
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63
C
2014 Central oast Wine Classic
“People Working in the Vineyard,”
Two Small Figural 10-12" x 4-5" Pieces, Sculptures
by Anne Thull
This gracious and lovely artist is with us for the first time this year
with regard to her art; however, she has attended the Wine Classic a
nd bid at the Auction. It is a great pleasure to have her
exhibit and donate as an artist!
Anne explains, “I’m using the lost wax method in bronze to create the first two small
figural 10-12” x 4-5sculptures of “people working in the vineyard” that will be part of a 350
set of several modular pieces.
The pieces may be collected individually to create “Life on the Vineyard” scenes. Each
piece will be a numbered limited edition and in addition to figures will include grapevines,
houses, equipment and more.
The mini-sculpture scenes may be displayed interior or exterior as scenes around a
terrace on a display fence or gate, or around a room, along the center of a dining or tasting
table, and more. Optional art-glass inserts may be purchased to use with certain sculptures
to display flowers, food, candles, and more.
The Interior and exterior display options will be fun, timeless and unlimited!
Regarding this idea for mini-sculpture series:
… I just thought of what I would like to have around my home… and vineyard, restaurant…
if I had them… and I’ve always loved drawing people working in the fields or gardens
I have seen rare wax sculptures in museums and knew that was the old way of making a
sculpture before it was bronzed. Using wax you can achieve more texture and details versus
clay”.
Although as a young person she had an array of artistic interests that kept her occupied,
in 1984 Anne Thull began her full time art career and sold original paintings and
commissions. In 2003 she sold her greeting card trademark created as a high school student
to a major greeting card company, and in 1990 she started creating 3-D design work. In 2007
she became the artist in residence at San Francisco Design Center when she opened her first
design studio showroom, displaying her table sculptures and bronze sculptures! In 2010
Anne opened a second location in Carmel, and today, she includes the fine art of a few other
241
When there is no wine, love perishes, and everything else that is pleasant to man.
Euripides: The Bacchae
artists, as well as unique artistic products from certain companies around the world. Anne’s
works include one-of-a-kind and limited edition products for end-user clients and the trade.
The one-of-a-kind, limited edition sculptural piece that she has created for our
Auction is certain to create for the winning bidder a unique physical manifestation
of the creative imagination.
Welcome to the Wine Classic Family of Artists, Anne! It is a great pleasure to
have you join us, and we are grateful to you for your support as a bidder and as
a donor.
242
Man in no one respect resembles wine;
For man by age is made intolerable
But age improves all wine. –Alexis
Donation of
Far Niente Winery
Beth Nickel
L o t
64
Dinner for Eight at Far Niente Winery in Oakville, Napa Valley
Enjoy a Seasonal, Wine Paired Dinner for Eight People
at the Stunningly Beautiful and Historic Far Niente Winery
hosted by Proprietress Beth Nickel
Joining in the edifying revelry will be Dinner Co-Host and
Central Coast Wine Classic Chairman, Archie McLaren.
The Dinner will be preceded by a Tour that includes the
wonderfully eclectic Far Niente Automobile Collection, containing such
rarities as a Ferrari or two and a Venerable Bentley Continental Coupe,
and you will be treated to a tour of the Remarkable Caves as well.
The theme from Far Niente that will manifest is as follows:
30 Years since Archie McLaren Founded Central Coast Wine Classic
30 Years of Friendship between the Nickel Family and Archie
30 Years of Far Niente Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1982-2012);
You will enjoy well chosen vintages from each decade!
30 is the magic number in 2014 Commemorating the Founding of
Central Coast Wine Classic by Archie, a long lasting friendship with the
Nickel family and 30 years of Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon with the
release of the highly
anticipated 2012
vintage. (1982-2012)
Let the revelry beginstart the bidding! You
and your guests will
be treated to a magical
evening at Far Niente,
home to legendary
Chardonnay, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Dolce
hosted by Proprietress
Beth Nickel. Your
evening will begin with reception and hors d’oeuvres followed by a tour
through the caves with a stopover in the Far Niente Library. Winding
your way to the Great Hall for dinner,
winery Executive Chef Trevor Eliason will pamper your senses
with a four course seasonally prepared dinner matched
with wines selected by Beth from the Far Niente cellars.
This memorable evening promises to delight while surrounded
by great friends, great wine and Far Niente hospitality.
Upon release in early 2015, each couple will receive
a Magnum of the highly anticipated 2012 vintage of Far Niente
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Oakville
culminating 30 years of making wines of uncompromised quality.
The relationship between the Central Coast Wine Classic and Far Niente is profound.
Archie considered the late Gil Nickel to be among the most gracious generous individuals
245
Ah, the sweet, sweet smell of old wine, that meets my nostrils. It draws me into the open,
dark as it is. I love it so. Wherever is it? Ah, it’s near, near.
Plautus
imaginable, and his widow, Beth, is equally so. Gil and Beth were Wine Classic Honorees in
1986, and until just recently when Jim Clendenen and even more recently when Tim
Mondavi were honored, were the only two-time honorees.
Many years ago, Larry Shupnick assisted Gil and Far Niente in becoming visible to the
wine world by purchasing the Far Niente lot at the Napa Valley Wine Auction for a price
unheard of at that time. The purchase of the Far Niente Chardonnay “Piano Case” was
reported around the globe, and Larry opened the Imperial from the case at a special dinner
for Gil at the San Luis Bay Inn.
Far Niente was founded in 1885 by John Benson, a forty-niner of the California gold rush
and uncle of the famous American impressionist painter, Winslow Homer. Benson hired
architect Hamden McIntyre, creator of the former Christian Brothers winery – now the
Culinary Institute of America at Greystone – to design the building. Constructed against a
hillside in western Oakville, Far Niente functioned as a gravity flow winery, gently moving
the grapes through each stage of production.
Gil restored the building painstakingly, with incredible attention to every detail, so that
the venerable quality of the historic building was intact, and he added embellishments that
can only be described as world-class, including the dining room where you will have your
dinner overlooking the vineyards.
The landscaping at Far Niente is the most remarkable in the Valley; everywhere you look
you will see attention paid to the beauty of nature, and the nature you will see is completely
symbiotic with the winery. The sight of all of this lush and totally compatible landscaping
is absolutely unforgettable!
Today the wines that are produced at the Napa Valley’s most gorgeous winery facility are
also world-class, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Dolce, the Napa Valley’s
Château d’Yquem.
Dinners with Beth Nickel are indescribable, for the venue, the view, the wines,
the food and the companionship. Beth and Archie are very excited about sharing
this experience with you. This will be a truly transcendent evening with one of
wine’s most gracious ladies in one of the world’s most gorgeous wineries.
246
When a man drinks wine at dinner he begins to be better pleased with himself.
Plato
Donation of
Serry Osmena
Blue Chair Media Group
With Embellishments by
José Luis Nazar
L o t
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Dinner for Two at The French Laundry in Yountville, California,
Held in Such High Esteem That It Is Considered by Many Gourmets
and Critics to Be the Finest Dining Experience in America,
Including the remarkable Purlieu Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
That You Will Have Experienced in the Napa Valley
Cabernet Symposium Provided by the Winery
AND French Laundry Is Also One of THE Most Difficult Reservations
to Obtain. Archie McLaren and Chef/Owner Thomas Keller Are Friends,
and Serry or Archie Can Make the Reservation for You.
Embellishment by José Will Be Forthcoming!!!
The French Laundry,
as virtually everyone into
the culinary arts knows,
is a French themed restaurant located in Yountville, California, in the
Napa Valley. The chef
and owner of the French
Laundry is Thomas
Keller. The restaurant
building dates from 1900,
and is in the National Register of Historic Places.
The French Laundry is
frequently honored by
inclusion in the annual Restauran Magazine list of the Top 50 Restaurants of the World
(having been named “Best Restaurant in the World” in 2003 and 2004)! Since 2006, it has
been awarded three stars in the Michelin Guide to San Francisco. It received a favorable
review in The New York Times and was called “the best restaurant in the world, period” by
Anthony Bourdain.
The building was built as a saloon in the 1900s by a Scottish stonesman for Pierre
Guillaume. When a law was passed in 1906 prohibiting sale of alcohol within a mile of a
veteran’s home, Guillaume sold the building.
In the 1920s, the building was owned by John Lande who used it as a French steam
laundry, which is the origin of the restaurant’s name.
In 1978, the mayor of Yountville renovated the building into a restaurant. Don and Sally
Schmitt owned the French Laundry for much of the 1980s, and the early 1990s. In 1994,
Thomas bought the restaurant.
Every day, the French Laundry serves two different nine-course tasting menus, none of
which uses the same ingredient more than once. The food is mainly French with
contemporary American influences, giving rise to such unique specialties as Cuisse de
grenouilles sur un bâton (frog’s legs on a stick).
Awards and accolades
• 2012, Culinary Hall of Fame Induction]
249
Without food and wine, love starves.
Terentius: Eunuchus
• 2006– Michelin Guide, Three Stars
• 2005–2008, “Best Restaurant in the Americas,” Restaurant magazine Top 50
• 2004–2006, 2008 Top 40 Restaurants in the US Andre Gayot Guide
• 2003–2004 “Best Restaurant in the World,” Restaurant magazine Top 50
• 2003, “Outstanding Service Award,” James Beard Foundation
• 2002, Awarded the honor of World Master of Culinary Arts 2001, a 1st annual award given
by Wedgwood
• 2001, Outstanding Wine Service Award, James Beard Foundation
• 2000, “Favorite Restaurant in the U.S.,” Food & Wine Restaurant Experts’ Poll
• 2000, Inducted into “Who’s Who in Food & Beverage,” James Beard Foundation
• 1999–2009 Five-Star Award, Mobil Travel Guide
Serry is a gourmet, and she knows extraordinary cuisine, and she is a frequent
visitor to the Napa Valley, where she wines and dines as well as it can possibly be
accomplished. You can count on this dinner as being a transcendent culinary
experience!
Donation of
Archie McLaren
&
The Central Coast Wine Classic
Avila Beach, California
L o t
66
One Unopened Wooden Case of 2010 Château Margaux,
Margaux Direct from the Estate to California, Arrival in August of 2014
We must say that it is extremely rare for the Wine Critics of renown
to agree on a wine. They know how to nit in their pickings, so to speak.
However, see that which follows from four of the most famous.
The 2010 is a brilliant
Château Margaux, as
one might expect in this
vintage. The percentage
of Cabernet Sauvignon
in the final blend hit
90%, the balance Merlot
and Cabernet Franc,
and only 38% of the
crop made it into the
Château Margaux. Paul
Pontallier, the administrator, told me that this
wine has even higher
levels of tannin than
some other extraordinary vintages such as 2005, 2000, 1996, etc. Deep purple, pure and
intense, with floral notes, tremendous opulence and palate presence, this is a wine of considerable nobility. With loads of blueberry, black currant and violet-infused fruit and a heady
alcohol level above 13.5% (although that looks modest compared to several other first
growths, particularly Château Latour and Château Haut-Brion), its beautifully sweet texture,
ripe tannin, abundant depth and profound finish all make for another near-perfect wine that
should age effortlessly for 30-40 years.
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (205), March 2013
Score: 99
A phenomenal nose of roses, violets, and other flowers. Subtle yet rich raspberries and
currants. It is 90 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. The is a curious wine, almost ethereal. It is
all in the front of the palate with ultra-fine tannins. It is full and very, very rich but it is
forever balanced and in harmony What a wine. It is a pinpointed wine. So cerebral. It sends
shivers down my spine. Incredible!
Score: 100 James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, March 2011
250
Wine new and old I drink,
of illness new and old I’m cured.
Varro: De Lingua Latina
Amazingly dark purple. Very, very strongly Cabernet Sauvignon (90% of the blend - only
2006 matched it) with some light vegetation at first which opened out and mellowed to
something utterly seductive in the glass. Dry and intense. Very rich on the front and
amazingly supple - it smells as though it may be going to be a bit of brute but on the palate
it is still so intense and polished initially but then it is clear that there are masses and masses
of tannins. There is noble, fine, perfectly confident, minerally fruit that opens out on the
palate. It is thinkable to drink this already! Paul Pontallier: ‘We decanted the samples but it
still grows in the glass.’ 13.5%
Score: 19/20 Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, April 2011
Superb colour, a lovely concentration of polished flavours that stay on the palate forever,
unbelievable freshness and density, a truly great wine. Drink 2020-50.
Score: 20/20
The grand vin, Château Margaux Margaux 2010, is a major step up. The final blend is
90 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, with only 7 percent Merlot and 1.5 percent each of Cabernet
Franc and Petit Verdot. This is only the second vintage this decade to contain as much as 90
percent Cabernet, along with the 2006. The wine is superfocused and racy, with torrents of
red cherry, raspberry and red plum fruit. Again, despite the obvious weight, it has terrific
mouthfeel as it glides effortlessly across the palate, while fantastic perfume develops on the
finish (96-99). James Molesworthy, Wine Spectator, from Barrel, March 23, 2011
The 2010 Château Margaux may well be the “Wine of the Vintage,”
and what a vintage it is!
Continues Jancis Robinson, virtually always one of the more “critical” wine critics, “The
2010 vintage IS an exceptional year for red, and harks back to such great years as 2000, 1990,
1986, 1961, and may be even 1929, but the wines are made with much more precision in the
vineyard and cellar giving them a more polished character than historic vintages. The young
wines have such beauty in a toned and muscular way. The reds’ tannins are layered and
caressing. Their acidities are strong and creamy. These are wines built for aging, but they
also impress you when they are young. I really enjoyed tasting almost 700 samples from
barrel in late March in Bordeaux.
The top dry whites of Bordeaux are absolutely mind-blowing. I can’t think of a better
vintage in my 28 years of tasting barrel samples in Bordeaux. They are so dense and intense
in fruit, yet bright, aromatic and fresh, that they come across incredibly balance and enticing
when you taste them. Don’t miss out on buying some.
A lot of factors contributed to the greatness of 2010 for Bordeaux. The wet winter helped
the vines continue growing during the dry summer, which was one of the driest in memory.
The cool nights helped maintain the acidities and perfumes in the grapes and, therefore,
gave this quality to the wines. The grape yields were slightly lower and the berries slightly
smaller. And grapes were left a little longer on the vine than past top years due to the less
extreme weather conditions in August and September. It all added up to gorgeous ripe grapes
with bright acidities, ripe fruit and creamy tannins.
My two favorite wine districts in 2010 were St. Emilion and Margaux. I think that they both
did better in 2010 than 2009 overall. The Cabernet Franc was exceptional in St. Emilion and
the Cabernet Sauvignon fabulous in Margaux.
How much more complimentary can critics’ comments be? Do not miss this rare
opportunity to own the very best from an incredible vintage! Archie McLaren will
arrange shipping or even hand-carrying this phenomenal wine to you.
251
Bacchus drowns within the bowl
Troubles that corrode the soul.
Horace
Donation of
Edward Walton Wilcox
Artist
L o t
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“Hearst Castle,”
a 30" x 40" Oil on Panel,
by Edward Walton Wilcox,
This is Edward’s third presentation for the Central Coast Wine Classic,
and he has quickly become a very visible aspect of the amazing
creativity manifested by our Commemorative Artists.
“In regards to “Hearst Castle” I am fascinated by this
ambitious example of when inspiration and the resources
to accomplish a triumph of the will are brought together to manifest
nothing short of a fantasy made real.” Edward Walton Wilcox
Originally from West Palm Beach, Florida, Wilcox
earned a BFA in Painting with high honors from the
University of Florida, where he also received the
Presidential Award for Excellence in the Arts.
The work of Edward Walton Wilcox exposes his darkest
dreaming; hand-carved Gothic altarpieces soar twelve feet
high while young maidens in nightgowns are captured in
landscapes of blazing windmills. Hauntingly beautiful, the
work is overt in its reference to Gothic convention, in both
content and physical facture.
Wilcox’s use of primitive materials, such as wood, glass,
rabbit skin glues, Italian pitch and gesso lend an old world
authenticity to the crockets, tracery and other conventions of gothic carpentry that
caricaturize the multi-disciplined art of Edward Walton Wilcox. Wilcox’s work has been
described by the LA Times as “Southern California Noir,” while Art and Living states,
“Edward Walton Wilcox’s work exhibits an eerie quality that is hard to keep your eyes off of…
the suggestions he makes are often unsettling. His images are dark, yes, but it’s a darkness
that Wilcox suggests should be more closely examined.”
Wilcox explains, “I am fascinated with the fine line between beauty and repulsion as I
continue to navigate the ‘dangerous reaches of the unconscious’ whereby a romance
troubled by nightmares’ may be further explored.”
“At this point in time I see around me the evolution of culture dictated by media as it
washes the hands of commerce and sets the stage for a new morality. Once long held
conventions, paradigms of thought, tradition, and cultural value now give way to a new
world obsessed with personal ambition and material gain.”
“With the romance of being now draining away from daily life I draw on memories past
in order to cope with the present. Caught in a cycle of hope against despair I struggle to
make peace with what is happening around me. Changes in life’s stage once so drawn and
gradual as to not be witnessed in a single lifetime now pass in a decade. We are now racing
away from what once was, bringing with it a blending of nostalgia and decline. The speed
of progress now draws a vacuum and pulls me in unwillingly....”
“Romanticism is where my work finds its voice in both paintings and sculpture. The
genre’s inherent qualities and conventions are a suitable vehicle of expression for the
cultural criticisms and social climate in which our generation finds itself; a paradigm match,
which includes such concepts as excess, transgression, diffusion and ambivalence
concerning both rationality and morality.”
252
What tongue hangs fire when quickened by the bowl?
What wretch so poor but wine expands his soul?
Horace: Epistles
We know that you will find this remarkable art work to be one that allows you
to explore your inner emotions in a way that is deeply mesmerizing in all the
positive contexts of the term. Thank you so very much Edward for sharing this
vision with us. It is a great pleasure to welcome you back among the Wine Classic’s
Commemorative Artist Family.
Donation of
Domaine Serene
Dayton, Oregon
L o t
68
A Two-Night Stay for Two Couples at Domaine Serene’s Hill House
Retreat, an Extraordinary Location Producing Fantastic Wines
As you follow Domaine Sere’s History, you will gain
an understanding of how special this property and its Founders are.
1989
The Dream Begins
A passion, vision and commitment to
produce the world’s best Pinot Noir
leads Ken and Grace Evenstad to
Oregon. They purchase 42 recently
logged acres atop the renowned Dundee
Hills in Yamhill County, Willamette
Valley, where Oregon Pinot Noir began
and where its heart remains.
Domaine Serene purchases the first
80 acres of an eventual 180 acre hilltop
property, one mile north of the Evenstad
Estate. The property is named Winery Hill and is the future site of their new winery.
Renowned wine critic Robert M.
Parker, Jr names Domaine Serene an
‘Outstanding’ producer of Oregon Pinot
Noir in his book, Parker’s Wine Buyer’s
Guide.
1990
Our First Wine
Domaine Serene (named after Ken &
Grace’s daughter, Serene Evenstad
Warren) produces their first wine
2003
Wine & Spirits Magazine Winner
Domaine Serene is named ‘Estate
Winery of the Year’ by Wines & Spirits Magazine.
2004
Wine Community Shocked by Blind
Tasting
Domaine Serene shocks the wine
community by besting the most
prestigious winery in the world,
Domaine de la Romanee Conti, in a
blind tasting of 3 wines from each
producer in vintages 1998, 1999, and
2000. Domaine Serene places first,
second and third with the 1998 and 1999
vintages, and first and second with the
2000 vintage.
255
This festive day calls for wine for love-making and songwhat fitter tribute to all-powerful gods.
Ovid: The Amores
2006
Evenstad Reserve® named Oregon’s #1 Pinot Noir
The Evenstad Reserve® Pinot Noir, a sommelier favorite, is named the #1 Oregon wine in
Wine & Spirits Restaurant Poll.
2008
Evenstad Reserve® accolades
The Evenstad Reserve® is named one of the top 100 wines of the year by Wine Spectator,
and Oregon’s #1 Pinot Noir by the Wall Street Journal.
2011
97 Points from Wine Spectator
The 2008 ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir receives 97 points by Wine Spectator, the highest
rating ever awarded to an Oregon Pinot Noir.
2013
Evenstad Reserve named #3 wine of the year by Wine Spectator
The 2010 Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir received 95 points and is ranked the #3 wine in the
world on Wine Spectator’s top wines of the year list.
2014
Our Legacy Continues
Domaine Serene has grown, prospered, and in the process raised the bar for Oregon wines
and put the region in the forefront of the media and the entire wine world. Over seventy-five
wines have rated 90 points or higher in the Wine Spectator since that first vintage so many
years ago. It is this commitment to quality that sparked renowned wine writer Anthony Dias
Blue to declare Domaine Serene the ‘Château Lafite of Oregon.’
Absolutely extraordinary place and wines! Now see what Ken and Grace
Evenstad are offering you and where…
Who, after wine, talks of war’s hardships or of poverty
Horace: Odes
Donation of
Winesong!
Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation
Fort Bragg, California
L o t
69
Winesong! For two people!
th
Winesong!, the 30 Annual This Year, Just the Same Venerability
as the Central Coast Wine Classic, Will Again, as Always,
Be Held in the Exquisite Botanical Gardens
in Fort Bragg, California, Just North of Mendocino.
This magical event is one of our most long-term relationships,
with recently retired Director Norm Roby being one of
our finest friends, in fact a Wine Classic Family Member,
along with Wine Classic Major Supporters and 2013 Winesong!
Honorees, Joe and Pat Harbison and Winesong!
Culinary Consultant and Supporter Narsai David.
This year’s Winesong! Will take place on
Friday, September 5 & Saturday, September 6.
Winesong! Is the primary fund-raiser for the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation.
The Winesong! Grand Tasting & Auction has a loyal following of generous wine lovers who
travel from 25 states to enjoy the casual,
feel-good weekend along the Mendocino
Coast. For the vast majority of visitors,
Winesong! is their annual wine tasting
and charitable auction and provides them
a great international showcase of wines.
The Winesong! auction is known for its
array of fine wines, large format art
bottles, weekend getaways, special events
and overnights at wineries. Vertical and
horizontal collections are always in
demand. Last year there was even a Three-Liter Bottle of 1996 Château d’Yquem!
Wine Classic Family Member, Narsai David from KCBS Radio in San Francisco, has many
times served as Master of Ceremonies. Auctioneers, the renowned David Reynolds, and
Dawn Marie Kotsonis normally effusively preside over the Live Auction. Honorees have
included Wine Classic supporters Joseph & Pat Harbison and Monty & Sara Preiser.
You will receive:
Lodging for Two Nights on the beautiful Mendocino Coast
Admission to the Pinot Noir Barrel Tasting
Admission to the Friday evening VIP grazing at a beautiful and
beautifully located Mendocino Home overlooking the ocean
Admission with Reserved Seating to the Saturday Auction
Admission to the Private VIP Winesong! Family Celebration that takes
place on the Beach after the Auction!
Support and celebrate one of the most marvelous events in one of the
most beautiful places in the world for its Thirtieth Annual Celebration!
256
257
Wine over dinner was rather meant to promote fun and games.
Ovid: The Art of Love
No poems can live long or please that are written by water drinkers.
Horace: Odes
Donation of
Donation of
Windward Vineyard
Marc Goldberg & Maggie D’Ambrosia
Paso Robles, California
L o t
70
Two Double Magnums, One Jeroboam & Six Magnums of
Windward Vineyard Monopole “Deuxieme Decade,”
the Winery’s Commemorative XX Vintage Pinot Noir, as well as
Dinner for Ten People at Windward Vineyard with Owner/Vintner
Marc Goldberg, Featuring “Lobster Fra Diavola”
Paired with Venerable Vintages of Pinot Noir from Marc’s Cellar
Marc Goldberg & Maggie D’Ambrosia, who were 2008 Central Coast Wine
Classic Honorees, are an integral part of our family. They have
supported us in so many ways over the years, and they have given great
credibility to the Templeton Gap as a premier terroir for fine Pinot Noir,
a substantive amount of which is a part of this offering.
They are also gourmets, as evidenced by the fact that Marc was the Bailli of the Central
Coast Chaine des Rotisseurs and is a Founder of the extremely popular, annual Pinot &
Paella Cook-off in Paso
Robles, and their interest in
fine cuisine is also manifest
in this offering.
Add the fact that they are
extraordinarily interactive
and gracious people, and
you will know how special
the fulfillment of this
Auction lot will be.
Windward Vineyard was
planted in 1990, and its first
crush in 1993 yielded a
wine that consistently won
awards for its velvet texture
and layered complexity.
The vineyard is in the same
geographical area as the old Hoffman Mountain Ranch, where Dr. Stanley Hoffman and
world-renowned wine consultant, Andre Tchelistcheff, planted Pinot Noir in the 1970s, and
which firmly placed the Paso Robles Westside area on the map as a superlative Pinot Noir
producing location.
Reflective of the Westside, the soil is rocky limestone and is on a well-drained slope. The
Pinot Noir clones that are planted are either benchgrafted budwood or cuttings. They are
representative of the Burgundian clones that produce grand cru wines in France. They
include the Hoffman Mountain Ranch clone, which was originally from Clos de Beze in
Burgundy, Adelsheimer Clone 1 from Oregon, Bien Nacido Clone 13 from the Santa Maria
Valley in Santa Barbara County, and the Sanford & Benedict Clone from the western Santa
Ynez Valley, originally from Vosne-Romanee.
Marc and Maggie have always been gracious and generous supporters of the
Central Coast Wine Classic, with beautiful donations to the Live Auction year after
year, this year being no exception as you will know from what will be an
unforgettable evening of sharing fine wine, cuisine and companionship that
celebrates the XXX Annual Central Coast Wine Classic and the XX Vintage of
Windward Vineyard Pinot Noir.
258
The Ahwahnee Hotel
Yosemite Valley, California
L o t
71
Yes, Sometimes We Save One of the best for Last, as WE Want
to keep You Here for as Long as Possible, and We Know You Want
This Special Offering from a Stunning Event in a Stunningly Beautiful
Environment, in Fact One of the Most Beautiful on Earth…
Two-Night Packages For Two Couples, One Per Couple,
to the Annual Ahwahnee Bracebridge Dinner, Including
Two Rooms for Two Nights, Four Admissions to the Event
with VIP Seating & Two Formal Portraits
Open since 1927, The Ahwahnee in the heart of Yosemite Valley is one of America’s most
distinctive hotels, unparalleled in magnificence and charm. The hotel is a great American
castle, massive and warm with huge
cathedral ceilings, enormous stone
hearths and richly colored Native
American and Oriental rugs. The hotel
was designated a National Historic
Landmark on June 2, 1987.
The Bracebridge Dinner has become an
Ahwahnee Christmas tradition. This
grand Christmas event has been held
annually since 1927. During this time in
December the Ahwahnee is transformed
into a 17th century English manor for a
feast of food, song and mirth. The
inspiration for this ceremony was
Washington Irving’s Sketch Book that
described Squire Bracebridge and English
Christmas traditions of that period.
A spectacular Christmas pageant takes
place in The Ahwahnee’s grand Dining
Room, which becomes the majestic Hall of American author Washington Irving’s legendary
259
It has become quite a common proverb that in wine there is truth.
Pliny the Elder: Natural History
You get the best vintage from well-cared-for grapes.
Ovid: The Art of Love
“Squire Bracebridge” as tables glow with candlelight, and the room is filled with the warmth
and spirit of this special time of year. The program abounds with a profusion of food and the
ringing sound of voices. The cathedral windows look out onto Yosemite Valley, and the spirit
of all things beautiful cannot help but be felt, as guests become enveloped in the joy of the
season.
The event consists of a
four-hour pageant of classic
carols in an elegant and
artistic fashion. You will
enjoy Renaissance rituals,
Middle Age music and
sumptuous food. Over 100
players recreate the roles
of the Squire and his
family, their servants, the
Lord of Misrule, minstrels
and other performers.
Decked with magnificent
wreaths, an elaborate
Squire’s table, large banners
and traditional Yuletide decorations, the Ahwahnee Dining Room transforms into the Great
Hall and is the stage for the festivities.
The
Ahwahnee
Dining Room serves as
the Great Hall and stage
for the festivities and is
decked with magnificent
wreaths, an elaborate
Squire’s table, large
banners and traditional
Yuletide decorations.
The centerpiece of this
revered event is a sevencourse banquet of rich
and wondrous dishes
prepared by The
Ahwahnee’s world-class
culinary staff.
2014 Bracebridge Dinner Dates
Guests will receive reserved seating at the concert.
Dec. 13 (Sat.) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 14 (Sun.) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 15 (Mon) Concert
Dec. 16 (Tues) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 17 (Wed) Concert
Dec. 18 (Thurs) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 19 (Fri) Concert
Dec. 20 (Sat) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 21 (Sun) Concert
Dec. 22 (Mon) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 23 (Tues) Concert
Dec. 24 (Wed) Bracebridge Dinner
Dec. 25 (Thurs) Bracebridge Dinner
Dinner seating begins at 6pm, and the performance starts at 6:30pm.
Perhaps the most stunningly beautiful natural environment on earth is Yosemite Valley.
Its history is so interesting that we will share some of it with you.
Yosemite National Park embraces almost 1,200 square miles of scenic wild lands set aside
in 1890 to preserve a portion of the central Sierra Nevada that stretches along California’s
eastern flank. The park ranges from 2,000 feet above sea level to more than 13,000 feet and
has these major attractions; alpine wilderness, three groves of Giant Sequoias and the
glacially carved Yosemite Valley with impressive waterfalls, cliffs and unusual rock
formations.
The story of Yosemite began about 500 million years ago when the Sierra Nevada region
lay beneath an ancient sea. Thick layers of sediment lay on the sea bed, which eventually
was folded and twisted and thrust above sea level. Simultaneously molten rock welled up
from deep within the earth and cooled slowly beneath the layers of sediment to form granite.
Erosion gradually wore away almost all the overlying rock and exposed the granite. And
even as uplifts continued to form the Sierra, water and then glaciers went to work to carve
the face of Yosemite. Weathering and erosion continue to shape it today.
Yosemite National Park was established on October 1, 1890, and is the Nation’s third oldest
national park. The park was established for the purpose of preservation of the resources that
contribute to its uniqueness and attractiveness. Congress recognized the importance of
preserving this great park for future public enjoyment when it established Yosemite National
Park. Yosemite National Park is a showcase of spectacular geological features, including the
greatest concentration of granite domes in the world and the largest exposed granite
monolith in the world.
The first application of a park concept originated in Yosemite with the grant of 1864
(Federal land given to California for preservation) signed by Abraham Lincoln and since that
time the park has played an important role in pioneering park management concepts.
Millions of years ago, California’s Sierra Nevada was formed by a gradual series of earth
upheavals. As the mountains rose, the land tilted and the westward flowing Merced River
accelerated, carving deep, v-shaped river canyons. Later, massive glaciers flowed down the
canyons. Colder temperature slowed melting and eventually glaciers formed and began to
carve away at the v-shaped canyons, transforming them into u-shaped valleys. Tributary
streams did not carve their canyons as deep as Merced Canyon. Glaciers sheared off these
canyons leaving them as “hanging valleys.” Tributary creeks, which had once joined the
main stream at the same elevation, now plummeted off of shear cliffs, giving birth to the
park’s famed waterfalls. Eventually, sediment washed down out of the high country, filled
in Lake Yosemite to form the present valley floor.
The area’s first residents were Native Americans who inhabited the region perhaps as long
ago as 7,000 to 10,000 years. Various tribes lived in the area over the years, the most recent
of which was a Miwok tribe that called Yosemite Valley Ahwahnee which is believed to
mean, “place of the gaping mouth.” They referred to themselves as the Ahwahneechee.
By 1855, the first party of tourists arrived and nine years later, encouraged by a group of
influential Californians, Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant which set aside
Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias as a state supervised public
reserve.
In 1890, Robert Underwood Johnson, editor of Century Magazine, and John Muir, were
concerned that the high country and watershed for Yosemite Valley were being destroyed by
grazing and timber interests. The two launched a successful campaign to persuade Congress
to set aside the high country as a national park.
In 1906, Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove were returned to federal jurisdiction. In
1932, the Wawona Basin, including the Wawona Hotel and golf course were purchased and
included in the National Park.
This thoroughly unique and magical dinner will be an exhilarating musical,
artistic and culinary event that you will never forget!
260
261
And We Will Never Forget You! Thank you so very, very much for your gracious,
enthusiastic and generous bidding on our 2014 Thirtieth Annual Central Coast
Wine Classic Rare & Fine Wine & Lifestyle Auction offerings! We look forward to
sharing the Thirty-First Annual Central Coast Wine Classic with you. Until then
and continuing, cheers and bon appétit!
Index of Donors
Index of Donors
A
Acker Merrall & Condit............................83
Aff, Rebecca & Burt Williams................ 189
The Ahwahnee Hotel............................. 259
Conway, Gary...........................................99
Crystal Cruises....................................... 218
Culinary Institute of America............... 208
Culinary Tours of France....................... 141
D
AMAN Resorts PTE, Ltd........................ 128
H
Micato Safaris......................................... 186
Mondavi, Tim..........................................119
Haas, Jason...............................................89
Myers, Kathleen Heitz........................... 159
Haas, Robert.............................................89
The Myriad Restaurant Group................. 81
Harbison, Joseph & Patricia.................. 231
N
Harlan Estate...........................................116
Hartley, Gray & Frank Ostini................ 199
Nazar, José Luis...................................... 249
David, Narsai & Venus........................... 238
Hartley-Ostini/
Hitching Post Wines................... 199, 202
Nickel, Beth............................................ 245
B
Davies, Hugh............................................75
Heitz Cellar..................................... 159, 161
de Boutray, Bertrand.............................. 141
Niven Family Wine Estates.................... 230
Heitz Meyers, Kathleen......................... 161
Baldwin, Justin....................................... 173
Delmonico Steakhouse.......................... 170
Nobu.......................................................... 81
Herb Lamb Vineyards.............................116
Ballentine, Mia B.
& D. Scott Farmer............................... 232
Diamond Creek Vineyards.....................116
NOLA...................................................... 124
DiPierro, Vince & Renee....................... 103
Hone, Russell
& Becky Wasserman........................... 234
Domaine Serene..................................... 255
Hulburd, Noreen Martin........................ 108
AMA Waterways..................................... 144
Artiste Winery........................................ 145
Au Bon Climat................................ 195, 202
Batard........................................................ 81
Belmond Hotels...................................... 218
Big Sur Food and Wine Festival............. 191
Blue Chair Media Group........................ 249
D’Ambrosia, Maggie
& Marc Goldberg................................ 258
Index of Donors
Dunn, Randy & Lori.............................. 147
Dunn Vineyards..................................... 147
E
Boothe, Tom & Kristen........................... 209
Nieporent, Drew and Tracy..................... 81
O
Opus One................................................ 184
I
Osmena, Serry........................................ 249
Ostini, Frank........................................... 202
The International Wine & Food Society,
Marin County Chapter....................... 224
Ostini, Frank & Gray Hartley................ 199
P
Eberle Winery........................................ 130
K
Kapon, John..............................................83
Padis, Steve & Judy................................ 231
Brennan, Lally........................................ 124
The Emeril Lagasse Foundation............ 170
Karst, Kristin........................................... 144
Pinto, Anna............................................. 186
Brown, Blake
& Roelanda Genn............................... 189
Emeril’s................................................... 124
Krahl, Karen........................................... 213
Pisoni, Gary & Family............................ 179
Brown, James-Paul......................... 144, 145
Brand Napa Valley...................................116
Eberle, Gary & Marcy............................ 130
Breitstein, David & Judy................ 165, 208
Emeril’s Delmonico................................ 124
L
F
Lagasse, Emeril.............................. 124, 170
Fairchild, Barbara................................... 105
Licsko, Adam.......................................... 174
C
Farmer, D. Scott & Mia B. Ballentine.... 232
Licsko, Joanne..........................................93
Far Niente Winery.................................. 245
Lindquist, Bob........................................ 104
Carmody-McKnight..................................99
Fitts, Ed & Deborah Whitman............... 234
The Central Coast
Wine Classic...........................81, 144, 250
Forbes, Roger & Anne............................ 234
The Los Angeles
Food & Wine Festival......................... 170
Buellton Hitching Post........................... 202
Burridge, Robert..................................... 121
Chappellet, Blakesley............................. 169
Chappellet, Carissa..........................105, 161
Chappellet, Carissa
& Archie McLaren.................78, 231, 238
Chappellet, Cyril.................................... 169
Chappellet Winery..................116, 161, 169
Clendenen, Jim.............................. 195, 202
Pisoni Vineyards..................................... 179
PRESS Restaurant................................... 169
Pride Mountain Vineyards......................116
Q
R
Qupé Wine Cellars................................. 104
Foxen Vineyard & Winery..................... 136
M
Relais & Châteaux/
Relais Gourmands............................... 234
MacNeil, Karen....................................... 208
Rice, Bion................................................ 145
Fry’s Electronics..................................... 229
Margerum, Doug.................................... 237
Rikel, Charles & Beverly........................ 206
Margerum Wine Company.................... 237
Robertson, Brian and Judy.................... 218
Martin Resorts........................................ 108
Robertson International Travel.............. 218
McCarver, Tim........................................ 180
Rose. Rabbit. Lie..................................... 170
McLaren, Archie.....................105, 180, 208,
209, 216, 232, 250
Rowland-Jones, Toby.............................. 191
McLaren, Archie
& Carissa Chappellet.............78, 231, 238
Ruggles, Joanne Beaule..........................111
Four Seasons Hong Kong....................... 218
G
Genn, Roelanda & Blake Brown............ 189
Gnos, Colleen......................................... 133
Coastal Luxury Management................ 170
Goldberg, Marc
& Maggie D’Ambrosia......................... 258
Commander’s Palace.............................. 124
Gottesman, Ron...................................... 149
Continuum Estate...................................119
Gulbronsen, Dan & Jett......................... 138
264
Rubyn, Jack............................................ 224
Mendocino Coast
Hospital Foundation........................... 257
265
Index of Donors
S
W
San Ysidro Ranch................................... 189
The Waldorf Astoria Hotel....................... 81
Schliff, Don............................................. 182
Wasserman, Becky & Russell Hone...... 234
Schramsberg Vineyards...........................75
Wedell Cellars..........................................111
Schreiner, Rudi....................................... 144
Wedell, Maurice & Susie.........................111
Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery.....
116
Whitman, Deborah & Ed Fitts............... 234
Steiman, Harvey..................................... 216
Williams, Burt & Rebecca Aff................ 189
T
Wilcox, Edward Walton.......................... 252
Will, Patrick & Donna............................ 132
Index of Lifestyle Lots
Commemorative Art Work &
Salmanazar by James-Paul Brown
& Artiste Winery............................. 145
Au Bon Climat & Hartley-Ostini
Harvest Celebration............................ 202
Commemorative Art Work by
Robert Burridge............................... 121
Bertrand de Boutray
French Culinary Trip.......................... 141
Talley, Brian & Johnine......................... 151
Windward Vineyard............................... 258
Talley Vineyards..................................... 151
Winesong!............................................... 257
Terry, Michael..........................................96
Wine Warehouse..................................... 182
by Colleen Gnos................................ 133
Yuroz....................................................... 195
by Karen Krahl.................................. 213
Y
Tribeca Grill.............................................. 81
V
Commemorative Painting by
Adam Licsko..................................... 174
VINTUS................................................... 132
by Joanne Licsko................................93
Vineyard 29/Aida Estate.........................116
Boothe/McLaren
100 Point Dinner................................. 209
Breitstein/CIA History
of California Wine Dinner.................. 208
Commemorative Painting & Jeroboam
by Gary Conway..................................99
The Windsor Court Hotel...................... 124
Tilson, John & Laurie............................ 155
Big Sur Wine & Food
Festival Package.................................. 191
Commemorative Art Work &
Salmanazar by Carissa Chappellet,
Chappellet Winery
& Heitz Cellar................................... 161
Tablas Creek Vineyard.............................89
Thull, Anne............................................ 241
Justin Baldwin
Art & Golf Excursion.......................... 173
Breitstein Lithograph............................. 165
Chappellet Wine Dinner
PRESS Restaurant............................... 169
DiPierro/Palmieri Ristorante
Italian Wine Dinner............................ 103
Domaine Serene Stay............................. 255
Dunn Cabernet Dinner.......................... 147
Eberle Winery “Club Eb” Dinner........... 130
Emeril Carnivale du Vin Experience.... 124
Fairchild/McLaren/
Chappellet Dinner.............................. 105
Commemorative Painting & Salmanazar
by Joanne Beaule Ruggles
& Wedell Cellars................................111
Fry's Electronics Frys.com Open,
a PGA Golf Tour Package................... 229
Fund-A-Need Auction Lot...................... 166
by Anne Thull................................... 241
Gulbronsen Dinner................................ 138
by Edward Walton Wilcox............... 252
McCarver/McLaren
1964 Rare Wine Dinner...................... 180
Margerum Wine Company Dinner....... 237
Commemorative Painting & Salmanazar
by Yuroz & Au Bon Climat............ 195
Acker Merrall & Condit
Wine Workshop Dinner Tasting...........83
Ahwahnee Hotel/
Bracebridge Dinner & Stay................ 259
Aman Resorts Amangani Ski Vacation.. 128
AMA Waterways Paris to Normandy
Cruise.................................................. 144
Archie & Carissa
Cellar Raid Dinner................................78
266
Far Niente Winery
Tour & Dinner.................................... 245
Micato South African
Wine Country Journey....................... 186
Mondavi/Continuum Estate
Luncheon & Magnums.......................119
Narsai David San Francisco Dinner...... 238
Osmena/Nazar
French Laundry Dinner..................... 249
New York Waldorf Astoria/
Myriad Restaurant Group
Culinary Tour........................................ 81
Opus One Twilight
Tour & Tasting and
Auberge Du Soleil Dinner.................. 184
267
Index of Lifestyle Lots
Padis Napa Valley Cult Cabernet
Sauvignon & Napa Valley
Bordeaux Varietal
Blends Dinner..................................... 231
Paris, Bordeaux, the Rhone,
Burgundy and
Champagne Experience..................... 234
Pisoni Tour, Tasting
& Cave Dinner.................................... 179
Robertson/Crystal Cruises/
Four Seasons/Belmond Hotels
Southeast Asia
Culinary Experience........................... 218
San Ysidro Ranch/
Stonehouse Dinner............................. 189
Talley Continental USA Dinner............. 151
The International Wine & Food Society
Marin County Bordeaux Evening &
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
Luncheon ........................................... 224
Tilson White & Red Burgundy
Dinner................................................. 155
Tuscan Holiday....................................... 108
VIP Las Vegas/Los Angeles
Food & Wine Festival......................... 170
Windward Vineyard
Pinot Noir Dinner............................... 258
Winesong! VIP Package.......................... 257
Steiman/McLaren Dinner..................... 216
Tablas Creek Vineyard
Private Tour, Tasting & Dinner............89
268

Archie mcLAren - Central Coast Wine Classic

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Complicated 2014 Pinot Noir Fact Sheet

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2009 Volado