Proceeds from this year’s event help create marketing programs and initiatives that support Sonoma County’s wine trade and community. The auction, held in May, featured 63 unique barrel lots, ranging from five to 20 cases from 69 participating Sonoma County vintners.
Over 300 guests attended the auction, including trade and media guests, partners, participating vintners, and celebrated honorees. Guests from across the United States and from as far away as the United Kingdom and Ireland traveled to Sonoma County for the event.
The highest selling barrel auction lot of the day was the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Legacy 20-case lot from Silver Oak, and it sold for $43,000. A 2023 Pinot Noir lot called 20-1-20 from Williams Selyem commanded the second highest price at $29,000.
Before bidding started, the 10th Anniversary Sonoma County Barrel Auction Honorees were recognized on stage. George Christie, founder and CEO of Wine Industry Network and partner of Saini Vineyards, received the Innovator award. Marimar Torres, founder and president of Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery, was honored as the Icon. Zelma Long, an enologist, winemaker, consultant, and author for more than 50 years, accepted the Lifetime Achievement award.
Next year’s Sonoma County Barrel Auction is planned for May 1–2, 2025.