T he Napa Valley’s status as the country’s most iconic wine region, home to some of the finest wine producers in the United States, is the result of generations of incessant innovation. The great viticulturalists, winemakers and consultants who built this region each left indelible marks. Now, collectors and enthusiasts flock here for terroir-expressive, compelling bottles crafted by the talented individuals and families who safeguard the valley’s renown.
Today, the region, like much of California, is threatened by climate change, appearing in the forms of extreme weather events, drought and forest fires often resulting in smoke-tainted grapes. In November 2022, the inimitable Opus One winery in Oakville, CA, provided the setting for an evening that both celebrates the new harvest and, more crucially, renews support for two entities that focus on some of the most pressing issues caused by a changing climate. The Napa County Resource Conservation District and the Napa Communities Firewise Foundation carry out the vital work of maintaining firebreaks and restoring forest land, and otherwise work tirelessly to protect the livelihood of this great region.
Sotheby’s has shared in the Napa Valley’s pursuit of innovation and celebrated greatness ever since its very first wine auction in 1970. For the past 2 years, the auction house has been powering a series of charity events hosted by the Napa Valley Vintners. Last year’s Collective Napa Valley Vintage Celebration raised $2.1 million for the Forest Health Initiative, already making visible impact on reforestation and fire mitigation efforts within the Napa Valley community.
Napa Resource Conservation District (Napa RCD) and Napa Communities Firewise Foundation (NCFF) reported on the following significant developments:
- Up to 300 acres of wildfire-resilient habitat enhancement sites have been identified and up to 178 acres of those projects are currently in progress
- Nearly 100 Napa County residents have been educated on ways in which they can enhance their properties’ wildfire resilience capabilities, with education planned for an additional 300 community members
- Improvements have been identified on 144 miles of fire roads to increase longevity and reduce maintenance costs
Together with members of Napa Valley Vintners, Sotheby’s and Collective Napa Valley are proud to offer once again exceptional experiences in the spirit of coming together to do good and preserve Napa Valley for future generations.
The Fine Wines and Experiences Benefiting the Forest Health Initiative auction will provide any wine enthusiast with the opportunity to acquire special offerings directly from Napa Valley wineries, including vertical collections and large format wines to be found nowhere else in the world. Additionally, this auction will offer the opportunity to bid on unique experiences that invite you to enjoy unparalleled Napa Valley hospitality and the natural beauty of this magnificent place. The auction opens for advance bidding on Thursday, November 9 and closes via an online-only auction on Monday, November 20 starting at 3:00pm ET in New York.