The V Foundation for Cancer Research is gearing up for its highly anticipated Sonoma Epicurean Gala & Auction on March 29 at Montage Healdsburg. This premier event, named the “Best Fundraiser Weekend” by San Francisco Magazine, is all about raising funds for groundbreaking cancer research. Over the past three years, the gala has generated an impressive $10 million, and this year’s event promises to be just as spectacular.
A Night of Fine Wine, Exquisite Cuisine, and Generous Giving
The evening will bring together some of Sonoma County’s finest vintners, including Three Sticks, Bricoleur, Lynmar Estate, Knights Bridge, Weather Wines, and Skipstone. Guests will indulge in a luxurious dining experience, curated by Montage Executive Chef Jason Pringle, while bidding on 20 exclusive auction lots. Every dollar raised will go directly toward cancer research, making this a night where generosity meets indulgence.
Auction Highlights: Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences
The auction will feature some truly remarkable experiences, from sports extravaganzas to wine and culinary adventures. Here’s a glimpse at a few standout lots:
The Best of Sports at the ESPYS with Weather Wines
This package is a dream for sports fans. Four guests will enjoy a star-studded weekend in Southern California from July 13-16, beginning with the ESPYS Celebrity Golf Classic at the luxurious Westlake Village Inn. The highlight? A VIP experience at the ESPY Awards in Hollywood, complete with red carpet access and an exclusive after-party.
After the glitz and glamour, the experience continues with a private wine tasting at Weather Wines’ estate in Los Carneros. Guests will sample world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, paired with gourmet dishes prepared by Weather’s Estate Chef. The package also includes a one-year membership to the Atmosphere wine club.
Women in Sports Meets Women in Wine
For those who love both basketball and fine wine, this lot offers a unique blend of WNBA action and vineyard elegance. It starts in Indianapolis, where two guests will attend the WNBA All-Star Weekend on July 18-19, including the Three-Point Shoot-Off and the All-Star Game. This is a rare opportunity to witness Caitlin Clark’s first WNBA Three-Point Shoot-Off.
After the games, the experience moves to Sonoma, where 16 guests will enjoy an intimate dinner at Garden Creek Vineyards, featuring top female winemakers and sports legends. The night will be extra special with a visit from basketball icon Tara VanDerveer, the winningest coach in NCAA history. Guests will enjoy a vineyard tour, a feast prepared by Sonoma’s celebrity chef Duskie Estes, and a thoughtful gift from Garden Society’s CEO, Erin Gore.
Say Aloha with Exclusive Resorts and Three Sticks Wines
This luxurious getaway takes six people to Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui for five nights. Guests will stay in a three-bedroom ocean-view villa, just a short walk from the beach. Activities include exploring hidden beaches, scenic hikes, golf at Kapalua’s top courses, and spa treatments. A dedicated concierge will handle every detail, from dining reservations to grocery shopping.
To bring a taste of Sonoma to Hawaii, Three Sticks Wines will host an exclusive dinner at a premier restaurant near the villa. Guests will also receive select bottles of Three Sticks Wines to enjoy at home.
Join the Cause: How to Participate
To register, visit v.org/sonomaepic. If you can’t attend in person, proxy bidding is available.
This event, co-presented by Weather Wines and Colossal, is more than just a glamorous evening—it’s a chance to make a real impact in the fight against cancer. Every bid, every sip of wine, and every shared meal brings us closer to Victory Over Cancer