BUCKINGHAM — In spite of trying economic times, The Lake County Wine Auction raised more money for charity this year than it did last year.
The wine industry in Lake County hosted its ninth annual wine auction on Saturday night.
According to Rob Roumiguiere, director of finance of the wine auction committee, approximately $100,000 will be distributed to the beneficiaries. Last year it was $93,000.
About 400 people attended the sold-out, largest single charity event in the county.
The wine auction boasts the distinction of providing the highest proceeds to non-profit organizations, according to Wilda Shock media representative of the Lake County Wine Alliance.
Jim Williams” band J.W.”s Ranch House played a variety of popular songs as patrons grazed the culinary delights and sampled the wine that shines in Northern California and around the world.
Watercolors restaurant served a divine prosciutto wrapped black mission fig, which went well with Gregory Graham Zinfandel.
Once the crowd was directed to seats, Andy Beckstoffer, Chairman and CEO of Beckstoffer Vineyards and Chair of the Lake County Wine Alliance introduced Congressman Mike Thompson with vivacious praise.
” When he was in the California State Senate, the budget got in on time,” Beckstoffer said.
An obviously humble Thompson took the stage and asked the audience “Is anybody wearing boots in here? You need to after that.”
Auction items represented a variety of interests. Bob Maher of Maherajah Water Skis designed and handcrafted a beautiful bistro table for the auction. There were vacations and “staycations,” meaning overnight stays at some of Lake County”s premier destinations.
Large paintings created by Jan McKinney of Kelseyville complemented the atmosphere. The tables dressed in autumn colors were brightened by the pastel wine labels ? John Clarke”s “Summer Dreams,” a spectacular watercolor-on-silk creation.
A large white tent erected at Buckingham Golf and Country Club was transformed into a museum, a restaurant, a tasting room and a social club, but most importantly, a place to gather and help the community while showcasing those attributes that make Lake County a place that takes care of its people.
The final tallies of the auction were not available as of press time. Information on this event will appear as more numbers come in.
Mandy Feder can be reached at mfeder@record-bee.com.
