The Golden Vines® Auction - support the Gérard Basset Foundation
La Folie de Vougeot - The ultimate Burgundy VIP experience.
As returning guests will know, The Golden Vines® are so much more than the Awards ceremony. In addition to three days of unparalleled luxury, masterclasses and Michelin-starred dining, we also host our Live and Online Charity Auctions. One of the undoubted highlights of an already spectacular weekend, this is a chance for our guests to bid for incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences and lots generously donated by some of the world’s best and most prestigious brands, all while raising money to support the incredible work of the Gérard Basset Foundation.
Ownellaia - Exclusive Bolgheri Experience.
The genesis of the concept
We are constantly striving to deliver excellence for our guests, and each year poses the challenge of delivering something bigger, better and even more exciting. Past lots have included a private tasting hosted by Kylie Minogue, a spectacular nine-course dinner at Massimo Bottura’s three Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana accompanied by an extremely rare jeroboam of one of Italy’s most famous wines, Dal FornoRomano’s iconic flagship wine, Passito Rosso Vino Dolce Vigna Sere 2003 (previously called Reicoto) signed by owner, Romano Dal Forno, courtside tickets to see the Brooklyn Nets play in New York, and a curated and highly exclusive private fashion experience in Florence with Gucci.
So what of this year? A world-class auction needs a world-class auctioneer, and we’re delighted to once again have Sotheby’s compering proceedings and marshalling the paddles. With one of the most formidable reputations in the business and a name that’s instantly recognisable to anyone with even a passing interest in luxury, art and antiquities, they have hundreds of years of experience, helping an international community of collectors and connoisseurs to discover, acquire, finance and consign fine art and rare objects. With a discerning eye and careful selection process, a lot listed with Sotheby’s speaks for itself when it comes to quality and provenance.
This year our lots include private tours and tastings with some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world, exclusive bottles and dinners with Michelin-starred chefs. These are moments, bottles and opportunities that come along once in a lifetime, reserved for only a very lucky few. From La Folie de Vougeot we have an invitation-only romantic overnight stay for two guests in the heart of the Clos Vougeot Grand Cru vineyard, with a unique tasting featuring historical vintages, and exclusive feast prepared by a Michelin-starred chef, where you will be joined by two top tier vignerons. Or from Il Marroneto we have the chance to secure two specially made wooden cases of Brunello di Montalcino Selezione Madonna delle Grazie (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017) and Brunello di Montalcino Vintage (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017) with VIP tour, tasting, and vineyard visit with the irrepressible Alessandro Mori for yourself and three guests. If you prefer port, Taylor’s have generously donated a two-night luxurious journey through the heart of Porto. Here, your adventure begins with a visit to the renowned Taylor’s Port cellars, where you'll have the chance to taste exclusive ports, immersing yourselves in centuries of winemaking tradition. Then, prepare to be whisked away to one of Europe's leading wine hotels, The Yeatman, nestled in the historic heart of Vila Nova de Gaia. At The Yeatman, indulge your senses at the two Michelin Star restaurant, savouring exquisite cuisine paired with the finest wines. As you explore the city, uncover its hidden gems and historic nooks, taking in the vibrant landscape and colourful houses from a unique perspective aboard a charming cruise along the Douro River. And what would a trip to Porto be without exploring the enchanting Douro Valley, the birthplace of Port wine. Your journey continues at the Vintage House Hotel, nestled in the tranquil riverside town of Pinhão. Here, amidst breathtaking scenery, you'll discover the authentic heart of the Douro Valley, one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. With many more lots to be announced, this is just a taste of some of the fantastic opportunities available this year.
Amrita Singh
Everything we do at The Golden Vines® serves a greater purpose and it’s our continued mission to create a better industry for a new generation of hospitality professionals. These exquisite lots are more than just indulgences; they represent opportunities to make a significant impact on the industry. This is why all proceeds from our auction go to support the incredible and very necessary work of the Gérard Basset Foundation, the world’s leading charitable foundation dedicated to using the wine, spirits and hospitality industries as a vehicle for change. Established by Gérard’s widow Nina and son Romané with the support of Liquid Icons Productions, as a way to honour Gérard’s extraordinary legacy, the Foundation aims to support those from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds looking to forge a career in fine wine and hospitality through scholarships, mentoring, access and funding, allowing them to broaden their education and enhance their careers. It has since pledged more than £1,000,000 through 51 grants of funding to 30 partner institutions globally, ranging from grassroots non-profits to world-renowned research institutions. They have committed more than £800,000 to award Scholarships and Bursaries, benefiting individuals across 24 countries globally and directly reached over 1,116 individuals through our Grantee and Awards programme.
Past grantees include The Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA), a non-profit school in South Africa providing education, life skills, vocational training and personal development for 18-25 year-olds from under-resourced communities, supporting them to embark on careers in wine and hospitality. Donations have also gone to support the work of the 280 Project, a grassroots non-profit organisation led by black and brown wine professionals based in San Francisco, California. Through their work, they seek to lift up underrepresented communities through education and wine production. The Gérard Basset Foundation provides support for the 280 Project’s Fellowship Program, which provides 6-7 months of paid viticultural and vinicultural training, teaching “everything from the vine up” to apprentices from underrepresented communities, with a view of enabling them to find permanent employment in the wine industry. The Program is conducted in partnership with Steve Matthiason and UC Davis.
The Foundation’s scholarship programme also supports people like Amrita Singh, who was able to move from India to Bordeaux, undertake a wine business MSc at KEDGE Wine School and the DipWSET, and has since gone on to start her own company and spearhead the creation of the Indian Sommelier Association, bringing India’s wine market to the world, and a fantastic example of the long term positive impact of the Foundation’s support as an instrument for change.
“This scholarship brings not just funding, but also global exposure through the internship programme. It’s changed the course of how I am living, my educational journey and my opportunity to help evolve the wine careers of others in India.”
– Amrita Singh
Taylor’s Port - A luxurious journey through the heart of Porto, filled with unforgettable experiences.
This extraordinary event is not just a celebration of the world’s finest wines and spirits but a testament to the power of collective generosity and the unique camaraderie among wine connoisseurs and benefactors. It’s about bidding with passion and purpose, knowing that every contribution made this evening supports the vital work of the Gérard Basset Foundation, and makes steps towards providing a better and more inclusive industry from which we all inevitably benefit.
With more lots still to be revealed, this is your opportunity to be part of something very special indeed.
Tickets can be purchased here.
The Golden Vines® Live Auction takes place on Friday 25th October as part of the Golden Vines® Gala. The Golden Vines® Online Auction, accessible internationally, and can be accessed here.
To learn more about The Golden Vines® Awards in Madrid, Spain, where this year’s world’s best fine wine makers will be awarded with their 2024 Golden Vines® Trophies, please visit https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards