Review of $10,000 High-End Wine Tasting for Charity
Aug 10th 2023
I hosted an extraordinary wine tasting event that blended opulence, education, and generosity into a truly unforgettable evening. With a $10,000 price tag for the experience, 12 discerning guests paid $1,000 each to attend, filling the event to capacity. Remarkably, demand was so high, I could have sold out the event three times over. Every cent of the evening’s profits where donated to charity, underscoring the event’s purpose and impact.
The curated wine list was nothing short of spectacular. Every bottle had earned a rating of 95 or above by the top wine experts in the industry. Some highlights included:
- 2017 Paul Hobbs Richard Dinner Vineyard Chardonnay: A stunning wooded Chardonnay that dazzled even those who typically shy away from the style. Its elegance and complexity were unforgettable.
- 2014 La Rioja Alta Vina Arana Rioja Gran Reserva: A rich, nuanced Spanish treasure.
- 2010 Chateau Pontet-Canet Bordeaux Red Blend: A wine of impeccable depth and character. Rated 100 by most major wine somms $400
- 2020 Torbreck “The Struie” Shiraz: A vibrant expression of Australian craftsmanship.
- 2010 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon: A Chilean classic that showcased the heights of Cabernet artistry.
In total, 12 exceptional wines were presented, each representing a pinnacle of its category.
The event, while undeniably high-end, struck a balance of sophistication and approachability. Neal delivered on the guests’ request for an unpretentious, fun atmosphere with engaging activities that brought everyone closer to the art of wine appreciation. A wine scent kit challenge, featuring 15 aromas often used in sommelier training, was both educational and amusing. Only one guest correctly identified 7 scents, sparking laughter and lively discussion.
Another highlight was a blind tasting of New Zealand vs. French Sauvignon Blancs, where just four attendees correctly identified the origins. This exercise highlighted the subtle differences in terroir and winemaking styles, sparking deeper appreciation for each wine’s unique profile.
The surprise of the evening is when I served the Paul Hobbs wooded Chardonnay, defying the main host’s request for “anything but a wooded Chardonnay.” The result? A room full of converts, marveling at its quality and depth.
My lesson: never underestimate any style of wine.
I threw at the guests some of my expertise, lots of humor, and down-to-earth approach, I tried to transform the evening into more than just a tasting—it was an adventure into the world of fine wine, filled with discovery and indulgence.
Special shout out to Kirstyn Sansom for helping with make the event a success.
This event was a perfect example of how wine can bring people together for a greater purpose. Guests left with a deeper understanding of wine, unforgettable memories, and the satisfaction of supporting a meaningful cause. Cheers to an exceptional evening! 🍷
