Last year’s Wine Auction raised $44,000 for local nonprofit entities and schools.

By Rob Christopher

Rob Christopher

Didn’t get a chance to make it to Churchill Downs racetrack for the Kentucky Derby this year? Well, here’s your chance to don that Derby hat, pamper yourself with wine and food tastings, sway to live music, and enjoy a fun-filled philanthropic evening hosted by the Morgan Hill Community Foundation. In collaboration with the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley, this highly anticipated event will take place Saturday, July 27, at the picturesque Clos LaChance Winery in San Martin.

Fellow wine enthusiasts and community advocates will appreciate the chance to bid on a unique selection of wines and experiences, connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy the exquisite ambience of our Santa Clara Valley wine country. Attendance will also contribute to supporting local non-profit organizations, making a positive impact on the greater Morgan Hill community.

Highlighting our local region’s fine wines, the Wine Auction promises to be a delightful blend of live entertainment, wine tasting, Chef Lou’s culinary creations, and charitable giving — this all against the stunning setting of vineyards and rolling hills.

Festivities will also include a derby hat contest, raffle prizes, silent auction, big band-style jazz music by Pacific Pop ’n’ Jazz, and the live auction presided by Morgan Hill Mayor Mark Turner. You’ll be able to bid on an array of exciting items like a VIP suite at a San Jose Sharks game and a luxurious seven-night stay in Mexico. Those not attending the event may still support the Morgan Hill Community Foundation by partaking in the silent auction, which is now open for anyone who would like to bid, using the event auction app, Auctria.

Tickets for the 2024 Santa Clara Valley Wine Auction are available for purchase online at www.santaclaravalleywineauction.org. Both General Admission and VIP Experience tickets are available.

Doors open for general admission guests at 6 p.m. Tickets are priced at $95 in advance and $115 at the door. There is also a discounted tickets special running that provides one (1) complimentary general admission ticket for every three (3) tickets purchased. To redeem, simply use the code “buythree” after adding four tickets to your cart

The VIP Experience begins at 5 p.m. Those tickets are $150 and available for advance purchase only, with limited availability.

While general admission ticket holders will indulge in a full range of wine and food tastings from regional wineries and Chef Lou’s gastronomic conceptions, VIP ticketholders will enjoy exclusive perks including early entry, pre-selected reserve wine tastings, unique bites, and a barrel tasting.

Proceeds from this prestigious event will benefit leading charitable organizations serving the greater Morgan Hill area. Last year’s Wine Auction was a huge success raising approximately $44,000 directly benefiting local nonprofit entities and schools.

In 2023, the organization granted $32,000 to 13 non-profit organizations in multiple areas of community service, including Arts and Culture, Recreation, Education and Lifelong Learning, Science and Technology, Health & Humane Services and Environment & Agriculture.

Please note that the Wine Auction is an event for ages 21 and over. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of wine, generosity, and community spirit. Saddle up and join us at the 2024 Santa Clara Valley Wine Auction!

Rob Christopher is the president of the board for the Morgan Hill Community Foundation.