Celebrating Excellence: Sonoma County Barrel Auction
Last updated on July 25, 2024.
The Nordby team was honored to participate in the 10th annual Sonoma County Barrel Auction (SoCoBA), hosted by Sonoma County Vintners at the picturesque MacMurray Ranch on May 3, 2024. Over 300 guests attended the esteemed event, a confluence of passion, tradition, and innovation in winemaking that celebrates the diversity and excellence of Sonoma County wines.
This year’s invitation-only live auction saw a brilliant lineup of Never Before, Never Again Wines – a unique opportunity to acquire exclusive handcrafted wine by the region’s top vintners that will never be replicated. The auction featured 63 unique barrel lots, with each lot ranging from 5 to 20 cases, crafted by 69 participating Sonoma County vintners.
More than $400,000 was raised, with proceeds dedicated to supporting marketing programs and initiatives that bolster the Sonoma County wine trade and community. The highest-selling lot, a 20-case lot of 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon “Legacy” from Silver Oak, fetched an impressive $43,000. Auctioneer John Curley’s vibrant and engaging style kept the energy high, culminating in a memorable finale with guests singing along to “Sweet Caroline.”
Each year, SoCoBA honors individuals who have significantly impacted Sonoma County’s wine heritage and future. This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Tom Klein, Proprietor of Rodney Strong Vineyards, while Lee Sr. and Carolyn Martinelli, Proprietors of Martinelli Winery, were recognized as Icons. Theresa Heredia, Director of Winemaking at Gary Farrell Winery, was celebrated as an Innovator for her visionary contributions to the wine industry.
Attending SoCoBA offers more than the thrill of acquiring exclusive wines; it’s an opportunity to network with industry professionals, including trade and media representatives, partners, honorees, and the winemakers who bring these exceptional wines to life. We look forward to next year’s auction and the continued celebration of the people and wines that make Sonoma County a premier wine destination.