Choosing Wine for Your Fundraiser
WHETHER IT’S A LARGE ANNUAL GALA OR A PRIVATE EVENT IN A WINE CAVE, GOOD WINES LUBRICATE GOOD CAUSES. Fred Naddeo
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ART OF THE FUN AT MANY FUNDRAISERS IS THE
food and drink that enhance guests’ enjoyment at the event. Addressing just the drinks aspect, and more specifically wine, serving well-chosen wines can create a more festive atmosphere, encourage more participation in planned activities—like auctions and wine pulls—and even amplify donor generosity overall. Careful planning for the wine you serve can help it be a star. Whether served at your event or used as a prize (see the sidebar), there are many great choices at a wide range of price points. In Pennsylvania, one way to find interesting wines at affordable prices is from the Chairman’s Selection program, offering hand-picked wines typically sold for a fraction of their list prices and an excellent value. And even if you’re not planning a fundraiser, these recommendations work equally well for your next gathering ... or even your private enjoyment. WINES FOR SIPPING For tasty wines that appeal to a wide range of people, I recommend two malbecs. The first is from Mendoza, Argentina—Zuccardi Serie A Malbec Valle de Uco 2018 for $9.99. This easydrinking wine is medium-bodied and full of dark fruit notes. It was highly rated by both James Suckling and The Wine Advocate. Another wine to try, also from Mendoza, is Luigi Bosca Malbec Single 74
County Lines | March 2020 | CountyLinesMagazine.com
Vineyard Luján de Cuyo 2016 D.O.C.
for $15.99. This one is a complex, medium- to full-bodied wine, showing hints of blueberry overlaid by chocolate notes. Ask your wine specialist for additional ideas. They love helping pair wine with your special event! WINE FOR DINNERS For a fundraising dinner party, consider wines from the Rombauer Vineyards brand, a perfect complement to food. Founded in 1980 by Koerner and Joan Rombauer, this vineyard’s first wines were released in 1984. Two recommended Rombauer wines are chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. In 1993, the Carneros chardonnay made its first of four appearances on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 wines list, propelling it to become one of the most popular chardonnays. Look for Rombauer Vineyards Chardonnay Carneros 2017 for $39.99. It’s rich and full bodied with butter and vanilla notes that complement the fruit flavors. For a red wine option, try Rombauer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley for $64.99. It’s a full bodied and complex cabernet with spice notes and smooth tannins that carry the wine to a long finish.
