Kentucky Derby Watch Party & Wine Auction

Raising a glass AND a bottle for local charity!

We had the distinct honor of launching our inaugural Derby Day Watch Party and Wine Auction on May 2nd, 2026.  All proceeds went to bolster the finances of the Children's Center of North West North Carolina, located in Dobson.  This event had so much more to offer than just wine, but the wine was exceptional, nonetheless.

The evening started off with some delicious wine cocktails, the Lilly and Down the Stretch, made with the wines of Serre Vineyards.  After some quality conversations and libations, it was time for the Derby Hat Contest.  It was not easy to determine a winner simply for the fact that the ladies all brought their “A” game for the traditional Derby Day head adornments.  After three rounds of closely contested duels, one happy winner, Tess, took home the gift certificate and title, "Derby Hat Queen".

Of course, the “Run For the Roses” was the reason for the fancy hats.  The watch party was so much fun. Everyone was amazed by the pre-race drama (a last minute scratch), and a finish like no one had ever seen. History was made and now it was time to celebrate. Cue the Champagne!

We popped open some very fine bottles of Taittinger to toast the big winner. This led us into our three course dinner and silent auction items; Caymus Cab, Cakebread Cab, and La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva.

Samuel Holder then stepped up as our wine auctioneer, with the help of Sommelier Ed Badgett III to give the stories of each wine lot, eight in all. Between Samuel's oratory prowess and Ed's colorful descriptions of these highly sought after, collectable wines, the auction was a huge success.  Names like Chateau Canon, Veitti, Albert Bichot, Laurent Perrer, Ducru, Sea Smoke, and the list goes on, were going home with wine lovers and aficionados.  That's what we call a win/win!

If you think you would enjoy this type of event, please follow our webpage and social media.  Always more to come.

Cheers!