Washington Barrel Auction Raises $251,500

Largest total yet for trade-only barrel auction featuring unique wines from the state’s top wineries

by L.M. Archer

Woodinville, Wash.—The fourth annual Auction of Washington Wines private barrel auction raised more than $245,000 to benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington State University Viticulture and Enology Program, nearly exceeding the total from the previous three auctions combined.

“We’re popping our buttons!” said winemaker and master of wine Bob Betz. “It shows, especially to bidders from outside the area, Washington state’s presence on the world stage now.”

The auction is “private” to members of the trade who traveled from as far as Europe, New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, and California for a chance to bid on Washington state’s top-tier blends, including lots like Sparkman Cellar’s 2016 “Black Dragon,” made from 50% Malbec and 50% Petit Verdot.

“The winemakers really took hold of the concept this year and made unique wines,” said event director Jamie Peha. “These wines are made in exclusive, five-case lots so members of the trade, restaurateurs and retailers who purchase these wines can then market them for their top clients across the country.”

The auction has raised $270,000 in the past three years and that cumulative total was almost surpassed by this year’s auction that took place on Aug. 16 at Novelty Hill-Januik Winery in Woodinville. Read more here. 

More by L.M. Archer in Wine Business Monthly here.

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