Our Interactive Dinner auction is filled with exciting travel, tasty wines and delicious dinners with friends.
Can’t make it to our Interactive Dinner? No reason to miss out on bidding. Request a proxy and you will have your shot or you may even be able to buy the lot of your dreams outright.
Interactive Dinner Live Auctions
Lot 1001
THE CHAIRMEN’S CHOICE
Sixteen 750ml bottles of Second Act Napa Valley Red Wine, four bottles each of vintages 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. The wine was blended and bottled by a collective led by United Way of Miami-Dade chairman Carlos Migoya and immediate past chairman Mike Farra
We’re kicking off our Interactive Dinner with a salute to our chairmen – current United Way of Miami-Dade chair Carlos Migoya and immediate past chair Mike Farra. They are both well known as wine connoisseurs and wine collectors, and now they are wine makers as well, working with a group of friends also well known to the VeritageMiami audience: Maria and Sergio González-Arias and Susan and Mark Bloom. In this auction lot, the group shares their treasured project called Second Act.
Second Act is, we believe, a soon-to-be cult Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon that was personally selected and custom blended by Mike, Carlos, Mark and Sergio. Only one barrel (288 bottles) of Second Act was produced for its debut vintage in 2013, and equally small (shall we say boutique, or even cult?) quantities have followed in the succeeding vintages. Here, you have a chance to sample all four vintages released so far – each member of the consortium is donating a mini-vertical, so you end up with four precious bottles of each vintage – a substantial portion of the world’s supply!
An excellent wine (already lovely to drink with many years ahead) and a strong commitment to United Way of Miami-Dade: how can you not raise your paddle and show your support for Miami’s newest winemakers??!!
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $1,000
Thanks to Carlos Migoya, Nelly and Mike Farra, Maria and Sergio González-Arias and Susan and Mark Bloom
Lot 1002
THE HENNESSY EXPERIENCE
A Cognac experience for eight people at Bourbon Steak at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, Aventura. The evening includes a master class in the art of Cognac and Cocktails, followed by dinner prepared by Bourbon Steak chef Gabe Fenton, and it concludes with a Hennessy Paradis Impérial experience
For the wine lover, Cognac is a very particular spirit because it is made from wine and has a unique affinity for wine-filled evenings, especially an evening such as this one. Hennessy Cognac invites you to experience this marvelous spirit in a variety of guises and to discover the rich world of Cognac and to master the art of classic cocktails in this exclusive Hennessy dinner experience.
Get to know Hennessy and its pivotal role in some of the world’s most renowned cocktails while enjoying a dinner delight at Bourbon Steak. Be entertained, educated and satiated as you learn the craft of the cocktail, understand the complexity taste and become an expert in mixing your own classics with the finest of cognacs.
And then, to wrap up your spirited evening, join Hennessy’s Victor Blanquart for a unique, personally guided Paradis Impérial experience. Discover 250 years of Hennessy expertise in crafting a superb Cognac with the ultimate experience of Hennessy Paradis Impérial. From start to finish, this is an amazing demonstration of what wine can be when it grows up and gets distilled!
CONDITIONS
Dinner is to be held on a mutually agreed-upon date.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $11,000
Thanks to Moët-Hennessy USA
Lot 1003
A VINOUS PROGRESSION
This “cellar crawl” is a progressive tasting featuring wine and food at four of South Florida’s most admired cellars. A limousine takes a group of eight friends to four cellars in one evening with each stop offering a different dinner course and wine pairings. The wine collections include those of Nelly and Mike Farra, Susan and Bob Norton, June and Allen Morris, and Maria and Sergio González-Arias
The “Cellar Crawl” is invariably one of the most popular auction lots we offer at VeritageMiami, and the good news is you don’t really have to crawl.
In our version of a pub crawl, a limousine takes a group of eight friends to four cellars in one evening. In this unprecedented auction lot, four passionate supporters of VeritageMiami offer to open their cellars in a chauffeured four-course wine extravaganza. Our limousine takes you first to the home of Nelly and Mike Farra for an appetizer and a tasting from their collection of Champagne.
For the second stop, Susan and Bob Norton open their cellar to match wines from their extensive collection with an enticing first course.
The potable pleasures continue when the limousine takes your group to the home of June and Allen Morris, where their collection of dazzling California treasures is paired with a main course offering.
And, for the grand finale, your group heads to the home of Maria and Sergio González-Arias where you are joined by the previous three hosts for a festive finish with dessert and a generous pour from Maria and Sergio’s carefully crafted collection.
It’s rare enough to be invited into a great wine cellar, and rarer still to visit more than one in an evening. To be able to do so with a group of friends – well, that’s priceless, yet not unattainable … for the high bid on this VeritageMiami exclusive.
CONDITIONS
The certificate for the limousine is valid for one year. To be held on a mutually agreed-upon date.
PRICELESS
Thanks to Nelly and Mike Farra, Maria and Sergio González-Arias, June and Allen Morris, Susan and Bob Norton, and OneLimo Alliance
Lot 1004
A WEEK IN PROVENCE
Five nights in the South of France, including a standard room at the extraordinary Relais & Chateau property Château de Rochegude in Provence; and tasting at Celliers Dauphins that provides you with a vinous tour of the entire Southern Rhône valley, and a guided tour, tasting and wine-and food-pairing experience at the much-heralded boutique winery Chêne Bleu. Round-trip air travel to Europe on American Airlines included
We wine lovers are all about aroma, flavor and sensory memories, and there is no lot in this auction more tailored for all those senses than this one. Is it possible time passes more dreamily and at a slower pace in Provence, or is that just a fantasy spurred on by Impressionist paintings, café ballads, the aroma of wild thyme in the air and the lingering recollections of savoring tapenade and bouillabaisse?
Just from the title of this exotic lot, you can smell the thyme and lavender, almost taste a hint of saffron, tiny black olives and sharp cheese, and contemplate a stroll through markets in small, out of the way villages. Provence – it is the place of dreams and they are dreams with wine and a flavor (and aroma) all their own. Fortunately, these are also dreams that come true for the lucky winner of this lot, beginning with your home base for five nights, Château de Rochegude, a gorgeous Relais & Château property situated in a rural Provençal park.
You will get to know the area when you spend a day tasting wine and touring vineyards of the region with your hosts at nearby Cellier des Dauphins, a leading producer of wines from classified villages as well as the great expanse embraced by the Côte-du-Rhône appellation. Spend a couple of days touring some of the romantic villages that dot the countryside like Ménerbes and Gordes (we’ll help assure you visit on market days) and then go for the gold with a visit to the extraordinary Chêne Bleu. Housed in the ninth century priory of La Verrière, Chêne Bleu is a wine estate, producer of what several wine magazines have called, “the world’s first ‘Super-Rhônes.’” You will experience first-hand why Chêne Bleu is winner of the InterRhône Oenotourism Award and the several Luxury Travel Guide Awards for Best Culinary Experience in the entire region. There, you will be treated to a special guided cellar tour and tasting of Chêne Bleu’s multi-award-winning wines in the private VIP tasting cellar, followed by a lunch featuring the domain’s signature food and wine pairing experience.
This South of France experience has it all – spectacular scenery, great wine, dazzling food and people who, like you, are passionate about wine. What better vacation could one possibly find? We were won over at the first suggestion of the concierge at Château de Rochegude: take the day to stroll and come back for a seat on the terrace and an afternoon snack of, “warm local truffles, thinly sliced, seasoned and lightly steamed with butter, accompanied by eggs and slices of toast.”
CONDITIONS
The stay at Château de Rochegude must be taken between October 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020 (don’t worry, this is Provence and beautiful any time of year). Winner is responsible for booking the trip and for any taxes, fees and gratuities. All elements of this package are subject to availability, and void during peak travel times and holidays. Advance reservations required. Round-trip air travel from Miami is provided by 440,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles (equivalent to two round-trip business air travel to Europe during nonpeak season and may vary by schedule as determined by American Airlines). All components of this package are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and not redeemable for cash. Blackout dates may apply.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $17,500
Thanks to American Airlines, Cellier des Dauphins, Château de Rochegude and Chêne Bleu
Lot 1005
SAILING WITH CRYSTAL CLARITY
Your choice of an all-inclusive cruise for two with up to 14 days duration aboard the Crystal Serenity® or Crystal Symphony® in a Penthouse with Verandah
Few voyages are more beguiling to both the experienced traveler and cruise novice alike than an all-inclusive sailing basking in the refined elegance of Crystal Cruises. The winner of this exclusive auction lot will be able to choose any cruise aboard the Crystal Symphony® or the Crystal Serenity® between now and March 15, 2020.
Do you fancy a cruise in Asia, or how about a Baltic sailing in late summer? Perhaps a sailing in the Seychelles would appeal to the wanderer in you, or a visit to the scenic ports of Japan or the magnificent glaciers and fjords of Alaska. The world is open to you with this incredible opportunity to sail wherever you wish. As long as there is space available, you decide where and when to go.
Today, Crystal Symphony® and Crystal Serenity® are the stewards of the line’s award-winning reputation, recipient of more World’s Best awards than any other cruise line in history.
Crystal Symphony® and Crystal Serenity® feature innovative dining options and expanded specialty venues. Guests can savor the arrival of each new day with a quiet breakfast on your private verandah or, enjoy complimentary in-room dining any time, day or night.
With Michelin star-inspired cuisine and open-seating in up to 10 dining venues, the choices, all of them, are exclusively yours. More state-of-the-art technologies including free, unlimited Wi-Fi, and spacious new suites and penthouses. Enjoy an array of award-winning entertainment and enrichment, and complimentary fitness programs as well as optional spa and salon indulgences.
Complement the day’s Crystal Adventures shore excursions with an evening at Umi Uma, Nobu Matsuhisa’s only restaurant at sea.
Experience worldwide destinations ashore, then return to the welcoming luxury and state-of-the-art amenities of your Crystal home at sea. With hundreds of ports in dozens of countries across seven continents, every great journey begins and ends with Crystal.
Go ahead, pick a date, pick a destination and let the planning begin! Isn’t it time you saw the world with Crystal clarity?
CONDITIONS
Your prize entitles you and a guest to join us on a luxurious, all-inclusive cruise, up to 14-days onboard Crystal Symphony or Crystal Serenity (based on availability, blackout dates may apply). Cruise must be taken within one year of the event date (expires March 15, 2020). No extensions will be granted. You and your guest will enjoy a Penthouse with Verandah, valued up to $30,000. This figure represents the cruise-only fare and does not include cruise port, security and handling charges for two guests, as currently published at www.crystalcruises.com. Your luxury cruise includes stateroom and dining staff gratuities, many premium non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, housekeeping gratuities, and other features included in the onboard experience. This cruise is not redeemable for cash value or value toward a longer cruise and is non-transferable and non-commissionable. Your cruise does not include round-trip air transportation, airport transfers, cruise port, security and handling charges, travel insurance, shore excursions or any on-board expenses not included in the cruise fare (i.e. spa services, boutique purchases and gambling, etc.). Crystal Cruises reserves the right to change or deviate from the ship’s advertised itinerary or route, delay, advance or cancel any sailing or ports of call. Upgrade room category options are subject to further charges and availability.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $30,000
Thanks to Crystal Cruises
Lot 1006
FLIRTING WITH PERFECTION
A dinner for eight at the home of Maria and Sergio González-Arias, paired with Parker-rated 100-point wines from the González-Arias’ personal cellar
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind dinner to wow your group of eight! Maria and Sergio love to entertain, and an invitation to their home is an invitation to a generous party. Their cellar is stocked full of tasty treats and the González-Ariases are offering to uncork their finest – a collection of Robert Parker’s 100-point wines — paired with a palate-pleasing multi-course dinner. The González-Arias hospitality is well known among VeritageMiami wine lovers, and here they are amping it up, pledging some of the highest-rated wines in their eclectic collection, which is to say, the best of the best.
Good company and great wine and food – a match not only made in heaven but only available at VeritageMiami. At the end of the evening, your group will be left with just one lingering desire, the chance to do it all over again.
CONDITIONS
Dinner will be held on a mutually agreed-upon date.
PRICELESS
Thanks to Maria and Sergio González-Arias
Lot 1007
TOURING BORDEAUX IN TWELVE BOTTLES
An exceptional collection of Bordeaux reds, including one 750ml bottle each of the following wines: Château Pichon-Baron 2009, Château Pichon-Lalande 2010 and 2006, Château Lynch-Bages 2009 and 2005, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 2006, Château Pontet Canet 2010, Clos Fourtet 2005 and 2006, Château Léoville-Barton 2010, Château Léoville-Poyferré 2009, Château Montrose 2008
To the new wine lover, Bordeaux is both a bastion of Old-World know-how and a little impenetrable. To the wine lover with some experience, however, Bordeaux reveals itself as not one but many places – talk there abounds of terroir and micro-climates, of great houses and hallowed traditions, of vintages and vignerons from the past and wines carefully stored for the future. If that experienced wine lover is you, or if you wish to have such experience, welcome home – we have a VeritageMiami auction lot that will keep you smiling for years to come. Nelly and Mike Farra love Bordeaux as you do, and they have lovingly collected some of the great wines of a decade of great vintages grouped collectively as “the aughts,” the vintages of the first decade of the 21st century. If that seems recent, consider that these wines are all hovering around 10 years of age and thus are entering their first period of drinkability. To be sure, you can save these wines for many years, but several are enjoyable now (i.e. to share tonight with your table!)
One other thing to appreciate about this auction lot: Nelly and Mike have very generously assembled a tour of Bordeaux within this case, including wines from both the Right and Left Banks, from Saint-Émilion and three of the four prestigious communes of the Médoc, and thus, in both geography and quality give us the very best of the what is likely the most classic red wine region in the world.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $3,600
Thanks to Nelly and Mike Farra
Lot 1008
TANK FOR THE MEMORIES
Cartier Tank Américaine watch, medium model, quartz movement. Rhodiumized 18K white gold case set with brilliant-cut diamonds and a 9-sided crown set with a brilliant-cut diamond. Silvered flinqué dial. Blued-steel sword-shaped hands. Mineral crystal. Rhodiumized 18K white gold bracelet set with brilliant cut diamonds. Total diamond weight 3.26 carats. Case dimensions: 34.8 mm x 19.0 mm. Case thickness: 7.34 mm. Water-resistant to approximately 30 meters (100 feet)
In the worlds of jewelry and of fashion there are few items more iconic than Cartier’s exquisite tank watch. The Tank Américaine design is more elongated and has a slightly more pronounced curve than Louis Cartier’s original, giving it both a hint of elegance and an appealing sleekness. Of course, with more than three carats of diamonds and the clean, white gold of this exclusive medium-sized model, one can easily understand Cartier’s calling this design “powerfully elegant.”
For the jewelry connoisseur or devotee of fashion, this is an extraordinary as well as utilitarian timepiece and will be a treasured keepsake for generations to come.
DREAM COMES TRUE @ $50,000
Thanks to Neckman Jewelers
Lot 1009
LIVE IT UP IN THE LOIRE
One week at Susan and Bob Norton’s private home in the Loire Valley with round-trip air travel for two from Miami to Paris on American Airlines
Often called the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is an enchanted land of vineyards, flowers and rolling green hills dotted with more than a thousand chateaux. Once the playground of French royalty, today a visit to the Loire Valley is a look back at France’s most fabled age of kings and their lavish pleasures. Since the time of François the First, the Loire has been a storied place with majestic views and treasured wines. It is the land of Vouvray, Sancerre, and Savennières, as well as Chinon where one finds wonderful red wines made from cabernet franc. The Loire is also home to some of France’s most inspired cooking.
What better way to explore this glorious part of France than from the beautiful home of Susan and Bob Norton. Perfect for two families, the home is just a two hour drive from Charles de Gaulle airport by car. The two master bedrooms have king-size beds, one bedroom has a queen-size bed, and one has two twins. The home features a magnificent garden and French antiques, and a wine cellar that is – truly – a cellar: it is a large, curved room with a dirt floor that wines love. This is the true French countryside experience in the beautiful chateau country of the Loire Valley, near the fortress-like chateau at Blois, with the incredibly opulent Chambord and other châteaux a short drive away. For the wine lover, the Loire Valley is home not only to beautiful chateaux, but also to some of France’s best wines.
We’ll fly you to Paris, and then you have a week to roam on your own – seven wonderful days in the land of castles and wine, but only if you are the fortunate winning bidder of this enticing auction lot!
CONDITIONS
Package does not include ground transportation. Winner is responsible for booking trip. All elements of this package are subject to availability, and void during peak travel times and holidays. Advance reservations required. Round-trip air travel from Miami to Paris is provided by 440,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles (equivalent to two round-trip business class air travel to Europe during nonpeak season and may vary by schedule as determined by American Airlines) and does not include air travel within Europe. Winner is responsible for any taxes, fees and gratuities. All components of this package are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and not redeemable for cash. Blackout dates may apply.
DREAM COMES TRUE @ $22,500
Thanks to American Airlines and Susan and Bob Norton
Lot 1010
SOUTH AMERICA WINE ADVENTURE
An extraordinary trip for two to experience the wines of South America by spending five days in Chile and Argentina during the Southern Hemisphere’s peak wine-growing time, between November and March. Business class air travel from Miami to Santiago, transportation between Santiago and Mendoza, Argentina, and the return flight to Miami. The trip includes events, tastings, lunches and dinners for five days, and stays at luxury hotels in Santiago, Zapallar on the Chilean coast and in Mendoza. During the trip, you will visit Zorzal Winery in Mendoza and Morandé Winery in Chile’s Casablanca Valley, and experience many more amenities
While our description could go on for several paragraphs, let’s just acknowledge up front that the wineries of the Grupo Belen have gotten together to create a trip that aims to share the similarities and diversities of wine in Chile and Argentina, complete with extravagant tasting opportunities. There will be vineyard visits, but more importantly you will experience the cultural terroir of these two important wine-growing countries. Here’s a short breakdown of a phenomenal trip:
You fly overnight to Santiago and on your first day enjoy Chile’s capital city with a tour, a wine tasting hosted by Morandé at Vinolia followed by lunch at the Golf Club Los Leones and, if you like, a round of golf at one of Chile’s most prestigious courses. You have time to refresh at the luxurious Hotel Noi before a sumptuous dinner.
The next day, you are off to the Casablanca Valley, lying between Santiago and the Atlantic coast, and a tasting and lunch at Morandé Winery. Then enjoy some relaxing time and a beautiful sunset dinner at Restaurant Chiringuito on Zapallar Beach. You’ll stay at Hotel Isla Seca for the night before taking a short flight over the Andes the next morning to start your exploration of Mendoza’s wine regions. You’ll have time to explore Mendoza before heading to Francis Mallman’s legendary restaurant 1884 for dinner.
Your fourth day is spent exploring Mendoza and tasting at Zorzal Winery, emblematic of the unique terroir of Gualtallary. Lunch is a traditional Argentine-style Asado and dinner is at El Enemigo, a unique winery project linking two wine making families and created by Alejandro Vigil and Adrianna Catena. On the final day, you can relax from all your explorations with a wine spa day and lunch at Siete Fuegos (another acclaimed Mallman restaurant) before your evening flight back to Miami.
There you have it: Great food, great wine and an adventure bridging two countries with a singular passion for wine. This lot has it all!
CONDITIONS
The trip is valid between November 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020 to coincide with the peak growing and harvest season in South America.
DREAM COMES TRUE @ $20,000
Thanks to Grupo Belen
Lot 1011
CHAMPAGNE DREAMS
A wine lover’s trip to Champagne with round-trip air travel for two from Miami to Paris on American Airlines. Your trip includes two nights in Paris with a reception at the Louis Vuitton private apartment and dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Chauffered transfer from Paris to Reims, a personalized welcome at Maison Krug including a tour of the house and cellars, and lunch at the maison with a “Journey into the Krug Universe” tasting. Dinner at a Michelin two-star restaurant in Reims. A visit to nearby Épernay includes a trip to Dom Pérignon’s Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers and an exclusive Dom Pérignon tasting, lunch at the Résidence de Trianon, a private guided cellar tour and transfer back to the hotel in Reims for one night.
In life, there are few things considered more luxurious than Champagne. It is both a wine and an idea, it is the wine that goes with everything — Champagne is the stuff of fantasies. In the marvelous world of Champagne, the wine that can be simultaneously frothy and full, light and profound, two names are synonymous with the concept of “Best in the World.” Those names are Dom Pérignon and Krug. Recognized around the world, they are the epitome of luxury, quality and the celebration of history. And now, synonymous with VeritageMiami, where our friends at Moët-Hennessy have helped us craft the ultimate visit to the birthplace of bubbles.
One couple, the fortunate winners of this auction lot, will head to Paris and then on to Reims, the capital of Champagne, for an effervescent adventure, immersed in the Champagne experience. Start in the City of Lights with a stay at the Parisian Palace Hotel. During your stay, you’ll have a reception at the Louis Vuitton private apartment in the heart of the city and dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant as well as a visit at the Louis Vuitton Foundation.
After you have explored Paris (and we have plenty of tips on what to see if you need suggestions!), a chauffeur will bring you from Paris to Reims where you will visit Maison Krug, including a “Journey in the Krug Universe” tasting, a tour of the house and lunch at the maison. Later, you’ll wrap up the evening with dinner at a Michelin two-star restaurant (and definitely a glass of Champagne)! The next day, head to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers where Dom Pérignon lived and worked more than 300 years ago. You’ll have a tasting of his namesake wine, lunch at the Résidence de Trianon and a cellar tour before heading back to Reims and your hotel.
Luxury in Paris and in Champagne is certainly at the heart of this lot, but so is the passion that underlies the creation of great wine that is slowly born in the cellars of this magical region, a region you’ll come to know intimately if you are the winning bidder of this exceptional Champagne dream.
CONDITIONS
Certificate expires one year from date of auction, March 15, 2020. Winner is responsible for booking the trip and booking must be made three months in advance. All elements of this package are subject to availability and must be scheduled in advance. Round-trip air travel from Miami to Paris is provided by 440,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles (equivalent to two round-trip business air travel to Europe during nonpeak season and may vary by schedule as determined by American Airlines). Winner is responsible for any taxes, fees and gratuities. All components of this package are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and not redeemable for cash. Blackout dates may apply.
DREAM COMES TRUE @ $18,500
Thanks to American Airlines and Moët-Hennessy
Lot 1012
NAPA’S SHINING GEMS
An extraordinary collection of 12 top-level Napa cabernet sauvignons and cab-dominated blends from the last two decades, consisting of one 750ml bottle each of the following: Shrader Beckstoffer To Kalon 2001; Chateau Montelena 1997; Joseph Phelps Insignia 2013 and 2014; Joseph Phelps Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, 2013 and 2014; Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2009; Araujo Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, 2004 and 2005; and Harlan’s Bond The Maiden 2004
It’s hard today to imagine that when Robert Mondavi built his iconic Oakville winery in 1966 it was the first new winery in the Napa Valley since Prohibition began in 1919. Of course, there has been a half-century of discovery since as hundreds of winemakers discovered the magic of this exquisite, narrow swath of land. In fact, that magic is much more than the land – it is the particular slope of valley walls, the path of the wind, the direction of the light, and something esoteric that even science can’t define. Napa is the very heart and soul of the American viticulture industry and its rapid ascendance on the world wine stage.
You can trace that ascendance in this extraordinary lot. Every bottle tells a story, a chapter in a passionate saga, with a special perspective thanks to the several mini-verticals Maria and Sergio González-Arias have included. Of particular note is the pair of verticals from Joseph Phelps winery, the iconic property that pioneered the now common use of a proprietary name for a winery’s top bottling with the creation of Insignia. Phelps wanted a Bordeaux-style blend and didn’t want to be locked in to a single “recipe.” Then, with the acquisition of the stunning Backus Vineyard, he realized he could have it both ways, crafting a Bordeaux-style blend and a more traditional Napa cabernet. Gorgeous examples of both wines are represented here and you have the joyous prospect of comparing the two in both 2013 and 2014.
Also in this lot, there are mini-verticals of Araujo’s cult cabernet as well as wines from Andy Beckstoffer’s portion of the storied To Kalon vineyard, generally considered Napa Valley’s “Grand Cru,” as well as the iconic Chateau Montelena 1997, a representative bottle of Shafer Hillside Select and Bond’s The Maiden crafted by cult producer Harlan. All in all, this is a stunning collection of some of the greatest wines from the United States’ prime cabernet site, the incomparable Napa Valley.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $3,600
Thanks to Maria and Sergio González-Arias
Lot 1013
DINNER WITH THE STARS
Culinary stars Nelly and Mike Farra prepare dinner in their home for 10 wine lovers to share with vintners extraordinaire Monique and Pierre Seillan of Vérité in Sonoma, Arcanum in Tuscany and Château Lassègue in Saint-Émilion. Seats at this dinner featuring wines from all of Monique and Pierre’s properties will be offered in a Dutch auction
Nelly Farra’s cooking is already so well known to South Florida wine lovers it hardly requires a description here, though it does perhaps bear mentioning that, given her and Mike’s love of wine, her cooking is also extremely well-suited to a wine dinner. Welcome to the wine dinner of all wine dinners …
Nelly proposes a dinner to honor one of the most acclaimed and interesting winemaking teams in the world, Monique and Pierre Seillan. When Robert Parker did a retrospective of Pierre and Monique’s wines from Vérité, he gave seven of the wines a 100-point rating. And that is just one of the Seillans’ properties – years ago they have partnered with the American wine visionary Jess Jackson and now have a trio of extraordinary properties: Vérité in Sonoma that specializes in Bordeaux blends (with a special love of merlot); Arcanum Estate producing “super-Tuscan” wines in Italy; and the Seillans’ beloved home property, Château Lassègue, a grand cru estate in Saint-Émilion.
At this magical dinner, Monique and Pierre Seillan will share wines from all three estates with Nelly and Mike’s carefully crafted dinner, but the real magic goes beyond the marriage of plate and glass. The ultimate prize in this lot is the chance to have a relaxed, intimate discussion with fellow wine lovers over a wonderful meal, an opportunity to tell stories, share passions and compare notes on some of the greatest wines being made today. The stars will definitely be out and shining on this captivating evening: 10 seats are available. It’s time to get out your paddles so you too can bask in the starlight.
CONDITIONS
Dinner will be held on a mutually agreed-upon date with at least three months’ notice depending on the Seillan’s schedule. Seats will be auctioned individually in a Dutch auction.
PRICELESS
Thanks to Nelly and Mike Farra
Lot 1014
AMAZING AZAMARA
A cruise for two in an ocean view stateroom aboard Azamara Club Cruises®, anywhere Azamara sails between March 15, 2019 and March 14, 2020
That’s right – any cruise, anywhere! Award-winning Azamara Club Cruises® is known for luxurious, authentic destination experiences and a friendly, club-like feeling aboard its two 694-guest ships. With longer stays and more overnight stays on more than half of all port visits, Azamara guests enjoy rich experiences including the chance to explore local restaurants, theater, and live entertainment after sunset. Enjoy butler service, the most delectable dining on the high seas, a masterful Spa and Wellness Center, graceful accommodations, and more.
With this auction lot, you may sail on any Azamara cruise during the next year, so long as it embarks on or before March 14, 2020. Azamara’s entire world is open to you! The fortunate winner of this exciting cruise will have a firsthand opportunity to experience how Azamara is setting a new standard in luxury cruising.
CONDITIONS
This cruise is in an Ocean View stateroom for a sailing between March 14, 2019 and March 14, 2020. The certificate is subject to blackout dates, space availability and is not transferrable. The cruise may not be booked earlier than 120 days before departure and is subject to space availability. The certificate does not include airfare, gratuities, port charges or taxes nor does it include pre-cruise or post-cruise land packages. A Nonstandard Inclusion Charge (NIC) is additional and is the responsibility of the certificate recipient. Azamara Club Cruises’ NIC is $70 per person per day, and covers housekeeping, dining and bar gratuities, select standard spirits, international beers and wines at all ship bars, bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas, port shuttlebus service where available, self-service laundry and concierge services. Eligible stateroom categories for this offer are 04 to 12 inclusive. Stateroom category upgrades and third and fourth guests in the same stateroom can be booked for additional fees, based on availability, may be purchased at the winner’s expense. No commissions whatsoever shall apply to certificate bookings and/or related add-ons, including but not limited to land tours, transfers and hotels. It is recommended you wait to book air transportation until the cruise is formally confirmed.
DREAMS COME TRUE @ $8,000
Thanks to Azamara Club Cruises®
Lot 1015
FABIO COOKS!
Our Interactive Dinner celebrity chef Fabio Trabocchi of Fiola Miami will cook dinner in your home for up to 12 guests, with wines supplied by Zonin 1821
We have to say, this auction lot should be a no-brainer for all food lovers. You’ve been feasting all night on the culinary creations of our guest chef Fabio Trabocchi, and now you have the opportunity to have this culinary giant cook for you in your home. True, tonight you have had to do most of the cooking, but when chef Trabocchi comes to cook in your home all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the evening. Of course, if you want to help out and pick up a few tips along the way, that would be fine, too!
The many wineries of the Zonin 1821 family will contribute classic Italian sparkling, white and red wines for your evening, the perfect vehicles for you to celebrate la bella cucina and to relive the excitement of VeritageMiami!
CONDITIONS
Dinner is to be held on a mutually agreed-upon date, and should be booked with chef Trabocchi (who divides his time between Miami and Washington, D.C.) at least two months in advance.
PRICELESS
Thanks to Chef Fabio Trabocchi and Zonin 1821
Interactive Dinner ‘Almost’ Live Auctions
Lot 3001
A RARE TOAST
An exclusive in-home tasting for 8 to 14 people of Piper-Heidsieck Rare prestige cuvée Champagne vintage 2002 from a magnum, presented by brand ambassador Jonathan Boulangeat
Piper-Heidsieck Rare is rare indeed, one of the most acclaimed of Champagne’s exalted prestige cuvées, a wine that, at age 17 is still youthful and vibrantly fresh. You and a group of friends will share the amazing Rare experience with the wonderfully entertaining Rare brand ambassador Jonathan Boulangeat, who will pour the wine from a magnum and toast you on your excellent choice of the start to a great evening, the end of a great evening, or simply a bubbly moment. When and how you choose to uncork your winning lot is up to you!
CONDITIONS
Must be scheduled in advance on a mutually agreed-upon date.
Value $3,000
Thanks to Champagne Piper-Heidsieck
Lot 3002
WINE ESSENTIALS – SINE QUA NON
Three 750ml bottles from ultra-cult producer Sine Qua Non: one 2003 Papa California Syrah, one 2008 The Line Grenache, one 2016 Deux Grenouilles White Wine
Few wines are as widely admired and universally hard to find as those crafted by winemaker Mandred Krankl at Sine Qua Non. Krankl loves to emulate classic wines of the Rhône: the syrah and grenache are self-explanatory while the white is an unusual blend of mostly chardonnay, roussanne and viognier (and rated 97 points by Jeb Dunnuck). These highly collectible wines, aged in perfect conditions in Sue Gallagher’s cellar, offer an extraordinary drinking experience and have an average rating of 96 points.
Value $1,150
Thanks to Sue Gallagher
Lot 3003
CHAMPION CHARDONNAY
Twelve 750ml bottles of Kistler McCrea-Ahern Estate 2005 Chardonnay
It would give many wine lovers pause to see a chardonnay from 2005, until they see the winemaker is Steve Kistler. Steve has been making wine since 1976 when he started working at Ridge before opening his own winery in 1978. That’s 41 years of experience he has in crafting stunning chardonnay that lives for a very long time. “I have always respected and been a student of the work that has been done before us in the vineyards and cellars of Burgundy,” he says, and no one crafts better New World wines with Burgundian inspiration. Robert Parker says of this particular wine, “It is wines like these that keep an old critic like me inspired and energized.” These wines are mature but not overly so – Kistler’s wines last for 20 years. This chardonnay from the McCrea-Ahern estate are luscious to drink and enjoy and a prize for any collector of fine wine.
Value $1,200
Thanks to Mark Hicks
Lot 3004
MORE THAN MAGNUMS
Three 3-liter bottles from Napa, including one each of 1996 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 1997 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and 1997 Dominus
These three magnificent bottles each just celebrated its 21st birthday and, in this large format where wines age more slowly, they are drinking beautifully. Silver Oak Napa Valley is the quintessential Napa cabernet sauvignon aged in American oak, while the Beringer Private reserve has a bit of a French accent in the classic 1996 vintage. And Dominus? This trailblazing international collaboration between Napa know-how and Bordeaux savoir-faire is one of the great wines of the lush, near-perfect 1997 vintage.
Value $3,000
Thanks to Maria and Sergio González-Arias
Lot 3005
PICHON PERFECTION
One bottle of 2006 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande and six 750ml bottles of 2001 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande
One of the greatest of the Médoc “Super Seconds,” Château Pichon Lalande (its much less cumbersome title) is a marvelous example of the power of the Pauillac commune, moderated by a considerable level of finesse. In any vintage, Pichon Lalande is known for its sensuous textures, deep concentrated layers of ripe fruit and a haunting bouquet filled with earth, tobacco and cassis. It is quintessential Bordeaux, and in this lot you have it in two complimentary guises. The six bottles from the 2001 vintage are ready to drink now (and will last for another decade), while the gorgeous large-format bottle can be enjoyed now or kept for many years to come. The bottle is on its way directly from the Château cellar and will be delivered to you as soon as it arrives in late March.
Value $3,000
Thanks to Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande and Christopher Zoller
Lot 3006
CAPTIVATING COLGIN
Three 750ml bottles of Colgin 2009 Tychson Hill Cabernet in the original wood case, purchased on release from Colgin
No discussion of California cult wines takes place without a significant bit of attention being paid to these wines crafted by Ann Colgin, her longtime winemaker Allison Tauziet and vineyard manager David Abreau. The Tychson Hill Vineyard Cabernet has never scored less than 95 points with major critics and 2009 is a classic vintage of this highly collectible wine. Ann Colgin says it is, “loaded with earthy notes of mineral, talc and gravel.” She considers it, “super-rich and definitely brooding, [a wine with] a lot of stamina.”
Value $1,200
Thanks to Dr. Kate Callahan and Peter Benjamin
Lot 3007
CAPTIVATING COLGIN TOO
Three 750ml bottles of Colgin 2012 IX Estate Syrah in the original wood case, purchased on release from Colgin
Ann Colgin, her longtime winemaker Allison Tauziet and vineyard manager David Abreau focus on just a few wines, all red and all highly treasured by collectors. The 2012 IX Estate Syrah is a classic vintage of this wine, and Robert Parker, James Suckling and Vinous all gave the wine a 98-point rating. Parker pointed out that, perhaps because of the tiny production (350 cases) the wine gets overlooked, which he found very unfair. Here’s your chance to get in under the radar on the most highly rated syrah produced in California!
Value $1,000
Thanks to Dr. Kate Callahan and Peter Benjamin
Lot 3008
SEEING RED
Twelve 750ml bottles of wine, including two each of the following: 1985 B.R. Cohn Cabernet Sauvignon Olive Hill Estate, 2008 Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard Bordeaux blend, 2008 Moone-Tsai Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008 Joseph Phelps Insignia, 2009 Caldwell Rocket Science red blend, 2013 Devil Proof Malbec
Here’s an eclectic collection of West Coast reds that will please any collector. They come from Jeffrey Miller’s pristine cellar, and span a good amount of red wine territory, from Andrew Will’s exciting Washington red blend from Horse Heaven Hills to Joseph Phelps’ iconic Napa Valley progenitor of the blend category, Insignia. In between, we have a mature Sonoma cabernet sauvignon from the exceptional 1985 vintage (B.R. Cohn) to more recent upstarts like Moone-Tsai’s Napa cab, a malbec from Devil Proof and Caldwell’s Rocket Science red blend. It’s a collection that will have any wine lover happily seeing red.
Value $1,200
Thanks to Jeffrey Miller
Lot 3009
A HIGHLAND FLING
Two nights for two at Glenmorangie House, home of the iconic single malt whisky. Stay includes lodging, all meals including a traditional Highland supper, a VIP distillery tour and tasting, a Loch Ness cruise, clay pigeon shooting and ground transportation including airport transfers from Inverness.
This is the ideal auction lot for a whisky lover – two glorious days and nights in the Scottish Highlands at one of the most famous distilleries in the world. And yes, there will be more than a wee dram of that great whisky available to you – you’ll be sleeping near the barrels after all! As we say in Scotland, Slàinte (that’s “cheers” to everyone else).
CONDITIONS
To be arranged at a mutually agreed-upon date and based on availability.
Value $3,000
Thanks to Moët-Hennessy USA
Lot 3010
CRUISING IN ROYAL STYLE
Six to eight-night Caribbean cruise for two people in an interior or ocean view stateroom aboard any Royal Caribbean Cruises vessel, except those in their inaugural first year of sailing
Come explore the Caribbean! No one knows the Caribbean better than the cruise line that has Caribbean as its middle name! With this certificate you can take a seven-day Caribbean cruise practically any time and enjoy the full Royal Caribbean treatment.
CONDITIONS
This cruise must be booked in at least seven days before departure and is subject to space availability. It is valid for any 6- to 8-day Caribbean cruise. It is not available on ships in their first 365 days in service. Upgrades may be purchased. The cruise certificate does not include air, and there are certain blackout dates that apply, including specific holidays and the period June 15 – August 15. The certificate is applicable to new bookings only and has no expiration date.
Value $2,500
Thanks to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
Lot 3011
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/EMMY AWARD-WINNER JOHN QUIÑONES IN NEW YORK CITY
A visit to the set of the hit ABC television show ‘What Would You Do?’
This exclusive experience for two begins with a visit to a “live set” during the filming of an episode of the hit ABC show What Would You Do? You will be the guests of John Quiñones, Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist and host of the program, as you get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the magic of television. Who knows, you might even be part of the show! The program’s success inspired John to write What Would You Do? Words of Wisdom About Doing the Right Thing, in which he shares stories from his colorful life – from his humble beginnings and his time covering war-torn nations and interviewing dictators to the creation and incredible success of the television program. An autographed copy of the book is included in this lot.
CONDITIONS
Certificate expires December, 2020. To be arranged at a mutually agreed upon time during the show’s New York filming schedule. Airfare not included.
Value $1,000
Thanks to Nicco and John Quiñones
Lot 3012
A MOVING STILL LIFE
‘Still Life in Stone,’ signed, framed limited edition serigraph (Number 31/100) by artist Humberto Calzada plus an autographed copy of the hardcover retrospective of Calzada’s work
Humberto Calzada was born in Cuba and came to the United States in 1960 to pursue his education and a career in engineering. By 1976 he gave up engineering altogether to focus on his artistic pursuits. In his many acclaimed works, he shows the engineer’s fascination with structure, and often uses his art to portray the colonial architecture of his native Cuba and of the Caribbean as well as the impermanence of buildings. This lot also includes an autographed retrospective hardcover book of Calzada’s work.
Value $1,800
Thanks to Humberto Calzada
Lot 3013
WINE MEETS QUALITY MEATS
Two tickets to a private dinner at Quality Meats in Miami Beach featuring the wines of Arietta, on March 22, 2019
The combination of the ebullient pianist/winemaker Fritz Hatton (for many years our lead auctioneer at VeritageMiami) and numerous vintages of his rare (one certainly could say cult) wine Arietta is harmony on a cosmic level. Fritz is hosting this dinner at Quality Meats for a very limited audience and we’ve secured two tickets. Dinner comes up in a week, so make sure you bid now to secure a space for a great dinner with phenomenal wine and great conversation with Fritz Hatton.
Value $1,000
Thanks to Arietta Wines, Fritz Hatton and Quality Meats
Lot 3014
THE BEST OF TUSCANY
Six 750-ml bottles of Tuscan super-stars, including one each of Antinori Solaia 2010, Antinori Tignanello 2015, Soldera Case Basse 2009, Le Macciolo Paleo 2014, Ornellaia 2013 and Sassicaia 2015
Since Sassicaia and Tignanello ushered in the “super-Tuscan” wine revolution, there have been many wines that have vied for the title of the truly super Tuscan. These six wines are the greatest contenders, and each is represented in an extraordinary vintage. Wonderful what is fabulous in Tuscany (besides the food, the art, the culture …) look no further than these six bottles that capture the very best of Tuscany.
Value $1,700
Thanks to Sunset Corners Fine Wines & Spirits
Lot 3015
OPULENT ORNAMENTS
- 3015A: 18K Gold Necklace with 12.52 carat Green Agate and Black Diamond 0.4 carats
VALUE $2,900 - 3015B: 18K Gold Earrings with Green Agate weighing 28.44 carats and Black Diamonds 0.64 carats
VALUE $4,200 - 3015C: 8K Rose Gold Bangle with Hematite weighing19.37 carats
and Mother Pearl D-0.33 carats
VALUE $4,475 - 3015D: 18K Rose Gold Earrings with Hematite weighing17.71 carats and Mother Pearl/Dia 1.17 carats
VALUE $5,800 - 3015E: 18k Yellow Gold Amazonite Necklace 9.85 carats/Diamond .27
VALUE $2,800 - 3015F: 18k Yellow Gold Amazonite Ring 4.76 carats/Diamond .38 carats
VALUE $2,800
Thanks to Montica Jewelry