Naples Winter Wine Festival 2016 – Your guide to the season’s hottest soiree!

The Naples Winter Wine Festival is ranked among the top 10 arts and entertainment events for wealthy Americans, and has earned the distinction from Wine Spectator, of being one of the most successful charity wine auction in the nation!  This exclusive three day event takes place this weekend from Friday January 29th to Sunday, January 31st. On Saturday, the main event of the 16th annual Naples Winter Wine Festival will take place under the tent at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples, Florida. Only 580 spots are available with tickets starting at $10,000 per couple.

Vintners

More than 40 Vintners have been invited to participate in this year’s Winter Wine Festival from 13 wine regions, 8 countries and 3 continents bringing the best in the industry. Who has received the Honored Vintner title this year? Emily & Paul Michael of Peter Michael Winery in Calistoga, California.

Chefs

24 Celebrity Chef’s will join in the celebration, including Brian Boitano, former Olympic figure skater and current Host of the Food Network’s “What Would Brian Boitano Make?   What makes the wine festival so much fun and unique? The fact that these top Chef’s are invited to whip up their signature dishes in the lavish homes throughout Naples who are hosting private dinner parties.

 Naples Winter Wine Festival Event Schedule

Vintage Cellar – Wine Tasting and Luncheon

Thursday, January 28, 2016, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Educational Tasting
Leading the celebration will be Steven Spurrier, a Brit and then Parisian wine merchant, who in 1976 created and hosted this legendary blind tasting.  This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the wine event of the 20th century, which many credit as the launching of the California wine movement.

Meet the Kids Day Tour & Luncheon

Friday, January 29, 2016, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Departs from The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples
Experience firsthand how funds raised at the Festival better the lives of underprivileged and at-risk children. You will have the opportunity to meet several children’s charities and interact with the children who have limitless opportunities due to your generosity.

A Look in the Lot Room

Friday, January 29th, 2016, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. – The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, Tiburón Ballroom – 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109
Get a sneak preview of Saturday’s auction items at our newest weekend activity – A Look in the Lot Room.

Vintner Dinners

Friday, January 29th, 2016, Evenings (Times Vary)
Enjoy an intimate, exclusive private dining experience at one of sixteen elegant homes in Naples. Each dinner is illuminated by the expertise of a renowned vintner and the culinary talents of one of the world’s greatest chefs.

2016 Naples Winter Wine Festival Auction

Saturday, January 30, 2016, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. – The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples – 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109
The sky’s the limit when the bidding begins at Naples’ world-class wine auction, held at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort. Set on the Grand Lawn of The Ritz, lunch will showcase the culinary talents of The Ritz-Carlton’s chefs as they prepare Florida’s freshest and finest cuisine, paired with the best wines from around the world.

Wine Down Event

Saturday, January 30, 2016, Immediately following the Auction – The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples – 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples FL 34109
Carry on the day’s festive mood at the after-auction party. This fun, laid-back affair will be the perfect antidote to the gavel-to-gavel excitement. Unbelievable wines, casual food and live music will beckon guests to kick back, celebrate auction wins and enjoy friendships created during the weekend.

Celebration Brunch

Sunday, January 31, 2016, 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples – 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109
End this extraordinary weekend at the farewell celebration brunch.

Fun Wine Festival Facts

Proceeds from the festival benefit the Naples Children & Education Foundation. Since its inception in 2001, the Naples Winter Wine Festival has raised more than $135 million for children in need.