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3rd Annual Galentines Day Fundraiser

We’re pleased to announce that our 3rd Annual Galentine’s Day Fundraiser raised a record-breaking $113,000 for young women in need in Northwest Florida! The amount raised is a $20,500 increase over the previous year’s event. Hosted on Saturday, February 3 by DCWAF trustee Candis Wilson and DCWAF board members Tiffany Edwards, Jeanne Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 11, 2024

DCWAF Sommelier, Brooklyn Bain's Top Picks for New Year's Eve Bubbles

As many of you know, my philosophy is that bubbles are for every occasion, but especially for New Year's Eve. There's no better way to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new than with a delicious glass of sparkling wine. I also recently read that there are over 2 million bubbles in a glass of Champagne…so it's practically air, which is good... Continue reading

Published on Monday, December 18, 2023

Ways to Give: Supporting Dcwaf This Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to join us in spreading joy and goodwill by helping children in need in Northwest Florida. There are many ways to get involved with us throughout the year, all of which benefit our 17 local charity partners who work tirelessly to serve kids in our community.    Join us for One of our Wine and Continue reading

Published on Monday, December 4, 2023

DCWAF Sommelier, Brooklyn Bain's Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Recommendations

With Thanksgiving approaching, it's time to look at versatile wines with pairing options and tastebuds! If your family is anything like mine, there will be many palates and preferences. It's hard to please everyone, but this list to build a mixed case will help get you there. There is something for everyone: comfortable and familiar, adventurous Continue reading

Published on Monday, November 13, 2023

Helpful Bidding Strategies For Harvest Wine and Food Festival Weekend

Get ready to dust off your virtual paddles because the 7 th Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival auction opens October 19 at 9am! To help you prepare to bid high and bid often, we put together a list of bidding strategies for this weekend’s event:   Choose Your Favorite Lots - Stay ahead of the game and figure out which lots are your favorite Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Talent Spotlight: Headlining Vintners and Spirits at the 7th Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival

Prepare to embark on a journey through the world of fine wines and spirits with an exceptional lineup of vintners and spirits at the 7th Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival, set to take place from October 19th through 22nd in the enchanting surroundings of WaterColor. This event promises to be a haven for oenophiles and spirits enthusiasts alike Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Team Spotlight: Brooklyn Bain, Director of Events & Beverage

Our Director of Events & Beverage, Brooklyn Bain’s birthday is August 22nd and we want to take a moment to share a little about her journey and experience at DCWAF as we celebrate her and another great trip around the sun.   After graduating from Louisiana Tech University with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and Photography, Brooklyn Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Introducing Harvest After Dark

This year’s event brings a new spin to a past festival favorite, Al Fresco Reserve Tasting. Harvest After Dark offers a lively yet upscale ambiance, inviting a limited crowd to indulge in an evening of elevated wines, unlikely pairings, and culinary delights crafted by talented celebrity chefs from across the southeast on Friday, October 20 starting... Continue reading

Published on Friday, August 4, 2023

Cocktails are Better Together: Spotlight on Harvest Headliner Christine Tarpey

A Florida native, Tarpey decided to take her love for beverages on the road and fine-tune her skills in the big city lights such as Las Vegas and Dallas. During her travels, she worked under many Master Sommeliers, celebrity chefs, and other beverage professionals, propelling her into a life full of beverage exploration. She soon realized that her passion... Continue reading

Published on Sunday, July 23, 2023

Best 4th of July Food Pairings with Sparkling Wine

It's almost Independence Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a crisp bottle of bubbly? Traditional 4th of July fair can be the perfect complement for the acidity and effervescence of sparkling wines. Read on for some of our favorite 4th of July pairings!   Gruet Blanc de Noirs This sparkling wine features tasty aromas, a meat-worthy Continue reading

Published on Monday, July 3, 2023

Cheers to Charity! $3.5 Million Raised For Children In Need in Northwest Florida!

The 18th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction presented by the Jumonville Family raised $3.5 million for children in need in Northwest Florida!  Hosted on April 28th and 29th to a sold-out crowd of more than 600 guests, proceeds of the auction benefit our 16 partner charities in Northwest Florida. The auction weekend kicked off on Friday, with 11 Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Partner Charity Spotlight: Emerald Coast Autism Center

The Emerald Coast Autism Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and improve the lives of individuals with autism and other unique abilities in Okaloosa and surrounding cities. Their goal is to connect every learner to a brighter future. We are proud to call them one of our partner children’s charities, and we want to highlight... Continue reading

Published on Thursday, May 4, 2023

Helpful Bidding Strategies For Auction Weekend

Dust off your paddles, our 18th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction presented by the Jumonville Family is almost here! To help you prepare to bid high and bid often, we put together a list of bidding strategies for the big weekend under the tent. Plan Your Travel Groups Pre-plan your travel groups before the bidding begins as many of our lots include Continue reading

Published on Friday, April 14, 2023

Best Nontraditional Wine and Food Pairings

Looking for some nontraditional wine and food pairings to shake up your routine? More often than not, if you’ve got a good bottle of wine, it’ll taste great with just about anything! Let’s dive into some of our favorite nontraditional wine and food pairings. Riesling and Birthday Cake Riesling has a crisp, citrus bite that is just Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 13, 2023

Partner Charity Spotlight: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is a non-profit organization whose mission is to enable all young people, especially those that need them most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. The goal is to connect as many youths as possible with unique opportunities and activities that promote academic success Continue reading

Published on Thursday, March 2, 2023

Our Favorite Wine Pairings for Valentine's Day

Looking for the perfect wine pairings to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved ones? We’re happy to share some of our favorite wines and the delicious food you could pair them with to celebrate the occasion.   2021 Reserve Chardonnay Reynolds Family Winery ’s first ever barrel fermented Chardonnay is their most complex and Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Sponsor Spotlight: The Jumonville Family

In celebration of Ryan Jumonville’s birthday, we want to highlight the philanthropic support we have received from him and the Jumonville Family.   In 2019, Ryan D. Jumonville and his family made history by donating $1 million to Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, marking the largest single donation since our inception. In honor of this Continue reading

Published on Friday, January 20, 2023

2nd Annual Galentines Day Fundraiser

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is hosting its second annual Galentine’s Day Fundraiser on February 4th, 2023, at the home of Candis Wilson.    Hosted by DCWAF trustee Candis Wilson and DCWAF board members Tiffany Edwards, Jeanne Dailey, and Lane Redding, the event brings influential women in the community together to support Continue reading

Published on Friday, January 13, 2023

The Season of Giving

  The holiday season has arrived, and what better way to celebrate it than by giving back to charities that are doing important work for the children in our community? Our 16 children's charities offer a variety of programs and services that benefit youth in our area, including those afflicted by health issues and abuse. Peruse the different charities Continue reading

Published on Friday, December 9, 2022

Team Spotlight: Karah Fridley-Young, President

December 4 is our President, Karah Fridley-Young’s birthday, and we want to take a moment to share a little about her journey and vision for DCWAF as we celebrate her and another great trip around the sun.  After graduating Auburn University with a degree focusing on early childhood development and nonprofit management, Karah joined the Destin Continue reading

Published on Friday, December 2, 2022

DCWAF Doubles Goal, Raising $64,000 at the Inaugural Galentine’s Day Fundraiser

  Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, the nation’s premier fundraising organization, raised more than $64,000 at their inaugural Galentine’s Day Fundraiser on February 5th, 2022! Hosted by DCWAF board members Tiffany Edwards, Jeanne Dailey, and Lane Redding at the home of Tiffany Edwards, the Galentine’s Day Fundraiser brought Continue reading

Published on Monday, November 21, 2022

Board of Directors Names Karah Fridley-Young President of DCWAF following John Russell's Retirement

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the nation’s premier fundraising organizations, announces the retirement of President John Russell after more than 10 exemplary years of service to the organization. Under his leadership, DCWAF has grown from a grassroots organization to the third largest charity wine auction as ranked by& Continue reading

Published on Monday, July 25, 2022

Texas-style Barbecue Meets Modern Italian Cuisine at this year's Harvest Wine & Food Festival

For the first time ever, long-time DCWAF supporter, Chef Craig Richards is teaming up with Harvest Wine & Food Festival veterans Jonathan and Justin Fox to bring their Atlanta-based culinary concepts together for a unique tasting experience at the beach. Our friends at Good Grit Magazine sat down to get to know the men behind the famous cuisine.  Continue reading

Published on Monday, October 25, 2021

Meet the Harvest Headliners: Cast Wines

Why did CAST Wines decide to participate in this event? My wife Ann and I have many friends with homes in the Florida panhandle and we have been visiting for years. We love the laid back lifestyle and the focus on good food and wine. The DCWAF does great things for the community and we are fortunate to have an ability to participate and contribute to Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Meet the Harvest Headliners: Chef Maricela Vega

Maricela Vega is one to watch. She's the Culinary Director at Chico, based in Atlanta, and a James Beard Rising Star nominee. She's also the celebrity chef at our Harvest Wine & Food Festival Black Sheep Tequila Dinner on Friday, November 5.  Q: What made you want to participate in the festival? A; The idea of supporting an organization Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Better Together Beverage: Meet the Woman Behind the Cocktails

Meet Christine Tarpey, Beverage Curator How did Better Together Beverage get started?  The idea first came to me when I was listening to Venus Williams speak at a Create & Cultivate Summit in Miami. I knew that I wanted to continue improving the beverage offerings in our beach community and that I wanted to involve local charities and businesses Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Meet the Harvest Headliners: Purlieu

1. Why did Purlieu decide to participate in this event? We love our friends and colleagues at the Destin Charity Wine Auction. They are devoted to supporting the local community by making a real impact with the funds raised at the auction. We are participating in the upcoming Harvest event because we believe in giving back to local communities and Continue reading

Published on Thursday, July 22, 2021

Meet the Harvest Headliners: Roy Estate

Nestled at the foothills of the Vaca Mountains, Roy Estate focuses on the quality of their wine over the quantity. The dedication to their craft is noticeable in every sip. They will be pouring their wine at Roy Estate Celebrity Winemaker Dinner at Cuvee 30A on November 4th at 6pm. 1 . Why did Roy Estate decide to participate in this event? Roy Estate Continue reading

Published on Thursday, July 22, 2021

Meet the Chef: Adam Evans of Automatic Seafood

Automatic Seafood & Oysters opened in Birmingham in 2019, and it wasn’t long before it became a local favorite. Originally from Muscle Shoals, Chef Adam Evans’ path in the hospitality industry took him across the country before Automatic opened its doors back in his home state—but it all started with his family vacations to the Gulf Coast as a child... Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Harvest Dinner Line-Up Revealed

The Harvest Wine & Food Festival is just a couple of months away! The festival, held in South Walton on November 4-7 in the beautiful WaterColor community, brings together incredible chefs and winemakers. Experience the delightful pairings at the exclusive Vintner Dinners—we are excited to share the details with you! Thursday Dinners, November 4th Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, July 7, 2021

First Timer’s Guide to Harvest: 4 Tips Before you Sip

Have you ever been able to drink wine while also helping a great cause? If not, the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is hosting their 5th annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival November 4-6, 2021. If you are thinking about taking part in this incredible weekend, tickets go on sale in July, and this is not something you want to miss. If this is Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Ways to Watch the 2021 Live Auction Broadcast

It's almost time to celebrate our 16th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction presented by the Jumonville Family, and we hope you are gearing up to bid high and often for children in need in Northwest Florida. We will be broadcasting the live auction presentation  beginning at 4pm CDT on Saturday, April 24. The live auction will open at 9am Saturday... Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, April 20, 2021

16 Years for 16 Charities

The premier fundraising event of the season is back for its 16th installment April 23-24, 2021. Keeping the safety of our participants a top priority, DCWAF has chosen a modified format for the 16th Annual Auction that revives some of the weekend’s most popular activities while maintaining virtual bidding that was shown successful during 2020’s Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, January 12, 2021

San Francisco Chronicle: A running list of Napa Valley wineries that have been damaged or destroyed

The Glass Fire erupted on September 27 and has moved rapidly across northern Napa Valley, burning structures at some of the region’s most celebrated wineries. The Chronicle’s wine critic Esther Mobley is on the ground and talking to locals this week to track how vineyards and wineries have fared. Already, destruction to the local wine industry far exceeds... Continue reading

Published on Thursday, October 8, 2020

Supporting Our Supporters: Giving Back to Wine Country After the Glass Fire

While the Glass Fire continues to burn across California, over 20 wineries in Napa and Sonoma have been damaged or lost; many of them being close supporters of Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. DCWAF and sponsors are joining together to give back to those that have been affected by the fires. We have created a new donation link that will directly Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Benefiting DCWAF: Bijoux Sales Match on Fri, August 21

Dine in or order from Bijoux on Friday, August 21 and one of our generous supporters will match the total restaurant sales from the evening in a donation to DCWAF. The auction team will be there toasting to the next day's virtual auction! Reservations are recommended. Call 850-622-0760 to reserve directly with Bijoux.   Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Benefiting DCWAF: Stock Your Cellar with Revana

Stock up on Revana best-seller 2017 St Helena Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and a portion of the proceeds will be donated back to DCWAF. Learn More Email Pat Ladd at [email protected] or by clicking the order button below. 10% of all purchases will be donated to DCWAF.   Order Now   Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Benefiting DCWAF: Create Your "Auction At Home" Experience with Wine World

Our friends at Wine World are generously donating back a portion of all proceeds on select items when you show this email or bring a copy of the below form to the Destin or Grand Boulevard locations. Now through August 21, stock up on everything you need to to enjoy the live auction broadcast from the comfort of your own home. Simply dowload and print Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Benefiting DCWAF: An Evening of Beauty

Generous sponsor and board member Dr. Michael Stickler and his team at Aqua Medical Spa invite you to an Evening of Beauty on August 27 from 11am - 1:30pm. Appointments are required and proceeds will benefit DCWAF and our mission of helping children in need.  To make an appointment, please call Aqua Medical Spa at 850-608-3050. More Information Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Meet David Bancroft: Harvest Food & Wine Festival

“I enjoy good humor. In an industry that normally appears militant, I like to keep it fresh and fun. Happy cooks make happy food!” Meet the talented Chef David Bancroft of Auburn’s Acre and Bow + Arrow. You can chat with Chef Bancroft and try some of his incredible dishes at the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting at Harvest Wine & Food Festival October 25! He Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Meet Jonathan Fox: Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q returns to Harvest Wine & Food Festival

Meet the ever-talented Atlanta-based pit master Jonathan Fox of Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q. You can chat with Jonathan and Justin (and try some of their incredible barbecue) at the Harvest Wine & Food Festival Grand Tasting this October! Did we mention that they were the official barbecue of last year’s Super Bowl?  What’s your most unique trait? We opened Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Meet Kaley Laird: Harvest Wine & Food Festival Celebrity Chef

“My most proud accomplishments are those that have worked under me growing and are succeeding now on their own.” Meet the talented Chef Kaley Laird of Asheville’s famous The Rhu, Rhubarb, and Benne on Eagle. You can chat with Chef Kaley and try some of her incredible pastries at the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting and Grand Tasting at Harvest Wine & Food Festival Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Meet Kristen Farmer Hall: Harvest Wine & Food Festival

“The Essential was named as such because we wanted to be an everyday part of life in downtown Birmingham - an all-day cafe that was essential to your day.” Meet Chef Kristen Farmer Hall, owner of Birmingham’s hottest new café, The Essential. You can meet Chef Kristen and try some of her incredible pastries at the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting and in Continue reading

Published on Monday, September 16, 2019

Meet Sam Jones: Harvest Wine & Food Festival

“I’ve never thought of or considered myself a chef. I am a man that simply realized that what my family had done for generations was something special.”  Meet pitmaster Sam Jones of Sam Jones BBQ and the famous Skylight Inn in North Carolina. Sam will be smoking up a whole hog at this year’s Harvest Wine & Food Festival and can be found at the Continue reading

Published on Friday, September 13, 2019

Best Beach Wines

The sunshine, warm weather, and beach days are here! With our gorgeous white sands and emerald waters on the horizon, we know that there is not a better way to enjoy the warm breeze of the Emerald Coast as spring rolls us into summer than with a crisp glass of vino in your hand. And if you are not at the beach? Close your eyes and take a sip of wine... Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 26, 2018

Chef Spotlight: Scotty Schwartz

Scotty Schwartz, the owner and executive chef of 29 South in Jacksonville, Florida, always knew he loved cooking, but for years never considered it anything more than a hobby. As a child, he helped his mother in the kitchen and became passionate about what he could create. It wasn’t until he started studying psychology and Spanish literature at the Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 19, 2018

Vintner Spotlight: Todd Newman of Dakota Shy

Dakota Shy, currently located in the heart of Napa Valley at the base of Pritchard Hill, dates back to the 1850’s. With beautiful redwood and magnolia trees scattered throughout the estate and 1.2 acres of both Italian and Spanish olives (from which Dakota Shy presses their own oil), they are known for their stunning views and expansive history. Grapes... Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 12, 2018

Charity Spotlight: Boys & Girls Club

Originally founded in 1968, the Boys & Girls Club has dramatically grown and expanded over the years into the amazing organization it is today. With their drive and belief that every child has the potential to be great, they provide seven safe, positive neighborhood Clubs along the Emerald Coast with school and summer programs for children between the... Continue reading

Published on Monday, March 5, 2018

Chef Spotlight: Matthew Basford

Matthew Basford began his culinary journey growing up in Australia and absorbing techniques and influences from Pan-Asian cuisine. From his very first restaurant job in his teens, Matthew knew he was destined for a career in the world of restaurants and cuisine. He started his culinary journey at Pear Tree Cottage in Greenock, followed by Vintner’s Continue reading

Published on Monday, February 19, 2018

Vintner Spotlight: Ted Henry of Clos Du Val

Located in the Stag’s Leap district of Napa Valley, Clos du Val Winery was established in 1972 by two French winemakers, John Goelet and Bernard Portet. Covering 350 acres in California, Clos du Val has been known since its inception for its exceptional productions of Pinot Noirs, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Chardonnays. At the heart of the wine production Continue reading

Published on Monday, February 12, 2018

Charity Spotlight: Emerald Coast Autism Center

The Emerald Coast Autism Center (ECAC) was founded in 2009 as the first large scale non-profit in the Okaloosa and Walton counties to fill a growing need for an educational and therapeutic resource for children with autism. With autism affecting 1 in 68 children in the United States, the importance of having an environment to improve the lives of these... Continue reading

Published on Monday, February 5, 2018

Vintner Spotlight: Anthony and Olive Russell of Hamilton Russell Vineyards

Hamilton Russell Vineyards is one of the closest vineyards to the sea in the southern wine estates of Africa. Having pioneered viticulture and winemaking just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus, Hamilton Russell utilizes the cool climates of South Africa and Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to produce what are widely considered the best wines in South Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Punts and Pinot

A tradition lasting over 50 years, Super Bowl Sunday serves as the peak night of America’s enjoyment of football. Whether your team is on the field in their bright uniforms or you’re just watching for the commercial breaks, everyone enjoys the food at a Super Bowl party! Typically for fried, bold, and spicy snacks, the assumed beverage of choice tends... Continue reading

Published on Sunday, January 28, 2018

Chef Spotlight: Craig Richards

Craig Richards, renowned Executive Chef at St. Cecilia restaurant and VP of Culinary Operations of Ford Fry Restaurants, did not always set out to be a chef. While studying creative writing in graduate school, Craig picked up a job washing dishes for a local restaurant to earn extra money. It was there that his interest in the profession was piqued. Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 18, 2018

Vintner Spotlight: Champagne Delamotte and Salon

Located in the illustrious Cote Des Blancs area of northeast France, Champagne Delamotte has been a benchmark wine producer since 1780. With wines described as discrete yet present, heady but not heavy, they are known for creating a light, impertinent champagne perfect for any occasion. Producing Bruts, Blancs de Blancs, and Rosé, their luxurious... Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 4, 2018

Charity Spotlight: AMIkids

“Separating a troubled past from a bright future” is the vision that AMIkids Emerald Coast works towards every day. Located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, this nonprofit is dedicated to helping kids transform their lives by discovering the potential within themselves, providing care and guidance to help them achieve their goals, and breaking the cycle Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 4, 2018

Bottles and Blessings

Thanksgiving Day: everyone’s favorite food and family focused holiday that leaves you feeling happy and “stuffed” after delectable servings of turkey, gravy, and casseroles. With traditional menu items well established year after year, you know what should be served on your plate, but do you know what should go in your glass? Your most popular main course Continue reading

Published on Thursday, November 16, 2017

Vintner Spotlight: Alycia Mondavi at Harvest Wine & Food Festival

With so many friends and supporters to boast about, we are especially excited to have Alycia Mondavi of C. Mondavi & Family joining us this fall for the Inaugural Harvest Food and Wine Festival in efforts to fundraise for our 15 local children’s charity beneficiaries.  Mondavi has become a household name since the Napa family began operating in Continue reading

Published on Monday, September 11, 2017

Wine Down at WaterColor: Harvest Wine & Food Festival

You may know Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation for our multi-million dollar fundraising auction in April, from our #3 ranking in Wine Spectator Magazine for “Top Charity Wine Auctions in the US,” or from one of the local children’s charities we raise funds to help support. You may know us from our generous supporters, or from the delectable wine Continue reading

Published on Thursday, August 17, 2017

Special from Proffitt PR: Harvest Wine & Food Festival

Calling all wine lovers! Proffitt PR is proud to announce we’ve joined forces with Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation as a media sponsor of their new festival coming to the Emerald Coast. Harvest Wine and Food Festival will provide patrons the opportunity to sip and savor some of the world’s finest wine and culinary selections while Continue reading

Published on Thursday, July 20, 2017

Charity Spotlight: 2016 In Review

Over the past year, DCWAF's Charity Partners have made some amazing strides in helping our community's children. There are so many wonderful services and programs in place and our charities are continously expanding. We could not be more proud! Here are some of the highlights of 2016. Children in Crisis Inc. (CIC) opened the Ty Autry Pennington Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 12, 2017

Pop-Up. Fizz. Clink.

Do you love surprises? How about the suspense of not knowing where you're going or what you'll see? Do you find yourself letting others order for you when you're out to dinner? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you'll love pop-up dinners! This creative concept is developed around the element of surprise. Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Glasses Full of Gratitude

It's finally that wonderful time of year when a brisk wind tickles your nose and the leaves have begun to turn. We each have a lot to be thankful for, including wine! As your family starts arriving in town to celebrate the time-honored tradition of a Thanksgiving meal, you've probably got your menu planned to perfection. You may, Continue reading

Published on Thursday, November 17, 2016

Fall Friday Festival Exclusive

It's officially Festival Season! To celebrate we're giving you the Fall Friday Exclusive with details for the 26th Annual Seaside Seeing Red Wine Festival's Al Fresco Reserve Tasting. Where you're going: Al Fresco Reserve Tasting  on Friday, November 4th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM | Seaside, FL - Lyceum Lawn | Tickets: $250   What you Continue reading

Published on Friday, September 30, 2016

Festival Feature: Bourbon & Bean

The 26th Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival is proving to be one of the most highly anticipated events of the season. There is a lot more to enjoy than the fabulous abundance of wine. We've got spirits, yes we do! There's also going to be delicious food. We're excited to enjoy it all in sunny Seaside so we'll share some insider info on Continue reading

Published on Thursday, September 15, 2016

Yes Way, Rosé All Day

Rosé often gets a bad reputation, but it is just seriously misunderstood wine. Most people assume it is pucker-your-lips sweet like White Zinfandel. Some think it comes from red and white wine varietals blended together. Others just don't know when to drink it or what to eat with it. As rosé has gained a seat at the popular table Continue reading

Published on Friday, September 9, 2016

Charity Spotlight: Shelter House

Abuse has varying forms. It can be physical, verbal, or emotional. All are damaging. Some are deadly. Many times, children are caught in the crossfire as they witness and sometimes directly experience abuse. This leads to physical or emotional trauma and can even result in similar behavior patterns. It is reported that one-third of children Continue reading

Published on Thursday, September 1, 2016

Funding Futures

On the evening of August 23, 2016, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation held our annual Check Presentation Ceremony at the WaterColor LakeHouse, where we were able to donate a record breaking $2.66 million to 14 local charities serving children in need in Northwest Florida. This event is the culmination of all of the fundraising and the Continue reading

Published on Thursday, August 25, 2016

Make a Difference, Play A Part

If you are looking for ways to give back to the community, becoming a sponsor of Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) is a great place to start. Founded in 2005, DCWAF has donated more than $13 Million to Northwest Florida charities by hosting world class wine and culinary events. These funds have impacted the lives of over 75,000 Continue reading

Published on Friday, August 19, 2016

Stellar Wine Cellar

If you are a lover of all things wine, and you find yourself with a collection that just keeps on growing, you have probably considered giving your wine it's own space in your home. That is unless, of course, you already have one.  Here's everything you need to know about building a stellar wine cellar. Store your wine in style: Find the Continue reading

Published on Thursday, August 4, 2016

Habitat for Humanity: Building Futures, Fulfilling Dreams

The Walton County Habitat for Humanity does not only help build homes, they also help build futures. For 20 years, they have been bringing the community together to build affordable homes for families in need. They are proud to say, "this is not a hand out, but rather a hand up" as they require home recipients to perform 250 Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, July 27, 2016

A Spotlight on Spring Mountain

The Spring Mountain District of California is nestled quietly between Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley, but two of the region's vineyards have managed to make some noise across the world. Though it is a remote area, it boasts small yet beautiful patchwork vineyards and the production of exceptional wines like those of  Spring Mountain Vineyard Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Summertime Wine & Dine Party Pairings

In this mid-July summer heat, it can be a challenge to think of what to eat while you're enjoying a little happy hour. You'll want to keep things light and fresh, while you sip the day away with some delectable dishes. We asked one of our favorite foodies, Michelle Russell, for some suggestions on party pairings for daytime outdoor fun. Here& Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Summer Reading: How to read a wine label like a pro

We all remember having a summer reading list to keep our minds occupied during the endless sunny months out of school, but now that we are adults, and wine-drinking pros, we like to exercise our brains by reading wine labels. Though this may seem simple to some, it can often times be challenging to understand all the information on a wine label Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Charity Spotlight: Emerald Coast Autism Center

Every person deserves the chance to be the best version of themself that they can be. This is true across age, cultural background, and even individuals with Autism. The Emerald Coast Autism Center (ECAC) is a place where hope exists and this chance can become reality. Every day, children come to the ECAC school and therapy center where they find that Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Glass Class

Which came first, wine or glass? Turns out, glass is about 1000 years older. That might be one of the reasons why the glass you drink your wine from is actually important. If you love drinking wine, you probably aced Wine 101, but you may not have taken the Glass Class. Ladies and gentlemen, consider this "crash course" in crystal stemware... Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Foodie's Paradise

We can all agree, we live in paradise. Why else would we have so many tourists flocking to our shores and riding off into the horizon alongside us on Highway 98? Our powder white sand, emerald green Gulf water, and sunsets that set the sky ablaze in gold, purple and pink are all part of the allure, but our best kept secret is our fabulous local restaurants... Continue reading

Published on Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Picnic Pointers from Wine Drinking Pros

Summer is that blissful time of year: the sun is out, the birds are chirping, and the perfect shade tree is calling your name. If you’re anything like us, you want to get out there and enjoy it all, so how about a picnic? Doesn’t matter if you’re lounging out at the park, or cruising along the Emerald Coast, we have all the best pointers for you to Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Cheers to your Health!

If you love wine, you have probably heard that it’s good for you, but do you know how good it really is?  Resveratrol. Cholesterol. Can someone please explain it all?   Here’s the skinny- drinking one to two, 4oz glasses of red wine every day can boost your health in a number of ways. Let’s break it down.  1. Antioxidants : These are anti Continue reading

Published on Thursday, May 26, 2016

Chew on This

On Wednesday, May 18, 2016, Food for Thought Outreach celebrated their Destin Pantry's Ribbon Cutting with the Destin Chamber of Commerce. Guests were invited to tour the facility, get to know the organization, register to volunteer, and enjoy light bites provided by  Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer .This new Destin Pantry will help continue Continue reading

Published on Friday, May 20, 2016

Did you know?

Did you know? 1. As you swirl, sniff, and sip your wine, hold it up, look at the color. The color of the wine can actually tell you alot about the region and climate where the grape vine is located. If a wine is darker in shade, it typically comes from a warmer climate. Lighter colors come from cooler climates and taste lighter. This would apply to the Continue reading

Published on Thursday, May 12, 2016

And the grand total is....

We celebrated the 11th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction on April 30th, raising more than $2.65 million for children in need in Northwest Florida. The record breaking results are a $350,000 increase over the $2.3 million raised last year.  The auction kicked off with the Magnum Force lot (50 autographed magnums from DCWAF vintners past and present Continue reading

Published on Thursday, May 5, 2016

11 Secrets For Auction Success: The Ultimate Guide

#11: Plan Your Travel Groups Check our website for our  live lots . It is an auction "must" to pre-plan your travel groups and bidding strategies before the bidding begins! Clear your calendars and plan for the trip of a lifetime! Many of these experiences are for groups of 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10. This means bring your friends! Time to Continue reading

Published on Thursday, April 21, 2016

Auction Tip #7, Listen Closely to The Mission Statement

You will have the pleasure of meeting our 14 charities on Friday night at your patron dinners, each with an amazing mission and story. We are inspired every day by the work they do and how they reach youth and families in their time of need.   AMIkids Emerald Coast Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast Children in Crisis Children's Volunteer Continue reading

Published on Friday, March 25, 2016

Auction Tip # 8, Be Prepared for The Lightning Round

For the first time, our live auction will include a selection of flash lots, sold in rapid-fire fashion. The auctioneer will start the bidding high and go down. The first bidder to raise his or her paddle will win the lot. However, if two bidders raise their paddles at the same time, then the bidding will go up. Think of this as a "Buy It Now.& Continue reading

Published on Friday, March 18, 2016

Auction Tip # 9, Check out the live art installations

Thomas Arvid and Justin Gaffrey ,  two exceptionally  talented artists, will have art available at the auction this year. Gaffrey and Arvid will be painting live and both be apart of the live auction!     Justin Gaffrey "Curates for a Cause."   Justin, one of our local artists will create a one of kind piece LIVE Continue reading

Published on Thursday, March 17, 2016

Winning Women Winemakers

Cristiana Mariani-May, President & CO-CEO "The beverage alcohol industry is male-dominated, but it’s changing, and I do what I can to educate and empower women in our business. What’s truly rewarding is while we are helping other women they are also helping us by sharing their experiences, insights, and passion for discovery."  - Cristina Continue reading

Published on Friday, March 11, 2016

Auction Tip #10, Keep An Eye On The Silents

Hello Again, Wine Lovers! We are close to finishing our 2016 brouchure! As more wine and auction items are being received at the DCWAF office, we are confident our patrons will be pleased with this year's lots. As we have been doing for each Thursday Corkboard, here is another valuable tip to maxamize your auction experience.  Auction tip Continue reading

Published on Thursday, March 10, 2016

Auction Tip #11, Plan Your Travel Groups!

Hello, Wine Lovers! This week we are sharing a few of our travel lots; one in the tropics, one in the mountains, and one under the Tuscan sun. Keep in mind, these three do not complete our entire  live lot category , just a little taste! It is important to get these lots online to view so you can start planning your travel groups! Knowing what lots Continue reading

Published on Thursday, March 3, 2016

Our Local Celebrity Chef Pairs Up With Jackson Family Wines for the 11th Annual Auction

Hello, Wine Lovers! If you have not signed up for your 2016 Patron Dinner yet, not to fret! This week we are diving into the perfectly paired cuisine by Chef Tim Creehan with the wine portfolio of Jackson Family Wines. This dinner will be held at Cuvee Bistro in Destin on April 29th and will be one of 14 patron dinners during the auction weekend.  Continue reading

Published on Thursday, February 25, 2016

You Be the Judge

The countdown begins, just days until the corks are popped, the judges commence, and the champions are announced for over 600 wine entries. You be the judge at Tasting of Champions. DCWAF is excited to join forces with the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival to bring you a diverse selection of quality, world-class wines weeks before they are showcased... Continue reading

Published on Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Corks For A Cause: Youth Village

 This week's "Corks for a Cause" charity spotlight shines on Nellie Bogar's after school organization: Youth Village. Located in Fort Walton Beach and founded over 17 years ago by Nellie Bogar herself, Youth Village has worked hard to serve as a solid foundation for many children who need a safe and positive learning environment Continue reading

Published on Thursday, February 11, 2016

Patron Dinner Preview

Hello, Wine Lovers! It’s already February and the 2016 Auction is on the horizon! Patron Dinners are filling up quickly. Our patron hosts are working diligently with their celebrity chefs and winemakers to create an exquisite evening of perfectly paired wine presentation and five course meal. Our Friday Patron Dinners are such a special and Continue reading

Published on Thursday, February 4, 2016

"My Best Wine Hasn't Even Been Made Yet!"

The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is elated to annouce esteemed wine vintner, Merry Edwards of Merry Edwards Winery will be attending the 11th annual Destin Charity Wine Auction. After over 40 years in wine and overcoming  Edwards has now established an acclaimed and celebrated character in the world of vintners.  Wine Spectator introduces Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 28, 2016

Great Futures Start Here

1 in 5 kids do not graduate high school on time. The state of Florida ranks 33rd among the 50 states with a low rate of high school graduation and a high percentage of children in poverty. Many students are left unsupervised after school when juvenile crime escalates. Without an education or a positive role model, youth often turn to crime.  By Continue reading

Published on Thursday, January 21, 2016

Why Winter Break is Not a Break for Everyone

Remember that last week of school in December, anxiously awaiting your winter break, tapping your pencil on your desk, staring at the clock, each minute feeling like an hour? And then the bell rings, and there it is, sweet freedom. You run for your backback, thinking of all of the fun things you will do for the next few weeks; stockings filled... Continue reading

Published on Friday, January 15, 2016

Wine Spectator Top 100 Dinner

What's Cookin?  Bijoux 's Chef Jack McGuckin has leaked out the menu for the upcoming Wine Spectator Top 100 Dinner benefiting DCWAF.  This dinner will take place on January 24, 2016, at 6pm and with limited seats, be sure to contact us soon to reserve your space. Tickets are $1000 per person. The wines featured are among the Top 100 Continue reading

Published on Monday, January 4, 2016

Tis the Season to Give

From all of us at Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, we wish you and your loved ones a very Happy Holidays! Many of us are extremely fortunate this holiday season, and because of our relationship with our 14 charities, we are made aware daily of those that live right in our neighborhood who are not. Each year we are able to reach more families Continue reading

Published on Friday, December 18, 2015

Charity Spotlight: Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center

 There are 2.9 million reported cases of child abuse every year in the United States. These reports come from teachers, law enforcement or legal representatives or social service providers. 1 in 16 children suffer from sexual abuse and 1 in 10 children suffer from child maltreatment. Experts agree that these incidences are far greater than what Continue reading

Published on Monday, December 7, 2015

What We're Drinking Now.... and Who's Cookin'

Announcing Jenny Wagner of Wagner Family Wines to attend the 11th Annual Auction to represent what started as her mother's winery,  Emmolo . We recommend the 2013 Merlot. Jenny's goal for this wine was to create a "well-balanced Merlot with superbly rich fruit, soft tannins, and dark color. This first release exhibits aromas of mahogany Continue reading

Published on Thursday, December 3, 2015

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Connecting wine enthusiasts to raise money benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida

Founded in 2005, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation has donated more than $32 Million to Northwest Florida children's charities by hosting world class wine and culinary events. These funds have impacted the lives of over 100,000 youth, including those afflicted by health issues and abuse. Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is recognized as one of the nation’s ‘Top 10 Charity Wine Auctions in the U.S.’ by Wine Spectator Magazine for more than a decade.

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