Participants took a "Sentimental Journey" June 3-6, 1999 for the last Napa Valley Wine Auction of the century. They reflected on vintages past, joys of vintages present and best of all – vintages yet to come.

This year, nearly 200 live auction lots were up for grabs with proceeds going to the needy of Napa County. Since its inception in 1981 more than $16 million has been poured into local health care.

Pat McConahay attended the 1998 event and found it to be a rousing good time as the bidding for prized wines and other goodies got more and more frenzied. The food was also to die for. It is something to experience at least once, if not year after year.

For more information on the auction call the Napa Valley Vintners Association at
(707) 942-9775.

If you have a thirst for additional wine events -- check out this list.

August 7, 1999 it’s the Gourmet Food and Wine Festival in Torrance. One hundred California wines and 35 upscale restaurants will be featured. Call (310) 540-5858.

Lights, camera, action! It’s the fifth annual California Wine Auction in the Livermore Valley, August 6-7, 1999 celebrating the golden era of cinema.
Call (925) 447-WINE.

It’s hilarity for charity as vintners dress up in costume for the Sonoma Valley Harvest Wine Auction September 4-6, 1999.
For tickets call (707) 935-0803.

If you have comments or questions about this story, please E-mail Producer/Reporter Pat McConahay at pmcconah@kvie.org.