The 2020 Oregon Wine Experience® transformed its efforts to the digital sphere from Aug. 14-23, 2020. Two online auctions and livestream programs attracted over 3,400 people to tune-in and bid, generating more than $1.1 million. All proceeds benefit children’s health care and other programs at Asante, a local, community-owned and governed not-for-profit organization with nearly 6,000 employees who provide medical care to nearly 600,000 people in a nine-county area of Southern Oregon and Northern California.
“The continued generosity from our sponsors and donors during this unique year is so important and truly appreciated,” says Floyd Harmon, Executive Director, Asante Foundation. “Their support wrapped around Oregon wineries, culinary partners and health care—all industries critically impacted by COVID-19, and we’re thrilled with the outcome.”
Livestream Medal Celebration (Aug. 14)
On Aug. 14 at 6 p.m. PT, 2,200 viewers tuned in via YouTube and Facebook Live to see this year’s crowned medal winners of the Oregon Wine Competition®. Attendees and sponsors enjoyed “Medal Celebration in a Box” packages, featuring award-winning Oregon wine, and delectable food from Seven Feathers Casino Resort chefs and Harry & David. The Virtual Medal Celebration saluted all of the participating wineries, 76 of which went home with at least one medal—Silver, Gold or Double Gold. This year’s Best of Show honorees include:
- Specialty: 2019 Brandborg All Hands Petillant Naturel Gewurztraminer
- White: 2019 South Stage Cellars Romeo & Juliet White Blend
- Red: 2017 Quady North 4-2,A Syrah
Virtual Miracle Auction (Aug. 14-22)
The Virtual Miracle Auction featured 196 lots, and 398 bidders fought for a chance to win one-of-a-kind travel experiences, rare wines and more. This online-only auction generated more than $250,000.
Virtual Founders’ Barrel Auction (Aug. 14-23)
Twenty-five proud Oregon wineries created 26 exclusive and standard production wine lots for bidders to take home, which will be bottled over the next several months. In its online-only format, the Founders’ Barrel Auction produced nearly $100,400 as attendees enjoyed the new software and bidding reward system.
Livestream Miracle Program (Aug. 22)
Beginning at 7 p.m. PT on Aug. 22, more than 750 viewers tuned in to hear the brave story of a pediatric cancer patient. The master of ceremonies and auctioneer created an exciting program featuring coveted auction items and raised nearly $160,000 during the live paddle raise. Sponsors set their “virtual tables” from home with “Miracle Auction in a Box” bundles, encasing this year’s award-winning wine and opulent food creations curated by the Rogue Valley Manor culinary team, Coquille Indian Tribe and Harry & David.
Next year’s Oregon Wine Experience is scheduled for August 23-29, 2021. For more information, please visit theoregonwineexperience.com or call (541) 789-5025.