The 24th annual Naples Winter Wine Festival live auction raised an unofficial record-breaking amount with more than $33 million Jan. 27 at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon. The Naples Children & Education Foundation will release the official total in the coming days.

The 50 luxurious auction lots included rare collections of some of the world’s most sought-after wines, exotic travel adventures, limited-edition cars and unique experiences. Every dollar raised under the auction tent funds NCEF, the festival’s founding organization that  seeks to transform the lives of underprivileged and at-risk children.

The record for a winning bid for a single lot was broken on Lot 29, a seven-night Mediterranean vacation for six couples on the 312-foot superyacht M/Y Whisper. The winning bid was $2.7 million.

This year’s bids bring the total amount raised for NCEF to nearly $302 million since the wine festival’s inception in 2001. The proceeds support more than 50 community nonprofit organizations that have provided more than 300,000 local children with services and resources.

Here’s a recap of the winning bids and the auction lots this year.

Lot 1: Drive a piece of history and collect liquid legends 

Winning bid: $320,000

The winner of this lot will be the owner of a completely restored 1966 vintage Ford Bronco finished in a custom pink color, inspired by the 2023 Barbie movie, with a custom hand stitched white leather interior with matching pink stitching. In addition, the winner will receive a collection of 39 Magnums from each of the 2024 Naples Winter Wine Festival’s participating vintners. Some of the high points include 2009 Château d’Yquem, 2016 Harlan Estate, 2007 Marchesi Antinori Matarocchio Bolgheri DOC Superiore, 2016 Opus One, Rare Rosé Millésime 2014, 2018 Joseph Drouhin Beaune Clos des Mouches Premier Cru Blanc and 2000 Château Pontet-Canet. 

Lot 2: From the purity of Pomerol to the gems of the Caribbean 

Winning bid: $220,000

Two couples will have a one-night experience in Bordeaux plus enjoy a seven-night Caribbean voyage. This lot includes an overnight stay at Château La Conseillante’s family estate home in Pomerol, an opportunity rarely granted to outsiders. The group will be hosted for a multicourse lunch by winemaker and managing director Marielle Cazaux. In February 2025, they will travel to Barbados and board the Evrima, from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, for an intimate cruise through the Caribbean. The itinerary includes stops in St. Georges, Grenada; Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; St. John’s, Antigua; South Friar’s Bay, St. Kitts; and Virgin Gorda, BVI. This lot includes 2 Double Magnums of 2016 Château La Conseillante. 

Lot 3: The Legacy of 3 winemaking families 

Winning bid: $320,000

Two couples will receive a 10-night immersion in wine from the perspective of three of the world’s greatest regions: Bordeaux, Veneto, and Napa Valley. Begin with three nights in Pauillac on the Domaines Peyronie estate, including a private tour and tasting at Château Fonbadet and Château Lafite Rothschild. From there they’ll travel to Italy for a four-night in-depth exposure to Bolla and Pagani Automobili, including a special experience with Pierluigi Bolla. The journey culminates in Napa with the four siblings of the Mondavi Sisters’ Collection, who will show them the valley as they’ve never seen it before. Each couple will receive an assortment of wines from the three families, including an incredibly rare Magnum of 2012 Charles Krug Winery Peter Mondavi, Sr. 100th Anniversary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Lot 4: How sweet it is 

Winning bid: $380,000

Three couples will spend three nights discovering the glories of the world’s greatest sweet wine with Château d’Yquem. They’ll begin with a night in Paris at the Hôtel Cheval Blanc and enjoy dinner at three Michelin-starred Plénitude. From there, they’ll travel to Bordeaux for a two-night stay at Yquem. The party will tour the property and the cellar with president and CEO Pierre Lurton and experience a private, multicourse dinner prepared by an estate chef. They’ll be treated to an evening at the Opéra National de Bordeaux. In addition, this lot includes a remarkable assortment of Château d’Yquem vintages in extremely rare Large Format bottles, including three Methuselahs (2013, 2014 and 2015), three Double Magnums (2010, 2017 and 2018), three Magnums (2009, 2015 and 2017), as well as four 750ml bottles of 2005.

Lot 5: The Best of Burgundy in a week 

Winning bid: $480,000

Two couples will have a seven-night insider’s view of Burgundy, seen through the eyes of Maison Joseph Drouhin, one of the region’s greatest estates. The 18th-century private guest house will serve as their home base. They’ll have dinner with proprietor Véronique Boss-Drouhin, tour of the city of Dijon, visit the famous Hospices de Beaune, including a private tasting in the underground cellars of the Dukes of Burgundy and Kings of France, and experience privileged participation in an exclusive chapter of the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin. The winning couples will receive Large Format bottles of the some of the greatest Premier and Grand Crus from the Drouhin portfolio: a vertical collection of Magnums from the 2017, 2018 and 2019 vintages of Clos des Mouches white and red, along with Musigny and Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche. 

Lot 6: Uncorking a California first growth 

Winning bid: $520,000

Three couples will have once-in-a-lifetime access to the rare wines of Harlan Estate and the Harlan family for two nights in Napa. They will stay at five-star Meadowood, and their time at Harlan Estate will include an intimate lunch with the first-generation family members, as well as a private dinner with the second generation. The couples also will have access to the rich Harlan family archive and a spa treatment. This lot includes extremely rare 6-liter bottles of Harlan Estate in vintages 1993, 2001 and 2019.  

Lot 7: The luck of the Irish with Relais & Châteaux 

Winning bid: $580,000

Two couples will have an eight-night intimate look at the scenery, cuisine and lifestyle of Ireland, staying exclusively in Relais & Châteaux properties and guided by acclaimed Napa vintners Blakesley & Cyril Chappellet. Their journey begins in Dublin for two nights at the five-star Merrion Hotel and dinner at two Michelin-starred Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud. Their travels will include two nights at the Cashel Palace Hotel in County Tipperary, two nights at Ballyfin Demesne and two nights at Ballynahinch Castle Hotel & Estate. Each couple will have their memories of Ireland enhanced by a collection of etched Magnum bottles of Chappellet Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon from 2012, 2015 and 2016.  

Lot 8: The Tuscan way of life with Il Borro Toscana and Cuvée 

Winning bid: $480,000

Two couples will be immersed in the Tuscan lifestyle for 12 indulgent nights. They’ll begin in Florence with a three-night stay at the five-star Portrait Firenze and enjoy a personal guided tour of the Ferragamo museum by Christine Ferragamo. They’ll spend two nights at Il Borro, where they will tour the property and enjoy a private lunch or dinner with Christine & Salvatore Ferragamo. They will spend two nights at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco including a round of golf. Their final five nights will be spent at Cuvée’s five-bedroom Tuscan Farmhouse located in the heart of Chianti Classico. While staying at the 16th century estate partake in pizza making, a private cooking class and wine tastings in the countryside. This trip also includes a day in Forte dei Marmi and a visit to Gilda Beach Club. Each couple will receive a 6-liter bottle of 2017 Il Borro. 

Lot 9: Shine bright like a diamond 

Winning bid: $400,000

One couple will attend the exclusive launch of the Chanel 2024 High Jewelry Collection on the French Riviera from June 20-24, including exclusive access to Chanel’s black-tie gala dinner and the opportunity to be the first to view and purchase from the High Jewelry Collection. Unique and custom-designed activities will be based on the winning bidders’ preferences and planned with the Chanel team. 

Lot 10: Cruising the islands of Croatia 

Winning bid: $800,000

Four couples will join hosts Kelley and Jim Bailey of Knights Bridge Winery for eight nights on an unforgettable exploration of the wonders of Croatia. They’ll spend a night in a luxury hotel in either Dubrovnik or Split before boarding the 122-foot yacht Navilux, an elegant vessel with every possible comfort and convenience, including an experienced crew of eight. During their seven nights onboard, they’ll visit islands only accessible to small luxury vessels such as Brač, Hvar, Korčula, Mljet and Šipan. With a coastline bordering the Adriatic Sea and a rich culture of art, music, food and wine, the country has something to delight everyone. Each couple will receive a Magnum of 2021 Draco Dormiere. 

Lot 11: At the Intersection of Wine, Art and Music 

Winning bid: $240,000

Two couples will have an opportunity to spend six nights with Suzanne Deal Booth, proprietor of Bella Oaks. Their party will stay two nights at the Four Seasons Napa Valley and receive a private estate art tour and wine tasting, along with a dinner at a Michelin-starred PRESS. They will travel to Marfa, Texas, for a night, where Booth will expose them to the city’s vibrant, under-the-radar art scene. They’ll then jet to Austin, Texas, where the centerpiece of their time will be three full days at the Austin City Limits Music Festival, with VIP passes, including Boom Passes, as well as several private museum tours. Each couple will receive a 3-liter bottle of the 2017 Bella Oaks Proprietary Red Blend.

Lot 12: Blackberry’s Bounty, Wine Country Bliss 

Winning bid: $380,000

Three couples will be treated to the very best in food, wine and leisure in the Great Smoky Mountains for six nights at Blackberry Mountain and Blackberry Farm, plus an intimate wine experience in Napa Valley. During their three nights on the Mountain, they’ll dine at the flagship Three Sisters restaurant by 2024 NWWF Celebrity Chef Joey Edwards. Next, they’ll spend three nights at Blackberry Farm. They’ll experience spectacular dinners created by Cassidee Dabney, one of which will be hosted by Maya and Naoko Dalla Valle. During your visit to Napa, they’ll be granted access to the Dalla Valle property, where winemaker Maya will give them a tour of the estate and a private tasting. They’ll also enjoy a private dinner with Maya and Naoko. In addition, each couple will receive a trio of Dalla Valle wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Maya and MDV.

Lot 13: Racing Champions, Legendary Wines and a Cuvée Casita 

Winning bid: $520,000

Four couples will receive a three-night behind-the-scenes experience at the 2024 Breeders’ Cup with Barbara Banke in Del Mar, California, followed by five nights at the Cuvée Los Cabos Seaside La Casita. They’ll have VIP entry to all Breeders’ Cup events, including the Owner’s Party, the Director’s Dining Room and all championship races. From San Diego they’ll travel to the end of the Baja Peninsula for a five-night stay at Cuvée Los Cabos. Experiences will include a dinner prepared by a private chef with tapas and mezcal pairings, an exploration of the taco hot spots of Cabo San Lucas and a day of deep-sea fishing. This lot includes a nearly priceless 2010-2019 vertical Magnum collection of La Muse from Vérité. 

Lot 14: Endearing Grand Journey à la Française with Roseblood 

Winning bid: $260,000

Two couples will be treated to a dream-like holiday for five nights in France with accommodations at the exceptional properties of Les Airelles. For the first half of the trip, they’ll have the option of choosing a spring, summer or winter adventure: two nights in either Saint-Tropez or Val d’lsère in the French Alps, dining at the Matsuhisa restaurant on property and spa treatments, plus a location-specific excursion. No matter the time of the visit, they’ll spend a night at Villa Baulieu and two nights at Château d’Estoublon. The winning bidders will blend their personal Cuvée, and vines on the estate will be named after the winners. In addition, the lot includes a Magnum of Roseblood signed by Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. Roundtrip, Business Class Airfare is included. 

Lot 15: From the Wilds of Canada to the Sunshine of Napa 

Winning bid: $300,000

Two couples will indulge in a five-night adventure that combines some of the best Napa wines with the finest duck hunting and fishing. Their party will join vintners Shari and Garen Staglin and Kim and Ed Labry for three nights at Big Creek Hunting Lodge. Spending days shooting and fishing, plus a personal chef will prepare breakfast and dinner, with the evening meal accompanied by the Staglins’ and Labrys’ library wines. Head to Napa for a stay at the Labry’s luxurious guest house for two nights. They’ll visit the Staglin home for a gourmet dinner created by Chef Cindy Pawlcyn, and they’ll be hosted by Southerner Ed Labry for a BBQ dinner an evening. Both couples will take home a 3-liter bottle from each winery, along with a pair of duck-themed cufflinks and a pendant.

Lot 16: Antinori: 26 Generations of Excellence 

Winning bid: $500,000

Two couples will spend a week exploring the high points of the Antinori estates, with privileged insider access to the wine, cuisine and lifestyle of their dreams. Their journey begins in Florence for two nights in the private apartment at Palazzo Antinori. They’ll have a private, guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery and sample the cuisine of the region. From there, their party will travel to Chianti Classico for a two-night stay at Villa Tignanello before heading to Bolgheri where they’ll spend two nights in the guest house at Guado al Tasso. They will then be transported to the Antinori estate of Castello della Sala in Umbria for a night. At each location, they’ll will receive tours, tastings, dinners and more. This lot includes a vertical of Marchesi Antinori Tignanello in 3-liter bottles, as well as a vertical in Magnums of Antinori’s Solaia Toscana. 

Lot 17: Driving to Victory with Aston Martin and F1 

Winning bid: $650,000

This amazing lot provides a chance to own a 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante convertible with a Caribbean Blue Pearl 2 exterior, blue roof, smoked taillights, red brake calipers and Glacier White leather interior with Spicy Red contrast stitching. The vehicle offers a 4-liter, twin turbo engine with a top speed of 202 mph and the ability to go from zero to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds. The winning bidder will also spend three days in Miami and receive two tickets to the Aston Martin’s F1 Paddock Club with access to the team’s garages, along with fine dining, copious amounts of champagne and a view of the track that you can’t get anywhere else. Exclusive experiences during the race weekend will be planned by the Aston Martin team. 

Lot 18: Wining and Dining with All-Stars 

Winning bid: $260,000

Two couples will experience a six-night food and wine journey in Sonoma plus a three-night Seattle sports getaway. The nights in Sonoma will be spent at the Bricoleur’s Vineyard Residence. Their all-star experience will be highlighted by dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Palmer in his home, along with meals at Montage Healdsburg, The Matheson and SingleThread Farm. Winery visits include Crescere Wines, Jordan Winery and Silver Oak, among others. The second part of the lot offers a three-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, with a VIP experience at a Seahawks game hosted by former NFL Super Bowl Champion Sidney Rice and a fine dining dinner. Each couple will take home an assortment of wines from Bricoleur Vineyards and Crescere Wines. In addition, each couple will receive a one-year subscription to InVintory Opus Cellar Management Software and a custom JAMAH Motorcar Collection wine tote. 

Lot 19: Southeast Asian Sojourn through Vietnam and Thailand 

Winning bid: $650,000

Two couples will experience a nine-night cultural exploration of Thailand and Vietnam. Their journey begins with three nights in Bangkok with a helicopter tour, followed by visits to Wat Pho and Ayutthaya, plus an art and culture tour of the city. They’ll fly to Chiang Rai and stay three nights at five-star Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. While there, spend a night in comfort observing majestic elephants in their natural habitat in a Jungle Bubble. Their odyssey will conclude with three nights in Ho Chi Minh City, with visits to historical sites related to America’s Vietnam war years and a sunset cruise along the Saigon River, plus a chef’s table experience at Mia Saigon. 

Lot 20: Long Island Big Fore 

Winning bid: $350,000

 

The winning bidders’ party of four will travel to the Hamptons to play four of the most elite and prestigious golf courses in America, normally inaccessible to outsiders. Their golf odyssey begins at National Golf Links of America and includes a proper lunch. In addition, their foursome will play a round at Maidstone Club, Sebonack Golf Club and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. Each round includes caddies. The group will enjoy five nights at The American Hotel in Sag Harbor and four nights of local dinners at their choice of restaurants. 

Lot 21: The View from the Top 

Winning bid:  $550,000

Two couples will experience five nights in the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps. The adventure begins with two nights in Zermatt, located at the foot of the Matterhorn. They’ll have a private Gornergrat experience, culminating in a helicopter flight around Matterhorn, itself. The journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz will take place aboard the Glacier Express, providing views of unspoiled forests, lush Alpine pastures, rushing streams and mountain valleys. Their three nights in St. Moritz include a full day private guided tour of St. Moritz Mountains, lunch at Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant and a horse-drawn carriage ride to Roseg Valley. 

Lot 22: From the Serenity of Napa to the Glitter of the Oscars 

Winning bid: $320,000

Two couples will spend two nights with the Tesseron family in Napa, plus two nights with Chopard in Los Angeles. Their journey begins at Villa Sorriso where they’ll have a dinner and a lunch on the estate hosted by a family member, plus a private tour and tasting at Pym-Rae. In Los Angeles, they will join Chopard to attend the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party, a star-studded gala experience. The winning bidders will have access to the Chopard Jewelry Suite and each couple will be credited $10,000 toward a purchase. The winners have the option to visit France with tastings at Château Pontet-Canet and Tesseron Cognac. This lot offers three Double Magnums of Château Pontet-Canet, as well as a mini-vertical of Pym-Rae Mount Veeder.  

Lot 23: Unbelievably Utah 

Winning bid: $800,000

Three couples or six individuals will spend a week in the luxurious 7,000-square-foot Deer Valley penthouse owned by Shelly and Ralph Stayer. The penthouse features four bedrooms plus an eight-bed bunkroom, six full baths, multiple fireplaces, cigar room, ski-in/ski-out access and priceless views of the mountains. They will have access to all Montage Deer Valley amenities, as well as enjoy four days of ski passes at Montage and a day at Deer Crest Club. Their party will visit some of the best local restaurants, including tupelo, La Stellina and Apex, and indulge in the Alpenglobe dinner experience. This lot also includes a Louis Vuitton Horizon Soft Duffle 55. The winners will enjoy a 10-year vertical collection of Frank Family Winston Hill Red Wine.

Lot 24: A Fortnight of Unforgettable Food and Wine 

Winning bid: $450,000

Five couples will spend two weeks at the Estate on Pritchard Hill, a secluded retreat adjacent to the OVID Napa Valley estate. Their party will dine at Ad Hoc and three Michelin-starred The French Laundry. They’ll enjoy a private dinner at the Estate on Pritchard Hill hosted by Kary and David R. Duncan and prepared by Chef Thomas Keller. David Duncan will give them party a tour of Silver Oak’s vineyards, along with a tour of OVID Napa Valley. Other experiences include access to David Duncan’s personal recommendations for winery visits, a private performance by Duncan himself, a founding member of The Silverado Pickups, plus an exotic car rally with Napa Valley Car Club. This lot includes a Double Magnum and six 750ml bottles of both 2019 OVID Napa Valley Red Wine and Hexameter. In addition, both couples will secure a spot as lifetime collectors on the OVID allocation list. 

Lot 25: A Holiday Under the Tuscan Sun 

Winning bid: $500,000

Two couples will spend seven nights exploring the high points of Chianti and Brunello at the estates of Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini. The winning bidders’ party will stay in Executive Suites at Relais Borgo Scopeto. During their visit, they’ll tour the vineyards, taste the range of Borgo Scopeto wines and dine on the game of the region. They’ll enjoy a day trip to Caparzo and Altesino wineries in Montalcino, complete with tours, tastings and lunch. When the time comes to rejuvenate, take refuge in the Borgo Scopeto Relax with a massage and enjoy a Bacchus bath. Each couple will receive an assortment of the best wines from the three properties, in various formats and vintages. 

Lot 26: Meet Me in Music City 

Winning bid: $480,000

Three couples with spend three nights in Nashville experiencing exceptional musical performances and the best of Nashville dining. Hosted by vintners Valerie Boyd and Jeff Gargiulo, they’ll experience a show at Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry House, a private songwriting session at ASCAP followed by a recording session, a member-guided tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and visits to clubs such as The Bluebird Cafe, 3rd and Lindsley and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. They’ll dine at Yolan, The 404 Kitchen and The Loveless Café. Each couple will return home with a pair of handmade boots and customized headwear plus a 3-liter bottle of Gargiulo Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon from one of their designated vineyards.  

Lot 27: The Power of Bordeaux and the Elegance of Burgundy 

Winning bid: $480,000

Two couples will spend six nights in France to decide for themselves if Bordeaux or Burgundy wines are greater with visits to some of the finest estates in both regions. Their first three nights will be in Bordeaux including a tour and wine paired lunch with the Manoncourt family at Château-Figeac. Their tour of the area’s best properties will culminate in a VIP tasting at Vignobles et Châteaux in Saint-Émilion. Their home base for three nights in Burgundy will be La Cuverie by Comte Liger-Belair in Vosne-Romanée. They’ll enjoy private tastings with the winemakers at Domaine Comte Liger-Belair, Domaine Duroché, Domaine Fourrier and Domaine Jobard, access that is rarely granted to outsiders. Each couple will receive a 3-liter bottle of the highly rated 2010 Château-Figeac in its original wooden case.

Lot 28: Compass of the Napa Valley 

Winning bid: $350,000

Three couples will experience a four-night Napa journey including glamping among the vineyards. Their first two nights will be spent at a luxury glamping site at the Favia Oakville Vineyard, while the last two nights will be spent at five-star Stanly Ranch. They’ll enjoy a dinner prepared by 3-Michelin Star chef Christopher Kostow. During a series of tastings, they’ll sample the range of Favia wines and fulfill their dream of becoming a winemaker with a personal blending session. Memories of their time at Favia will be enhanced by 3-liter bottles of the 2016 Favia Cabernet Sauvignon from both Oakville and Coombsville and a case of wine from their blending session.  

Lot 29: Sailing the Turquoise Waters of the Mediterranean 

Winning bid: $2.7 million

Six couples will cruise the Mediterranean for seven nights on the 312-foot superyacht M/Y Whisper (formerly Kismet), enjoying every comfort and convenience while visiting exotic ports and out-of-the-way destinations. The seven spacious Staterooms are equipped with king beds and ensuites, and there is a crew of 27 to attend to their every need. The yacht includes multiple lounging and dining areas, formal dining room, fold-down sea terrace, double height main saloon, cozy cinema room, world-class gym, full spa and salon, an impressive range of tenders and toys and a top deck 12-meter pool, perfect for gazing the stunning coastlines.

Lot 30: The Legacy of the Vines and the Sound of the Waves 

Winning bid: $260,000

Two couples will receive a two-night intimate view of the Mondavi legacy at Continuum in Napa, followed by a seven-night stay in Newport Beach, California. Their party will experience an in-depth vineyard tour and tasting, a private dinner at the Mondavi family residence, a blending session with the Continuum winemaking team and dinner at Michelin-starred PRESS. Their nights in Newport Beach will be spent in a three-bedroom ocean view residence at The Resort at Pelican Hill. Relax on some of California’s most picturesque beaches, indulge in spa treatments or play a round of golf. This lot features an 11-bottle, 3-liter vertical of Continuum, from 2009-2019, a 3-liter of the custom blended wine, along with a unique art piece by Chiara Mondavi.  

Lot 31: The World at Your Fingertips 

Winning bid: $420,000

 

One couple plus a guest couple will enjoy a night in beautiful Bordeaux plus a 14-night voyage aboard The World, Residences at Sea. Indulge in two Michelin-starred dining for up to eight people at Ever Restaurant in Chicago with wine pairings. Travel to Bordeaux for a night with an insider visit at Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, including a private tour, tasting and lunch with winemaker Nicolas Glumineau. At a mutually agreeable time, they’ll board The World, the largest private residential yacht at sea, for a 14-day voyage for the sailing of your choice. They’ll stay in a two-bedroom suite and take advantage of The World’s many amenities, including an in-residence dinner, spa treatments and a bespoke destination experience. In addition, the lot includes a 6-liter bottle of the 1990 Pichon Lalande, along with 2 750ml bottles of the 2009 vintage. 

Lot 32: Illuminating London with the Brilliance of Diamonds 

Winning bid: $450,000

Two couples will have a three-night London holiday focused on a behind-the-scenes view of Graff Diamonds, coupled with either the experience of the Royal Ascot or the charm of the English countryside. The winning bidders’ party will spend two nights in London at a luxury hotel while exploring the glittering portfolio of Graff Diamonds. If they choose to stay in London for the third night, they’ll have VIP access to the Royal Ascot. Their other option is a night in the Cotswolds with accommodations at five-star The Manor House in Castle Combe, including a full day exploring the Cotswolds villages and a traditional English lunch. The winning couples will each receive a $25,000 credit toward a purchase in a North American Graff Diamonds salon and Magnums of 2018 Laurence Graff Reserve Delaire Estate. 

Lot 33: On the Beat with Opus One 

Winning bid: $480,000

Four couples will spend five nights experiencing a taste of Opus One, Napa and the arts at Festival Napa Valley. Their experience will begin at Opus One with an al fresco lunch in the estate vineyards, followed by an evening of exclusive access to artists and wine industry stars. Their party will enjoy custom VIP patron packages including Taste of Napa and Arts for All Gala. They’ll have a behind-the-scenes look and private tasting of Opus One hosted by winemaker Michael Silacci. On their final evening, they’ll be welcomed back to the property for a private concert at the winery and a multicourse dinner, accompanied by a selection of Opus One vintages. Each couple will receive a Double Magnum of Opus One 2014 signed by Michael Silacci.

Lot 34: Tiger’s Challenge and Inspirato Dreams 

Winning bid: $300,000

Four couples will have a fight-night up-close view of the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, followed by a five-night stay at one of the luxury properties in the Inspirato portfolio. The accommodations in the Bahamas will be in Amy and John Quinn’s penthouse residence at the exclusive Albany property. Enjoy eight Full Hospitality Packages with access to the hospitality pavilion, plus Friday Night’s Beach Party and Sunday’s After Party. Activities include a private chef dinner in the penthouse, dinner at Graycliff Restaurant, a round of golf at Baha Mar and a private catamaran excursion. The next five nights of their trip will be spent in one of the resorts or residences of the Inspirato Vacation portfolio in the Southeast U.S., including Kiawah Island, South Carolina; Savannah or St. Simons Island, Georgia; and Rosemary Beach.  

Lot 35: 25 Years of Wine, Music and Generosity 

Winning bid: $1 million (40 couples at $25,000 each)

Forty couples will contribute $25,000 each to take part in this exclusive one-of-a-kind event at D’Amico’s The Continental. The evening begins with a cocktail reception followed by a multicourse sit-down meal. The wines being poured hail from former NWWF Honored Vintners, representing a selection spanning the past 24 years. The event will conclude with a remarkable musical performance by The Silverado Pickups, a kickoff to the 25th anniversary season of the Naples Winter Wine Festival. 

Lot 36: A Lowcountry Thanksgiving to Remember 

Winning bid: $400,000

Four couples will spend four nights at Montage Palmetto Bluff over Thanksgiving 2024, enjoying spectacular wine, food and leisure activities in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The winning bidders’ party will experience an expansive Thanksgiving brunch, private wine tasting on Friday afternoon and a private multicourse wine paired dinner on Saturday evening hosted by winemaker Jesse Katz. Katz will bring a curated collection of his favorite wines to feature during the tasting and dinner. When they’re not being wined and dined, play a round of golf and enjoy spa treatments. Includes an assortment of red and white wines and roundtrip.

Lot 37: Winemaking in Sonoma and the Apex of Skiing in Vail 

Winning bid: $400,000

Four couples will savor two nights in Sonoma plus a seven-night skiing adventure in Vail. During the visit to Sonoma, they’ll stay at the Montage Healdsburg and visit proprietors Carrie & Clay Mauritson’s home with a dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Palmer. They’ll have a Pinot Noir blending session with Clay and the chef to create a personal barrel of Pinot Noir. At their convenience, their party will head to Vail, Colorado, with a stay in Vail’s most luxurious residence, Opus by The Apex Collection by Triumph Mountain Properties, a magnificent nine-bedroom, 15,000-square-foot property nestled at the foot of Vail Mountain. The property includes two heated swimming pools and hot tubs, stocked ski room, fitness studio, theater room and more. While in Vail, Clay Mauritson will visit them and host a dinner at the residence, paired with Mauritson Wines.

Lot 38: Driving on the Wings of a Cloud 

Winning bid: $1.4 million

The winning bidder will be among the first in the U.S. to own a 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, the automaker’s inaugural all-electric vehicle. It offers a bespoke design specifically for the 2024 NWWF, with an Arctic White and Tempest Grey two-tone exterior including a Tailored Purple coachline, 23-inch wing spoke part polished wheels and Grace White leather interior accented with tailored purple and black. When it comes to speed, the car boasts 577 horsepower and 664 foot-pounds of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The interior features the starlight headliner as well as starlight doors and fascia and is the most connected Rolls-Royce ever.

Lot 39: Wine, Wellness and High-Altitude Adventure 

Winning bid: $380,000

Two couples will enjoy a total of nine nights of world-class skiing, wellness and in-depth experiences at each of the Lawrence Wine Estates. They’ll begin with three nights at The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado. Each member will have lift tickets, seats on the Powder Cat and the best in Aspen dining plus a private wine cellar experience. Head to Tucson, Arizona, for a three-night stay at Canyon Ranch, one of the top ten wellness resorts in the world. At another time, they will spend three nights exploring the wineries of Lawrence Wine Estates through a combination of winery visits, vineyard tours and tastings. The highlight of the trip will be dinner at Michelin-starred PRESS hosted by Erik Elliott and Carlton McCoy. Includes four Double Magnums of Cabernet Sauvignon from Burgess, Ink Grade and Heitz Cellar. 

Lot 40: The Glory of the Dundee Hills 

Winning bid: $500,000

Two couples will enjoy six nights in Oregon, including an insider’s look into one of America’s most pioneering wine estates with Grace Evenstad and Domaine Serene. Their adventure begins with four nights at Domaine Serene Winery Hill House. In addition to private tastings, they’ll be welcomed at Grace Evenstad’s home for an intimate dinner and off-road experience with Evenstad in her Hummer to visit Domaine Serene’s most secret vineyards. They’ll spend their final two nights at the Tetherow Resort in Bend with dinner at the Domaine Serene Wine Lounge and a round of golf. As a cellar treasure, each couple will receive a 5-liter 2016 Grace Vineyard Pinot Noir and a 9-liter of the rare 2015 Aspect Pinot Noir, in addition to an assorted case of both new and library releases.  

Lot 41: Exploring the Land of the Long White Cloud 

Winning bid: $450,000

Two couples will experience New Zealand in nine nights as few tourists see it. They’ll spend a night at five-star Park Hyatt Auckland and then fly to Queenstown for three nights at the Matakauri Lodge. Experience a private helicopter tour of Milford Sound and spend a day with the artists of the Wakatipu Basin. Travel to Hawke’s Bay where they’ll stay at five-star The Farm at Cape Kidnappers and visit internationally recognized wineries, including an exclusive experience at Craggy Range with a family member or winemaker. Even the most seasoned golfer will be deeply impressed by a two-night stay at Te Arai Links with rounds of golf at both the north and south courses and a round at the private Tara Iti Golf Club, rated the No. 2 golf course in the world. 

Lot 42: The Rarest of the Rare 

Winning bid: $650,000

Two couples will experience six nights in France with the best of Paris, followed by special insider access in Reims. Their journey begins with three nights in Paris, where their party will receive a private tour of the Palace of Versailles. They’ll visit Maison Mellerio, the oldest and last family-owned jewelry house in France. They’ll then transfer to Reims for a private tour of Reims Cathedral. At Rare Champagne they’ll be welcomed with a private vineyard and cellar tour plus a tasting hosted by the chef de cave, Émilien Boutillat. Their appreciation of rare champagne will be enhanced at a splendid dinner at Résidence Eisenhower featuring a collection of older vintages. Back home, each couple will be able to recreate their experience with a pair of 2008 and 2014 Magnums.

Lot 43: Million Dollar Meal… ALL for the Kids! 

Winning bid: $1 million (40 couples at $25,000 each)

Forty couples will contribute $25,000 each for a once-in-a-lifetime, exclusive dinner at The Surf Club Restaurant at the Four Seasons in Surfside on Nov. 21. Few Florida restaurants have been as hotly anticipated as The Surf Club by Chef Thomas Keller and the 40 couples to bid successfully on this lot will enjoy the best meal of the year with the satisfaction of knowing that all of the money raised will be channeled directly to children in need in Collier Country through NCEF’s grant partners. The experience includes a cocktail and wine reception with passed canapés and an elegant, multicourse wine paired tasting menu. 

Lot 44: La Dolce Vita, Dolce&Gabbana Style 

Winning bid: $480,000

One couple will receive an exclusive, six-night invitation to attend the 2024 Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda event in Italy. Taking place June 30-July 6, the location of the event is still to be revealed. With six nights of luxury accommodations, the winning bidders will enjoy four or five days of exclusive activities including a welcome event, two fashion shows followed by seated dinners, an exhibition and dinner, plus a final celebration party. This is a very exclusive opportunity to partake in an experience that cannot be purchased. Prior to leaving for the trip, the winning couple will receive a $10,000 shopping certificate to use toward Dolce & Gabbana clothing at Saks Fifth Avenue Naples to wear during the event.

Lot 45: The Ultimate Napa Valley Retreat 

Winning bid: $360,000

Three couples will soak in the history and beauty of Somerston Estate in Napa for seven nights. During their week in Napa, they will stay at Archer Hotel and enjoy a succession of spectacular meals throughout the Valley including at Somerston Estate, Brix Vineyards and lunches at kitchen door and Gott’s Roadside. Unique experiences include a cooking class, a round of golf at Silverado Country Club, a charcuterie workshop and a Bacon & Wine Experience at Priest Ranch tasting room. The culmination of the week will be a custom blending session in the cellars of Somerston Estate where they’ll create their own bespoke barrel of Somerston wine that will bear your personal label and will range from 750ml bottles to large formats. In addition, the winning bidders will receive a dazzling collection of Somerston Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Lot 46: Discovering Japan’s Gems with BVLGARI 

Winning bid: $450,000

One couple will indulge in a five-night exploration into the contrasts of Japan. Their home in Tokyo will be the BVLGARI Hotel Tokyo. Indulge in a chocolate making class and take a ride on the shinkansen, or bullet train, to Kyoto for a private guided day trip. You will also experience fine dining at Michelin-starred BVLGARI Il Ristorante Luca Fantin and at Musashi by Aman. If the dates work with their schedule, visit Tokyo during BVLGARI’s 2024 High Jewelry gala, dates yet to be released. Their Tokyo experience will culminate with a private shopping trip at the BVLGARI Boutique in Ginza, where they’ll receive a $25,000 credit toward the purchase of a piece of jewelry of their dreams.

Lot 47: Trustee Treasure Trove 

Winning bid: $420,000

This lot comes together with the very generous support of the NCEF Trustees to create a truly special collection of the best wines from around the world, including library wines, special vintages, large formats and unique bottles. Wines in this lot include California cult wineries such as Harlan, Colgin and Opus One as well as top wines from France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Australia. Also included is a unique 5’ Barbie-inspired “Naples Dreamhouse” created by Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild and Method & Concept and a 219.67ct aquamarine, custom designed into a piece of jewelry with Jason and Todd of the Diamond District. 

Lot 48: Discover the Hidden Wonders of Dubai 

Winning bid: $480,000

One couple will experience an unforgettable five-night visit to the magical desert playground of Dubai. They’ll have a guided tour of a pearl farm on a traditional pearl fishing boat and spend a full day in Abu Dhabi; highlights of their visit will include the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Presidential palace of Qasr Al Watan and Yas Island. Back in Dubai, they’ll have a backstage visit to the Dubai Opera and a close-up view of the desert when they dine at Magic Camps. After a personalized shopping trip, they’ll visit the traditional market of the Spice Souk. As they sip cocktails on the 123rd floor at Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, they’ll watch the sun set over the city of Dubai and marvel at all the wonders they’ve seen.

Lot 49: Harvesting the Garden of the Future 

Winning bid: $600,000

The winner will have some fun on the road with a 1972 Fiat 500 Jolly Conversion convertible in the robin’s-egg hue of Tiffany Blue with tan accents and featuring the original open-air, doorless design with removable top. This lot also guarantees two couples VIP treatment from beginning to end at the 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival with three nights at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. Their Jeroboam Package will grant them access to all events from Thursday’s Grand Crew Party to Sunday’s Celebration Brunch and front-row seating at Saturday’s auction. On top of that, they’ll receive a $25,000 credit toward a purchase at International Diamond Center to acquire a beautiful piece of jewelry. 

Lot 50: Fund a Need – “Putting Down Roots: Early Learning GROWS a Healthy Mind” 

Winning bid: More than $5 million

Everyone who bids on this lot will be a winner, but the biggest winners will be the underserved children of Collier County. This year, the Fund a Need focus is Early Learning, with a special emphasis on Mental Health. Every paddle holder has the opportunity to contribute. Their generous donations will help provide access to support services and early intervention, increasing the resilience in youth and allowing them to maintain mental and overall well-being when faced with adversity.