Tasting Notes: Collective Napa Valley

Collective Napa Valley: Who They Are 

Wine brings people together from all backgrounds and all walks of life. The Napa Valley Vintners, founded in 1944, was established to inspire its members to produce wines of the highest possible quality, to provide environmental leadership, and to care for the place we call home. Collective Napa Valley builds on the local culture of passion and heritage to generously support Napa Valley while celebrating vintners and wine enthusiasts.  

Their history of fundraising for the good of the community is well documented. It began with the creation of Auction Napa Valley in 1981. As this organization evolved, Collective Napa Valley became an exciting new way of supporting the well-being and growth of our community. 

Today, Collective Napa Valley brings together wine lovers from all walks of life — from casual sippers to serious connoisseurs, with a shared passion for doing good (and wine, of course!)  

What Does Collective Napa Valley Do?

The goal of the Collective is to spread the impact of philanthropy throughout Napa Valley. It focuses on supporting important initiatives for health care and youth development. Collective Napa Valley is invested in improving the lives of vulnerable and young residents in the valley while also supporting the local wineries and small businesses that are part of the Napa Valley community. Members of Collective Napa Valley regularly host special events, providing delicious culinary experiences, always paired with a perfectly crafted glass of wine.

Now, that’s something to toast about!

Barrel Auction Weekend: A Celebration of Wine & Community

One of Collective Napa Valley’s most anticipated events, Barrel Auction Weekend, returns June 6–7, bringing together vintners and wine enthusiasts for an unforgettable summer celebration. This two-day event is packed with expertly hosted wine experiences, exclusive barrel tastings, and incredible meals from local restaurants, culminating in a grand celebration honoring non-profit partners, hospitality workers, and the Napa Valley community.

The weekend kicks off on a high note with the Napa Valley Barrel Auction on Friday afternoon. Here, over 70 winemakers showcase their finest selections straight from the barrel. Guests will have the chance to taste these exceptional wines and place bids on their favorites throughout the day.

Here’s what else to expect throughout this year’s Barrel Auction Weekend.

Friday, June 6

Vintner-Hosted Dinners

Imagine an evening where the best of Napa Valley comes together—exceptional wines, exquisite cuisine, and warm hospitality in an intimate setting. At the Vintner-Hosted Dinner, a Napa Valley vintner welcomes you into their home or private cellar for an unforgettable night of storytelling, fine dining, and perfectly paired wines. As you take in the breathtaking vineyard views, you’ll sip on rare and limited-production wines, thoughtfully curated to complement a gourmet meal crafted with the finest local ingredients. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, this experience is a true celebration of Napa’s rich winemaking heritage and sense of community.

Saturday, June 7

Napa Valley Your Way

Spend the afternoon discovering Napa Valley on your terms with Napa Valley Your Way. On Saturday, June 7, you’ll have the unique opportunity to choose a winery that speaks to your curiosity and taste. Whether you’re drawn to a historic estate, a boutique hidden gem, or a renowned name in winemaking, you’ll enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. From guided tastings to in-depth discussions with winemakers, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the craft, culture, and passion that define Napa Valley—all at your own pace.

End your Napa Valley weekend in spectacular fashion at the Dinner & Live Auction Celebration on Saturday, June 7, hosted by Chandon. The evening begins with a sparkling welcome, setting the stage for an unforgettable night alongside some of Napa’s most esteemed vintners and winemakers. Guests will indulge in a meticulously curated dinner by Michelin-starred Chef Christopher Kostow before the excitement shifts to the highly anticipated live auction. With paddles raised and glasses in hand, bidders will compete for rare wines and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—all in support of local health and education initiatives. As the night unfolds, the celebration continues with live music, late-night bites, and, of course, exceptional Napa Valley wines. Expect surprises, camaraderie, and the magic that makes Napa Valley a world-renowned destination for wine, food, and unforgettable moments.

The Auction Napa Valley Legacy Experience

For a truly exclusive experience, consider the Auction Napa Valley Legacy Experience, a luxurious six-hour journey aboard our vintage Pullman rail cars. This package includes:

• A welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Three-course gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dessert served onboard
• All-access pass to the 4-hour Barrel Auction at Louis M. Martini Winery
• Unlimited wine tastings
• Fresh bites from top Napa Valley restaurants
• Live music and entertainment
• Support for local non-profits

Itinerary:

• 10:15 AM | Arrive at McKinstry Street Station for check-in and a welcome mimosa or coffee from the Artist’s Café.
• 10:25 AM | Board the Wine Train, sip a welcome glass of bubbly, and enjoy a gourmet breakfast as you depart.
• 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM | Take in breathtaking vineyard views from our open-air car while savoring seasonal fare.
• 1:00 PM – 4:20 PM | Arrive at Louis M. Martini Winery for the Napa Valley Barrel Auction. Sip, savor, and bid on rare wines while enjoying live music and fresh bites.
• 5:20 PM | Return to the station aboard the Wine Train, where dessert and coffee await. Dance the afternoon away in our 1054 Open Air car as you journey back.

Extend Your Collective Napa Valley Weekend With Wine Train

While you’re in the area, consider extending your stay by booking with one of Napa Valley Wine Train’s partners to experience one of the world’s premier wine regions on a deeper level. Wine Train Adventure on the Riverfront package includes two wonderful nights in a deluxe room at the River Terrace Inn. Enjoy a multiple-course gourmet lunch during a daytime journey aboard the Wine Train, plus a full day of wine-tasting tours accompanied by a picnic lunch. This experience is perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned Napa Valley visitors.

Join us for Barrel Auction Weekend

Want to get in on this fantastic weekend of events? You’ll need to be a member of the Collective. Learn more about the event, become a member, and get your tickets here. 

We can’t wait to see you at the auction!