Grapes for Humanity, a charity focused on supporting sustainable humanitarian and environmental programs, is delighted to announce the 2024 Fine Wine Auction in partnership with Waddington’s Auctioneers and DYMON Wine Cellars. This annual event aims to raise funds for climate action and support underserved communities worldwide. The primary recipients for 2024 will be Tree Canada, The Nature Conservancy of Canada and The Halo Trust.
On April 12, Grapes for Humanity invites the media to a special event from 9 AM to 11 AM at DYMON Wine Cellar, 1460 The Queensway, Etobicoke. This engaging showcase will feature exclusive wine tastings and gourmet hors d’oeuvres, highlighted by contributions from acclaimed local winemakers such as Ann Sperling, Casey Holgan of Southbrook, Adam Lowy of Cloudsley Wineries, Gabe Demarco of Cave Spring and, Thomas Bachelder, who will present a sneak peek of the seven Cuvée From the Heart “micro lots” unique bottling of only 120 bottles of Ontario’s top varietals hand-crafted by 20 of Ontario’s top winemakers. Adding a unique twist to the day, renowned mentalist and chef Haim Goldenberg will offer a taste of his extraordinary auction item—a dinner and show for eight, where culinary artistry meets mentalist intrigue. Haim will be preparing delicious offerings, enhancing the experience with his extraordinary talents.
Steven Campbell, a Grapes for Humanity board member, has orchestrated a groundbreaking collaboration, bringing together 20 winemakers to create seven distinct wines for the auction under a special project called Cuvée from the Heart micro lots. This innovative approach allows wine lovers to have a choice of buying mixed cases of all seven wines or single cases of 12 bottles.
Thomas Bachelder, the lead winemaker/vintner, is overseeing a limited edition of 120 bottles (micro lot) of Cuvée from the Heart wines exclusively for the Grapes for Humanity Canada Fine Wine Auction. Bachelder’s dedication to crafting exceptional wines has made him the perfect choice for this year’s event, and these wines are sure to be a highlight of the auction.
The auction features almost 500 lots in total of which 200 wines are rated 90 and above. It also includes 60 “dream lots” featuring once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to dine with Canadian music icons like Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of RUSH, Jim Cuddy and Colin Cripps of Blue Rodeo and Baseball Legend José Bautista. Additionally, bidders can vie for coveted once-in-a-lifetime trips to Antinori in Italy, Torres in Spain, Catena in Argentina, Raats in South Africa and Felton Road in New Zealand.
Since its inception in 2001, Grapes for Humanity has been dedicated to philanthropy within the wine community. Founded by Tony Aspler, Arlene Willis, and the late Sam Sarick, and supported by its longest-serving board member, Geddy Lee, the organization also benefits from the efforts of seven additional board members, all of whom are dedicated contributors. Together, they volunteer their time and resources to advance the organization’s fundraising endeavours, successfully raising millions of dollars. These funds have supported various initiatives, including landmine clearing, healthcare, education, climate change and more.
Grapes for Humanity Canada is dedicated to making a lasting, positive difference in the lives of the most vulnerable. Their efforts focus on creating sustainable support systems for those facing adversity, promoting education, health, and welfare for individuals in need, and addressing environmental challenges. Through its emphasis on impactful fundraising and partnerships, the charity envisions a future where individuals thrive and communities prosper.
