Press Releases

Monterey, Calif. - April 20, 2005 - The Monterey Wine Festival Educational Foundation will be holding its 20th Annual Live Scholarship Wine Auction on Saturday, April 30 beginning at 11 a.m. at Ferrante's located in the Monterey Marriott. This year's event once again offers a spectacular Live Auction with a specially prepared brunch in Ferrante's private room with an exclusive view of the Monterey Bay. The auction is sponsored by the Monterey Wine Festival Educational Foundation, with proceeds given to local students in the form of enology, viticulture and hospitality scholarships. To date, more than $250,000 in scholarship funds have been raised at this annual event. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased by calling 831.649.6544 or by visiting www.montereywine.com.

The Monterey Wine Festival Auction was originally established to honor Andre Tchelistcheff and his outstanding contributions to winemaking in California. An endowment that grants annual awards to oenology and viticulture students lives on today in Mr. Tchelisteff's name. A second fund established in 1991 honors Ted Balestreri and Bert Cutino, co-owners of the world-famous Sardine Factory restaurant and leaders in the hospitality industry. A scholarship fund has been established for pioneering winemaker Dr. Richard Peterson, who is credited with helping to found, design and develop The Monterey Vineyard (now Blackstone.) A sought-after 1.5 liter bottle of Screaming Eagle will be one of the special bottles featured at the auction. The objectives of The Monterey Wine Festival Educational Foundation include promoting education and research in the fields of oenology, viticulture and hospitality.

Rare large bottle vintages from Silver Oak, Opus One, Viader, Steltzner and Paradigm are just a few of the exceptional wines that will be available for bidding. In addition to the multitude of fine wines available, there will be an opportunity to bid on vacation getaway packages.

Visit www.montereywine.com for tickets, event details, updates and information. For more information, please call 831.649. 6544 or email info@montereywine.com.