Top Pinot Noir Auction Continues to Break Records

23/11/06 Salud Oregon's Pinot Noir Auction celebrated its 15th anniversary with animated bidding on unique, premium wines and exciting oral and silent auction items. A record $752,695 was raised, with $166,400 contributed by the barrel auction alone. The two-day event ranks among the Northwest's top fundraisers and was an opportunity to preview wines from the 2005 vintage from 42 of Oregon's premier wine producers.

The event, held November 11 and 12, focused on exclusive Pinot Noirs created by each of the 42 participating wineries. The barrel auction drew bids in excess of $1,000 for the majority of the 168 case lots, with several topping $2,000. The highlight of Sunday's black tie dinner was the Special Appeal paddle raise that generated close to $110,000, jumpstarted by a $32,500 collaborative pledge by the participating vintners.

Co-chairs Danielle Andrus Montalieu, Solena Cellars, and Adam Campbell of Elk Cove Vineyards credited the event's impressive success in part to an increased demand for Oregon Pinot Noirs. Campbell stated: "Our winemakers stepped up with spectacular wines and generous supporters responded with terrific energy. We're seeing an increased awareness of the cause and everyone involved is passionate about Salud." Andrus Montalieu added that: "Oregon vintners have a reputation for independence and this outstanding show of support and respect for a workforce without whom our wines wouldn't be possible, says a great deal for our winemaking community."

Salud provides healthcare outreach services for seasonal vineyard workers and their families. Since this mobile workforce rarely qualifies for health insurance plans, they are unable to receive benefits. To fill this void, a dedicated group of Oregon vintners and volunteers associated with Tuality Healthcare Foundation created a bi-lingual, bi-cultural service calling it Salud, for the traditional Spanish toast "to your health."

Through Salud seasonal workers receive health education, cholesterol and diabetes screenings, dental care, assistance with medical paperwork and more. Referrals are made for necessary medical aid beyond the financial means of most recipients, including quality pre-natal care, hospitalizations and surgeries. In 2005 alone, Salud served over 3,000 qualified individuals.