(June 17, 2024; Healdsburg, CA)–Clay and Carrie Mauritson, founders of Mauritson Wines, are pleased to announce the 14th annual Project Zin event taking place on August 17, 2024 in Sonoma County, CA. Co-hosted alongside James Beard Award-winning Chef Charlie Palmer, Project Zin brings together the region’s top Zinfandel producers and culinary stars for an unforgettable celebration of wine, food, and philanthropy in support of the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area (DSCBA). Held at Bricoleur Vineyards in Windsor, CA, tickets for Project Zin and exclusive lodging packages are available at www.projectzin.org.
Founded in 2010, Project Zin was born from a deeply personal and necessary mission. Inspired by the Down Syndrome diagnosis of Clay and Carrie’s eldest son, Brady, the cause embodies the Mauritson family’s commitment to transforming challenges into catalysts for positive change and inclusivity. What began as an intimate gathering has blossomed into a cornerstone of the Sonoma County community, with the 2023 event raising over $350,000, and a cumulative total of over $2 million to date. Since its inception, funds have been used for advocating and uplifting families navigating similar journeys, and have enabled DSCBA to expand its reach and services.
“The unwavering support throughout the years has been truly humbling, and we are so proud to see how far we’ve come in embracing and uplifting individuals and families that celebrate the uniqueness of anyone within the Down Syndrome community,” says Clay Mauritson. “It’s a testament to the power of what can happen when we all come together with a shared purpose.”
The 2024 event will showcase an impressive roster of 21 of California’s most renowned Zinfandel producers, including A. Rafanelli Winery, Aperture Cellars, BACA Wines, Bedrock Wine Co., Bella Winery, Bricoleur Vineyards, Carlisle Winery, Dry Creek Vineyard, Flambeaux Wine, Gamba Vineyards and Winery, Kokomo Winery, Limerick Lane Cellars, Martinelli Winery, Mauritson Wines, Pedroncelli Winery, Portalupi Wine, Ridge Vineyards, Robert Biale Vineyards, Seghesio Family Vineyards, Turley Wine Cellars and Zialena Winery.
Complementing the exceptional wines being poured is an all-star line-up of local chefs and restaurants. At the helm is the inimitable Chef Charlie Palmer of Dry Creek Kitchen, whose innovative dishes have earned a constellation of Michelin and James Beard awards. He’ll be joined by Kyle and Katina Connaughton of the three Michelin starred SingleThread, Food & Wine’s Best New Chef Dustin Valette of Valette and The Matheson. Additional 2024 participants include John Ash & Co., Little Saint Healdsburg, Molti Amici, Monti’s, The Parish Cafe, Spoonbar, Sweet T’s Restaurant + Bar, Catelli’s, Downtown Bakery and Creamery, Nothing Bundt Cake, Troubadour, Acorn Café, Maison Porcella, Quail & Condor, Volo Chocolate and Taylor Lane Organic Coffee.
In addition to the grand tasting on August 17, the event will feature a high-energy live auction emceed by the incomparable Franco Finn of the Golden State Warriors. Guests will have the chance to bid on truly one-of-a-kind lots, including rare bottles and unique winery experiences, rounded out by a heartfelt paddle raise giving guests the opportunity to contribute directly to DSCBA’s important mission and hear directly from Brady Mauritson as to how Project Zin continues to inspire him year after year.
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, Project Zin offers exclusive VIP lodging packages at nearby luxury hotels including Hotel Healdsburg, h2hotel, and Harmon Guest House. These coveted packages include two nights accommodations, a welcome reception with Clay and Carrie Mauritson, event transportation, and access to an intimate lunch and gathering at the family’s historic Rockpile Ridge Vineyard including a picnic lunch alongside a vertical tasting of Mauritson’s highly sought-after library Zinfandels, each a rare jewel from Clay’s personal cellar.
“Brady’s spirit is a constant source of inspiration, reminding us of the remarkable resilience and joy that reside within us all,” says Carrie Mauritson. “Project Zin is really about celebrating the endless possibilities that exist when a community rallies around a cause. It’s about championing inclusivity, spreading joy, and empowering individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential.”
To ensure you receive the latest updates and reminders, sign up for the Project Zin mailing list at www.projectzin.org/mailing-
About Mauritson Wines
The Mauritson family has been growing grapes in the Dry Creek Valley since 1868, and their exceptional winemaking tradition is currently led by Clay Mauritson, who founded Mauritson Wines in 1998. By harnessing the power of six generations of winegrowing wisdom, longstanding grower relationships, and an intimate understanding of the land, Mauritson Wines has established itself as one of Sonoma County’s benchmark producers of small-lot, appellation-specific wines. Learn more at www.mauritsonwines.com
About Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area
The Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area is a nonprofit organization providing support, education, and resources to empower individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community that serves them. Its life changing programs and services promote independence, self-advocacy and inclusion, helping individuals with Down syndrome lead fulfilling lives and reach their fullest potential. Learn more at www.dscba.org
Websites:
Social Media
- Instagram: @dscba
- Twitter: @dscbayarea
- Facebook: @dscba
