August 11, 2025 (Saint Helena, CA) — Napa Valley’s wine community recently came together to toast the success of Auction Napa Valley 2025 and officially kick off planning for 2026. The gathering also marked the symbolic “passing of the paddle,” as Robin and Michelle Baggett of Alpha Omega winery handed chairing duties to the 2026 honorary chairs, Darioush, Shahpar and Sally Khaledi of Darioush winery. In a nod to its history and legacy, the event took place at Meadowood Napa Valley, Auction Napa Valley’s home of 40 years.
“It’s an incredible honor to serve as chairs of Auction Napa Valley 2026,” said Darioush Khaledi, proprietor of Darioush winery. “We believe deeply that the wine industry’s investment in its community is not just important, it’s essential. We’re inspired by the spirit of generosity that defines this event, and we look forward to bringing people together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Napa Valley’s youth.”
Auction Napa Valley is an extraordinary weekend of world-class wine, food and fellowship, set in the beautiful Napa Valley. What is one of the most incredible weekends of the year in Napa Valley is also a year in the making. The Khaledi family will work closely with fellow wineries and a network of nearly 100 volunteers to plan an unforgettable weekend, set for June 5–6, 2026. Already, 12 wineries have committed live lots for the 2026 auction, with more to come. In 2025, 14 wineries generously donated live lots and more than 300 wineries participated across the weekend, including 50 new NVV member wineries, reinforcing the deep commitment of the region’s vintners to the mission behind the celebration.
The impact of Auction Napa Valley extends far beyond the event itself. Thanks to the generosity of member wineries, global supporters, strategic partners and the local community, Auction Napa Valley continues to make a measurable difference in the lives of Napa Valley residents. Proceeds raised support NVV’s Youth Wellness Initiative, which funds critical programs such as wellness care on school campuses, mental health services, after-school enrichment and summer learning programs. Since Auction Napa Valley began in 1981, NVV has invested $245 million in the community.
Enthusiasts are invited to save the date for June 5-6, 2026 for Auction Napa Valley, the signature event of Collective Napa Valley. Tickets go on sale in January 2026. Coming up next for Collective Napa Valley is the Fine Wine & Experiences online auction in October 2025. Then, in January 2026, Artisans of Wine and Food, a partnership between The Boca Raton and the Napa Valley Vintners, returns.
To learn more about NVV’s community investments, visit napavintners.com. To learn more about Collective Napa Valley, NVV’s year-round philanthropy program, visit collectivenapavalley.org.
About Napa Valley Vintners
The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its nearly 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. NVV has invested more than $245 million in community healthcare, youth development and the environment in Napa County. Learn more at napavintners.com.
