Twenty Wineries Poured their Wines to a Sold-Out Crowd While Raising Money for the Local Art Community
October 29, 2025 (Petaluma, CA) — The Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance (PGWA) and the Petaluma Arts Center (PAC) proved that community, creativity, and craftsmanship make the perfect pairing at Wine & Art, held October 25 at Beaumont Farms. The sold-out event drew more than 200 guests who enjoyed 60+ wines from 20 local wineries while celebrating the region’s vibrant arts scene — and raising nearly $10,000 to support the Petaluma Arts Center.
In addition, attendees were able to reward their favorite wines for each of Petaluma Gap’s signature varieties by voting in the People’s Choice Awards. The winners demonstrated both excellence and diversity across the viticultural area.
Best Chardonnay
McEvoy Ranch 2023 Blue Sky Chardonnay, La Cruz Vineyard, Petaluma Gap
Best Pinot Noir
Blue Farm Wines 2014 Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Best Syrah
Kendric Vineyards 2023 Syrah, Petaluma Gap, Marin County
Best Other Variety (White)
Deodora Vineyards 2019 Riesling, Sonoma Coast
Best Other Variety (Red)
Adobe Road 2018 Lichau Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Petaluma Gap
“Last year’s People’s Choice contest brought incredible energy from our guests, so we knew we had to bring it back,” said Cheryl Quist, Executive Director of PGWA. “This year, collaborating with the Petaluma Arts Center added a creative spark that elevated the entire experience — it became more than a tasting; it was a celebration of our local art, agriculture and wine community following the harvest.”
At the heart of the artistic collaboration, PAC Program Manager Maggie Parr curated an imaginative auction of hand-painted wine barrels. The barrels, previously used for making wine from vineyards in the Petaluma Gap viticultural area, were generously donated by Blue Farm, MacRostie, and Keller Estate. Twenty-seven artists transformed the barrels into tributes to Petaluma’s agricultural heritage — ranging from abstract to whimsical — helping raise funds and excitement. “The response was overwhelming,” said Parr. “Guests were inspired by the creativity, and knowing their bids supported local art made it even more meaningful.”
Guests indulged in culinary pairings that showcased the area’s finest: paella by Chef Omar Cruz, cheeses from Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company, bread and pastries from Sarmentine Bakery, a fall-inspired creation from Chef Charlie Palmer’s Appellation team, and wine-infused chocolates by Bert’s Desserts.
The Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance extends gratitude to Sonoma County District 2, Expedia Wine Club Cruise, Ama Waterways, and TricorBraun WinePak for their generous sponsorship, and to event partners Petaluma Arts Center, Beaumont Farms, Thunderstar Stages, The Lavatory, and Event Medic Services for their vital support.
From award-winning wines to inspired artwork and enthusiastic guests, Wine & Art 2025 proved that when Petaluma’s creative and winemaking communities come together, everyone wins.
About the Petaluma Art Center
Petaluma Arts Center (PAC) embodies the belief in the power of art to inspire, educate, and bring people together. Located in the heart of Petaluma, PAC is a vibrant community hub where artists, art lovers, and learners of all ages can explore their creativity and enjoy the transformative power of art. PAC is dedicated to building the community’s creative capacity by making art an increasingly vital and meaningful part of public life. Visit www.petalumaartscenter.org to learn more, view current exhibits, sign up for workshops, and support creativity in our region.
About the Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance
Founded in 2005, the Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance (PGWA) mission is to educate members of the wine trade and consumers about the Petaluma Gap AVA and to increase awareness of the region’s unique growing conditions and resulting wine quality. PGWA additionally supports member winegrowers and vintners within the region through ongoing programs and communications designed to help them maximize their success within the industry. The group’s membership is made up of grape growers, wineries, associate business members, sponsors and local community members with a passion for the region and its wine. Visit www.petalumagap.com to learn more.
