100% of event net proceeds benefit high-impact cancer research
July 14, 2026 (Napa Valley, CA) — The V Foundation for Cancer Research Wine Celebration Gala & Auction is set for Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the stunning Nickel & Nickel Winery in Oakville, California. The event is proudly sponsored by John Anthony Vineyards and will be hosted by Jay Bilas, ESPN commentator since 1995 and one of college basketball’s most respected analysts. A New York Times bestselling author and recipient of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame’s Curt Gowdy Award, Bilas also serves on the V Foundation Board of Directors.
The Auction will offer 25 experiential lots, with 100% of event net proceeds going directly to lifesaving cancer research through the V Foundation. The full catalog is available here and highlights include:
- Art Basel Meets Penfold Wines: An extraordinary blend of art, luxury, and fine wine, this exclusive experience includes VIP access for four to Art Basel Miami Beach 2026, four nights at the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, private gallery visits, and exclusive Art Week events. The experience concludes with a private Penfolds Grange dinner in Napa Valley for eight, featuring rare wines, a chef-curated menu, and a coveted Penfolds Grange Library Vertical collection.
- Super Bowl LXI Presented by ESPN: Experience Super Bowl LXI like an insider with four tickets to the big game at SoFi Stadium, four nights at the exclusive ESPN VIP Host Hotel, and VIP credentials granting access to premier Super Bowl week events and hospitality experiences. The package also includes four tickets to the renowned Culinary Kickoff and a private Napa Valley culinary experience for six at The Duckhorn Collection, complete with guided wine tastings and a magnum of the iconic Three Palms Merlot.
- His Majesty King Charles III & Aston Martin Owners Club Celebration: Enjoy an exclusive four-night London escape for two centered around the official launch of the Aston Martin Owners Club Yearbook: The Royal Edition. As guests of Aston Martin, you’ll attend invitation-only celebrations at the Royal Automobile Club and The Peninsula London, while immersing yourself in a week of British tradition and luxury. The package also includes a one-year Three Sticks Wine Club membership and a collectible first edition of The Royal Edition.
To attend the 28th annual V Foundation for Cancer Research Wine Celebration, or to learn more about this event, please visit v.org/wine.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded over $458 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to funding the best scientists to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. To learn more, visit v.org.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research Wine Celebration
Since 1999, the V Foundation for Cancer Research Wine Celebration has raised over $180 million for groundbreaking cancer research and related programs. This signature series of events in the stunning Napa Valley demonstrates that commitment, passion and giving become the catalyst for positive change. For more information, please visit v.org/wine.
