Gay Wine Weekend 2012

To say that the 2nd Annual Gay Wine Weekend organized by Out in the Vineyard, was a smashing success, would be an understatement! Sonoma opened its doors to over 300 visitors for three days of events, and those in attendance could not have felt more welcome. Wineries, restaurants, hotels and shops all across Wine Country showed such gracious hospitality, it is no wonder members of the LGBT and allied communities are flocking to participate in Gay Wine Weekend. Having grown from the Twilight T-Dance, into three days of tours, winemaker's dinners, a cabaret night, and a Big Gay Wine Auction and Recovery Brunch, there is something for everyone.

"Out in the Vineyard" at Atwood Ranch

I have said it before - Mark and Gary of Out in the Vineyard, really know how to put on an event. Once again, the setting, weather and sunset at the Twilight T-Dance, could not have been more perfect. As over 400 guest at Atwood Ranch danced the night away to New York DJ Corey Craig, the breathtaking sunset over the Sonoma Valley painted the perfect backdrop for a night Out in the Vineyard.

The dance floor is filling up as DJ Corey Craig spins the latest dance hits.

The sunset could not have been more breath taking!

Not only was the weekend about having a great time, eating amazing food, and drinking world class wines. It was also about doing good, and giving back to the community. Proceeds of the events benefit Face to Face, Sonoma County AIDS Network, and this year, at the Big Gay Wine Auction alone, approximately $14,000 was raised. Auction lots included wines from all over Wine Country, overnight stays at wineries, day trips and tours and even a winemaker dinner with world renowned winemaker Mark Lyon of Sabastiani Wines. The final tally is still coming in, but Out in the Vineyard projects to have raised $18,000-$20,000 for Face to Face. As Rick Dean, Executive Director of Face to Face pointed out at the auction, funding for agencies like Face to Face is scarce, so to raise nearly $20,000 in a weekend ensures they are able to continue to provide essential services to those in Sonoma County.

Be sure to mark your calendars for June 14-16, 2013. The 3rd Annual Gay Wine Weekend is bound to be the can't miss event of the summer!