PORTLAND, Ore. (May 16, 2025) – The Willamette Valley Wineries Association (WVWA) is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the Ninth Annual Willamette Valley Wine Auction, held May 14–15, 2025. With a reimagined two-day format and the debut of both sparkling wines and single-case bidding increments, this year’s event raised an impressive $614,115 through sponsorship, ticket sales, and lot sales to support WVWA’s marketing, branding, and education initiatives.
More than 80 trade bidders from 35 states and three countries participated in the auction, bidding both online and in person for 70 exclusive lots from the highly acclaimed 2023 vintage. For the first time, a select group of wine collectors joined trade attendees on day one to preview featured lots and participate in the online auction. On day two, the live auction brought together trade bidders competing for one-of-a-kind wines, available exclusively through resale by the winning bidders.
Auction Highlights
- Top Lot: Lot #32 2023 Alexana Mosaic – In Blue Pinot noir – $30,000
- Lot #24: 2023 Antica Terra Alder Creek Pinot noir – $25,000
- Lot #18 2023 Bethel Heights Kaleidoscope Chardonnay – $18,000
- Highlight Lot from the Online Auction: It Takes A Valley – $10,000 (A multi-day auction lot for four offered rare, behind-the-scenes access to Willamette Valley wine country, with private tastings, vineyard stays, and immersive winemaker experiences. Learn more)
The average lot price for the trade-only auction reached $10,774, and the average bottle price soared to $180—the highest ever recorded for the live auction (compared to the previous high of $160 per bottle in 2019).
The two-day celebration began on May 14 with The Whimsy Experience at Abbey Road Farm, where trade and collector guests enjoyed 39 auction wines—many of them sparkling debuts— alongside cuisine from top local chefs, live music, and educational seminars. Thirty-nine lots were also offered for online bidding, with standout results including the It Takes A Valley highlight lot.
On May 15, The Wonder Experience at the Domaine Serene Clubhouse welcomed trade bidders for an intimate, high-energy in-person auction featuring a seasonal lunch from acclaimed Portland chef Aaron Barnett of St. Jack. Spirited bidding was led by renowned auctioneer Charles Antin of Zachys, whose dynamic style sparked lively competition and cheers throughout the afternoon. Collaborative winemaker pairs took the stage to present their wines among the 31 live lots, adding to the excitement and community spirit.
“The caliber of wines showcased this year was nothing short of world-class,” said Joshua Wludyka, Auction Chair and Brand Director at Lingua Franca. “These wines represent the depth, diversity, and precision of Willamette Valley winemaking— each one a testament to the remarkable talent and terroir of our region. We’re incredibly grateful to the attendees, bidders, and supporters who helped bring this celebration to life. Your participation ensures that the Willamette Valley continues to shine on the world stage.”
The 2023 vintage has already earned praise for its balance, freshness, and complexity—thanks to a cooler start to the season followed by ideal ripening conditions. All wines in the auction were crafted exclusively for this event, showcasing the Valley’s distinct AVAs, innovation, and craftsmanship.
For full results and lot details, visit willamettewines.auction
About Willamette Valley Wineries Association
The Willamette Valley Wineries Association (WVWA) is a non-profit industry association dedicated to achieving recognition for Oregon’s acclaimed Willamette Valley as a premier Pinot noir–producing region. Currently, the WVWA has more than 400 members representing wineries, vineyards, industry, and hospitality businesses throughout the Willamette Valley region. To learn more about the Willamette Valley Wineries Association, visit willamettewines.com.
