Celebrating 25 years in 2012, the Auction of Washington Wines is the philanthropic organization representing the Washington wine industry and the nation’s largest charity auction showcasing Washington wine.  The event is the industry’s annual gift to its communities across the state, benefiting Uncompensated Care for patients and families at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation. Northwest Wine Benefit Foundation, the official name of the organization,  is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 1988.

Since 1988, Chateau Ste. Michelle has hosted the auction, which has grown dramatically in attendance and dollars raised in each of its 24 years.  In 1988, slightly more than 100 people gathered at the Chateau for the first Auction of Washington Wines, raising more than $20,000. Today, the event is comprised of five events over four days with a total attendance of approximately 3,000 people and a fundraising total of more than $26 million.