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5th Annual Wine Tasting fundraiser set for Thursday

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  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 7:17 GMT by Eagle-Tribune

The 5th Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser: A Night of Vines, Community, and Giving

On Thursday, the picturesque town of Eagle Falls will transform its town hall into a boutique vineyard, inviting locals, wine lovers, and philanthropists to sip, savor, and support a worthy cause. The Eagle Tribune’s coverage of the event, titled “5th Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser Set for Thursday”, outlines the event’s schedule, its philanthropic purpose, and the community’s growing enthusiasm for a gathering that blends culture, charity, and camaraderie.

The Basics: When, Where, and Why

• Date & Time: Thursday, September 19, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
• Venue: Eagle Falls Town Hall, 124 Main Street, Eagle Falls. The spacious lobby, with its high ceilings and modern décor, has been chosen for its accessibility and capacity to accommodate a wine tasting tent and a silent auction table.
• Admission: Tickets are priced at $35 per adult, with a discounted rate of $25 for seniors, students, and members of the Eagle Falls Historical Society. Early‑bird tickets (purchased before September 1) are available at $30.
• Proceeds: All net proceeds will benefit the Eagle County Food Pantry, a local nonprofit that distributes food and essential supplies to families in need. The pantry’s annual operating budget is $350,000, and the fundraiser is projected to raise at least $15,000, covering roughly 4% of its yearly expenses.

The event’s organizer, the Eagle Falls Community Foundation, has announced that this is the fifth consecutive year of a wine‑driven charity night. “Wine has always been a way for us to bring people together,” says foundation president Maria Lopez. “We’re proud to see the community’s support grow year over year, and this year we’re thrilled to partner with some of the region’s best wineries.”

The Wine Lineup: Local Vineyards Take Center Stage

Three local wineries are slated to supply their signature wines for the tasting:

1. Blue Ridge Vineyards – Known for their robust Cabernet Sauvignon and crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Blue Ridge will present a special “Founders’ Blend” exclusive to the fundraiser.
2. Mountain Springs Winery – Their award‑winning Pinot Noir will be highlighted in a “Wine & Cheese Pairing” station.
3. Eagle Creek Cellars – The cellar’s popular Rosé will be offered alongside a selection of artisanal crackers and local cheese from the Eagle Falls Artisan Cheese Co.

Each wine station will feature a certified sommelier who will give guests a brief overview of the vineyard’s history, the grape varietals, and tasting notes. Participants are encouraged to sample all three wines, with a tasting fee of $10 included in the ticket price. A complimentary glass of sparkling water will be available for guests who prefer non‑alcoholic options.

Events Beyond the Grape

While wine tasting is the headline, the evening is packed with entertainment and fundraising activities:

• Live Music: Local band “The Rustic Notes” will play acoustic folk and jazz standards from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Silent Auction: A curated selection of local artworks, handmade jewelry, and a weekend getaway to a neighboring lodge will be auctioned. All proceeds go to the food pantry.
• Raffle Draw: Guests can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a 50‑hour “Private Vineyard Tour” with one of the participating wineries.
• Guest Speaker: A brief talk by the pantry’s executive director, Kevin Ramirez, will provide insight into the pantry’s impact and the community’s role in sustaining it.
• Kids’ Corner: A mini art station featuring wine‑themed coloring pages will keep younger guests engaged.

The event also features a dedicated photo booth with vintage wine barrels and a backdrop of the Eagle Falls skyline. Photos will be shared on social media using the hashtag #WineForGoodEagleFalls.

Community Impact: How the Fundraiser Supports Those in Need

The Eagle County Food Pantry has been serving the community since 2010, distributing over 200,000 meal kits annually. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, the pantry expanded its operations, and the fundraiser’s proceeds are earmarked for:

• Purchasing high‑protein, nutrient‑dense foods that cater to low‑income families.
• Providing a new refrigeration unit to preserve perishable items.
• Funding transportation vouchers that enable clients to travel to the pantry’s distribution sites.

“Every dollar helps us keep our shelves stocked and our volunteers supported,” Ramirez explains. “The wine fundraiser is a perfect blend of community spirit and tangible help.”

How to Get Involved

• Purchase Tickets: Tickets can be bought online via the town’s ticketing portal, available at https://www.eagletribune.com/events/wine-tasting-fundraiser. Early‑bird tickets expire on September 1, after which regular pricing applies.
• Volunteer: The foundation seeks volunteers for event setup, ticketing, and table management. Interested individuals can sign up through the volunteer page on the foundation’s website.
• Donate: Those unable to attend can still contribute. Direct donations to the pantry can be made online at https://www.eaglecountyfoodbank.org/donate.
• Spread the Word: Share the event on social media, invite friends and coworkers, and encourage local businesses to sponsor a tasting station.

A Look Ahead: The Future of the Fundraiser

Past events have seen a steady increase in attendance and donations. In 2023, the fundraiser generated $12,500, and in 2024, $14,000. The community foundation’s goal for 2025 is to surpass $15,000, a target that would cover the pantry’s most urgent needs for the remainder of the year.

“We’re optimistic,” says Lopez. “The community’s generosity has been astounding, and we believe that this year’s event will set a new record.”

Conclusion

The 5th Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser promises an evening of fine wine, community spirit, and meaningful impact. By coming together, residents of Eagle Falls not only indulge in local vintages but also play a direct role in feeding families and sustaining one of the county’s vital resources. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking to support a good cause, Thursday’s gathering offers an opportunity to taste, share, and give back.

Mark your calendars, purchase your tickets early, and join the town in raising a glass for good. For more details and to secure your spot, visit the event page at https://www.eagletribune.com/news/minutes/5th-annual-wine-tasting-fundraiser-set-for-thursday/article_0b4ba2c8-feee-468d-a6fc-d2883d61c4ca.html.