Wheels, Water, Wings…and the Stars!

For 2017, Robb Report magazine contributed to the Naples Winter Wine Festival and its mission to help young ones in need with a lavish lot (No. 46) that comprises four once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In the package titled Wheels, Water, Wings…and the Stars!, the winning bidder will be treated to an A-list automotive affair, a refined river cruise, a premier wine pairing, and private access to one of television’s most popular shows.

Scheduled to take place in fall, Robb Report’s annual Car of the Year event has become a reader favorite and highly respected accolade among the automobile industry. The publication extended the invitation for one couple to join the editorial team in Napa Valley, Calif., for two nights at a top-tier resort and fine dining at elite wineries. During the day, one individual will have the opportunity to test drive and judge a selection of the finest newly released, high-end sports cars for the April issue in 2018.

Prior to the Napa Valley visit, the same two individuals will be able to bring along another couple on a 10-day voyage down the Danube River in Europe from April 22 to May 2, 2017. The roundtrip tour, aboard the Crystal Mozart, begins and ends in Vienna, Austria, and features stops in Germany, Slovakia, and Hungary. Complimentary amenities include two penthouse suite accommodations, one shore excursion in every port, and all onboard drinks and dining.

Next, it’s back to Napa for an eight-person wine-paired culinary adventure at RiverHouse by Bespoke Collection—a tasting venue and art gallery pouring selections from celebrated Blackbird Vineyards. Also presented will be an Imperial (6-liter bottle) of Blackbird’s Bordeaux-style blends Illustration, Paramour, and Contrarian, along with a one-year membership to the winery’s BlackMail wine club.

As delightful dénouement, the couple will travel to Tinseltown to meet the cast of the hit comedy “Modern Family” and sit in on the table reading of an episode from the eighth season. Guide to all the lights, camera, and action of the set will be the show’s co-creator and executive producer, Steve Levitan. The package propelled bidding to $160,000. (napleswinefestival.com)