Just over a decade into the Sonoma County Barrel Auction (SoCoBA), this year showcased a dynamic range of wines, marking its evolution into a notable event for the region. The 11th edition was held on May 1-2, bringing together around 300 participants, including vintners, trade professionals, media, and for the first time, select customers. The two-day affair featured a grand tasting followed by a live auction, raising a total of $328,000.
The auction’s highlight came from Ridge Vineyards, which sold a 2024 Fredson Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley for an impressive $27,000. Ryan Johnson, Ridge’s marketing director, expressed gratitude for the response their unique wine received amidst other esteemed Sonoma producers, highlighting the vineyard’s long-standing tradition of crafting single-vineyard wines.
The event centers around the concept of ‘Never Before, Never Again,’ encouraging winemakers to step outside their standard practices. This premise invites creativity and collaboration, resulting in one-off wines that reflect Sonoma County’s diverse appellations and varietals while fostering a spirit of innovation within the wine community. Michael Haney, executive director of Sonoma County Vintners, underscored that these exceptional wines exemplify the community’s collaborative and generous nature.
The 2025 auction featured 59 innovative lots from various producers across the region. Standout wines included a unique collaboration between Williams Selyem and Benovia Winery, presenting a Pinot Noir from the historic Cohn Vineyard, as well as a 100% whole cluster Pinot Noir from Three Sticks. Sightlines, another featured wine, explored a specific section of the Cielo block on the Flowers estate, while Saintsbury showcased its first-ever amphora-fermented Chardonnay.
Unlike other high-stakes auctions like Premiere Napa Valley, SoCoBA maintains a community-first philosophy, focusing more on storytelling and connection over sheer numbers. Haney noted that each year, SoCoBA deepens connections with Sonoma wines, drawing in more buyers eager to explore the region’s offerings.
Since its inception in 2015, SoCoBA has raised over $5 million, funding trade marketing initiatives such as the ongoing #WineIsUs campaign that promotes Sonoma wines to a broader consumer audience.