About Us

The New York International Wine Auction is acknowledged as a premier wine and culinary event, and more importantly is regionally recognized as a major charitable wine auction. NYIWA attracts wine enthusiasts and supporters from all over the United States to the beautiful Otesaga Resort Hotel in picturesque and historic Cooperstown, NY.

The auction features wines from every major growing region of the world. Bidders at NYIWA are consistently given the opportunity to obtain the best names in wine. Large format bottles, verticals, and rare acquisitions have become the standard for the event. In addition to the great wine auction items, NYIWA also offers for bid — trips, jewelry, and other fine lifestyle items.

Each year, an international wine tasting occurs during the silent auction. Following the tasting, a five-course gourmet dinner is prepared by the Otesaga’s Executive Chef David McLean Lockwood and paired with outstanding wines by Sommelier Johannes Neckermann. A live auction occurs during dinner, which is conducted by David Reynolds of Reynolds & Buckley, LLC, of San Francisco, CA.

The New York International Wine Auction benefits the Herkimer Area Resource Center located in Herkimer, New York. HARC is a not-for-profit organization that serves and advocates for people with mental retardation and other disabilities. Daily, over 600 people and their families receive medical, residential, counseling, vocational, clinical, therapeutic, family, and transportation services. HARC’s voluntary board of directors is comprised of members of the local community and includes people with disabilities and family members of people with disabilities.

NYIWA Auction Director Tony Vennera says he is inspired each year by the continuing generosity of the top wineries and individuals in the United States to support the work the human service agency does on behalf of people with disabilities. "We created a unique fundraising event; it attracts donors from an area that at times seems overwhelmed with groups soliciting funds for very worthwhile organizations. It is a humbling experience to accept these wonderful donations to support the work we do here in Central New York”.

From its modest beginnings in 1996, NYIWA has enjoyed great and growing success. In 2007 the event netted over $84,000. Proceeds are used to cover the cost of vital programs, which are not reimbursed at either state or federal levels.

Please join us on Saturday November, 15, 2008 to make NYIWA's 13th Annual New York International Wine Auction.