I arrived in New York City yesterday for a truly special event: the Grapes for Humanity Global Foundation’s “Wine Legends Dinner V.” As the sister organization to Grapes for Humanity Canada, the U.S. chapter, founded in 2003 by Arlene Willis, shares the same passion for wine and philanthropy. This year’s event promised to be an extraordinary evening, and it certainly delivered.
Hotel Minutes Away
Before the evening festivities, my fellow board member and I checked into the Moxy Chelsea, a charming hotel just a short five-minute walk from both our lunch spot and the dinner venue. After settling in, we set out on a quest for lunch, surrounded by the endless restaurant options NYC is known for.
Zaytinya by José Andrés
By pure serendipity, we found ourselves at Zaytinya, a Mediterranean restaurant led by none other than José Andrés. Known for its vibrant flavours and chic atmosphere, Zaytinya offers a menu that blends the rich culinary traditions of Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon, featuring a variety of mezze-style dishes. Later that evening, we’d be dining at another of his renowned restaurants, The Bazaar!
Wine Legends Dinner V
The “Wine Legends Dinner V” was held at The Bazaar, located inside the Ritz Carlton, with a guest list full of passionate philanthropists and wine enthusiasts. Chef José Andrés, who served as the event chair, sent a heartfelt video message from Sarasota, Florida, where he was on the ground with his organization, World Central Kitchen, feeding those affected by the recent hurricanes. His work is a reminder that when disaster strikes, humanitarian needs often require a swift response, something Grapes for Humanity is committed to supporting.
Honourary Chairs for the evening included Marchese Piero Antinori, David Pearson, and Xavier Barlier, each bringing their own unique passion for wine and philanthropy. The event was masterfully organized by Arlene Willis, who co-founded Grapes for Humanity in Canada in 2000 and later expanded it to the U.S. with the founding of the Global Foundation in 2003.
Arlene Willis is a dedicated philanthropist and passionate wine enthusiast, particularly of champagne. Her unwavering commitment to philanthropy has garnered significant support from the international wine community and beyond, enabling the foundation to make a meaningful impact on numerous global initiatives.
Cristal 2007
The evening began with Cristal 2007, generously donated by Frédéric Rouzaud, and several bottles were chilling on ice—Arlene’s favourite way to kick off a celebration. From there, we moved to the upper level of The Bazaar, where the beautifully set tables promised a night of culinary excellence. Every dish was perfectly paired with exceptional wines, creating a magical synergy of flavours.
Below is what we savoured:
- Abalone and Shiitake
Maison Louis Jadot, Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Folatières 2015
- Sea Scallop Crudo
Joseph Drouhin, Beaune Clos des Mouches 2020 Blanc
- Wagyu Carpaccio
Torres, Mas La Plana 2018
- Wagyu Hako Sushi
Vega Sicilia – Valbuena 5, 2016
- Chicken Yakitori
Frescobaldi, Giramonte 2014
- Roasted Kabucha Squash Salad
Antinori, Guado Al Tasso 2021
- Honey Miso Eggplant
La Clarté de Haut-Brion 2021
- Pollo al Ajillo
Clos du Marquis, St Julien 2008
- Striploin and Maitake
Château La Mission Haut-Brion 2005
- Cheese Course
Joseph Phelps, Insignia 2010
- Pan con Chocolate
Opus One 2011
Wine, food, and philanthropy have a remarkable way of bringing people together. Grapes for Humanity’s mission, born from a love of wine, is to channel that passion into supporting global humanitarian action. Last night was a testament to the power of that mission, and I feel privileged to have been a part of it.
The night concluded with an exciting live auction featuring incredible wines and exclusive experiences. All proceeds were directed to the Hospital Albert Schweitzer Haiti (HAS), with CEO Jean Marc de Mattes present to share how the funds raised would transform lives in Haiti. It was a moving end to a spectacular evening.
Stay tuned for more updates from NYC, and of course, more wine adventures!
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!