V Foundation’s Sonoma Epicurean Raised $3.4 Million For Cancer Research

The clinking of glasses, the hum of happy chatter, and the enticing aromas wafting through the air—it could be the backdrop of any upscale culinary and wine event. However, amidst the ambiance of indulgence and enjoyment lies a resounding triumph of the human spirit and an unwavering commitment to a cause that unites us all— the eradication of cancer. This year's V Foundation Sonoma Epicurean was not just any fundraiser; it's a testament to the collective power of humanity and the hope it holds for a future free from the clutches of this deadly disease. As legendary coach Jim Valvano (Jimmy V) said in his ESPYS speech circa 1993, “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.” Presented by Weather Wines, March 21- 24 marked the 3rd event which was held in Sonoma County Wine Country. Over the 3-day weekend patrons indulged in bespoke experiences that included world class wineries, top chefs, and education around cancer research.

Festivities kicked off on Thursday Night with a reception at Montage Healdsburg followed by Epicurean Winery dinner with award winning chefs, Charlie Palmer, Dustin Valette, David Frakes and Jason Pringle. Each chef teamed up with a Sonoma winery to create a pairing menu showcasing why Sonoma County is known for its food and wine. After dinner guests were escorted over to the Epic After Party at Roof 106 in The Matheson to burn off some calories on the dance floor.

Friday daytime events featured the Artisan Series, where guests enjoyed a variety of fully immersive experiences including an outdoor adventure with “Survivor” winner Ethan Zohn, a day of yoga and wellness activities hosted at Bricoleur Vineyards, and many other unique experiences to select from. Patrons had a few hours to rest and clean up for the Epic Party at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg. Owned by Monica Lopez and family, Bacchus Landing is located at the crossroads of three wine regions which is apropos given the wide variety of vino from Sonoma County being featured. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy 2019 Latin GRAMMY® award winner Nella as she performed hits such as “Voy” and “Volaré” while enjoying wines from WALT, Lasseter Family Winery, Ridge Vineyards, and many more.

Saturday morning events included the Wellness Breakfast and EpiCUREean Symposium, where attendees engaged with V Foundation-funded scientists on the frontlines of cutting-edge colorectal cancer research. The V Foundation has awarded over $8.9 million in research grants focused on colorectal cancers, the leading cause of cancer death for men and second leading for women under age 50.

Saturday night the celebration ended where the weekend began, at the Montage Healdsburg with the Epic Feast & Gala Auction. The event was co-hosted by Shae Cornette, ESPN SportsCenter host, and Devon Still, former NFL standout defensive end and 2015 recipient of the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. Eager guests stretched their arms and grabbed their paddles in preparation for the auction. Who did the V Foundation task with leading the 20-lot auction? Auctioneer and Emmy award-winning radio and TV personality Liam Mayclem. Only a handful of people could have steered the night towards raising millions for cancer which included the evening's top lot at $420,000. A dinner party for 18 at The Matheson in Healdsburg, hosted by Chef/Owner Dustin Valette, Golden Globe award-winning actor Teri Hatcher and TV personality Leslie Sbrocco.

While everyone's a winner with an event raising awareness, hope, and research dollars toward cancer, one story stood out for me. A personal She-Ro of mine was honored at the event. Leslie Sbrocco is a wine & food personality, author, 4-time Emmy and James Beard Award-winning television host, colorectal cancer survivor, and overall beautiful human. The latter was proven further with Sbrooco’s story of her response to learning she had colon cancer:

“When I was first diagnosed with colon cancer in March 2021, I saw on the report the words ‘stage 4 metastatic colon cancer.’ A terrible and scary diagnosis, but the one word that stuck out to me was CAN. I dubbed the phrase, ‘I am the CAN in CANcer’ and told my whole medical team that WE CAN beat this. I’ve lived that mantra the last three years saying to myself repeatedly that I CAN! Having a positive mental attitude, being resilient in the face of immense challenges, and being grateful each day, has helped get me to the point of remission.”

As the tears came down, the wine flowed, and the final number dropped, and we all realized that 3.4 million was raised for cancer research. But looking around the room I think the feeling was that we ended up raising the hope of countless more.

About The V Foundation

The V Foundation’s wine country events have raised nearly $170 million for cancer research over the last 25 years. Since the V Foundation’s inception in 1993, the organization has awarded over $353 million in cancer research grants to world-class scientists at top cancer centers nationwide.

The 4th annual V Foundation Sonoma Epicurean weekend will take place March 20-23, 2025. For more information, please visit sonomaepicurean.v.org.