Tonight, the 2024 Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition winners were honored at the annual Champion Wine Auction & Dinner at NRG Center. Eager enthusiasts came together for this electrifying annual gathering, witnessing the auction of these extraordinary award-winning wines, and both Grand Champion Best of Show and Reserve Grand Champion Best of Show broke previous auction records.
The 2024 Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition Grand Champion Best of Show, Beau Joie Brut Champagne AOC, NV sold for $335,000 and was purchased by Laura & Matthew Hogue – Hogue Landscape Services, Andrea Bryant, in memory of Bruce, Fidelis New Energy and John M. Cotterell.
The 2024 Reserve Grand Champion Best of Show, Smith-Madrone Riesling, Spring Mountain District, 2018, was purchased for $225,000 by Sire Spirits, J Alan Kent Development – Julie & Alan Kent, Andrea & Scott Fish and Randa & Ray Gilliam.
The prestigious auction highlighted a remarkable selection of 62 lots, and auctioned off 471 wines, each distinguished through the Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition. The auction unfolded as guests enjoyed an elegant seated 4-course white glove gala-style dinner. Tables, ranging from $9,000 to $25,000, provided an exclusive experience for patrons immersed in the world of fine wines.
A silent auction ran concurrently, adding an extra layer of excitement and opportunities for attendees. The synergy between the main auction and the silent auction created a captivating atmosphere, making the event a standout celebration of exquisite wines.
The Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition attracts the best wine producers globally, making the selection process a true testament to the quality of wines presented. Of the 2,985 entries, the countries with the most entries were the United States, Italy and Chile. Of those entries, 539 entries were from Texas wineries, and 161 entries came from this year’s featured region, Chile, which has a long history in the production of wine, with roots dating back to the 16th century.
For more information on the Rodeo Uncorked! visit rodeohouston.com/wine.
About the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $600 million to the youth of Texas and education. The 2024 Rodeo is scheduled for Feb. 27 – March 17. The 2024 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, presented by Cotton Holdings, is scheduled for Feb. 22 – 24. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and follow @RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.