Sumptuous wines, breathtaking artwork, and once-in-a-lifetime trips — the 2022 Wine & Food Festival live and silent auction items must be seen to be believed! Be sure to review Auction Rules Without Reserve.

Live Auction Items

Master of Ceremonies and Commentator: Stella Fong

Auctioneer: Merton Musser, Musser Brothers Auctioneers

  1. Heads or Tails

MSU Billings will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027 – play Heads or Tails and help us build the Wine & Food Festival 100th Anniversary Endowment – our goal is $100,000 for the 100th anniversary!

Stand up and have a great time – and possibly win!

  1. Bookwalter Mixed Case of Red Wine, Four Bottles Each of 2018 Suspense, 2018 Protagonist, and 2017 Conflict, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by Doug Kirby, Owner, 24th Street State Liquor Store

These are three of Bookwalter’s premium red blends. The 2018 Suspense is 83% Cabernet Franc and 17% Merlot. It was rated 92 by Dunnuck. The 2018 Protagonist is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah, and 3% Petit Verdot. Dunnuck rates it at 94 and says “[it] will evolve beautifully for 15+ years.” The 2017 Conflict is comprised of 60% Merlot , 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot. Dunnuck rates the Conflict at 91.

  1. Joseph Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru, 2018, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by Jim and Lin Roscoe

“The Moulin de Vaudon, the property of Joseph Drouhin, is an 18th century watermill straddling the Serein River, close to the Grand Cru vineyards of Chablis… Starting with the 2008 vintage, the name Vaudon was associated [by Domaine] Joseph Drouhin [with] all its Chablis wines as a sign of the firm’s allegiance to this historical terroir.” Vaudésir is one of the seven official climates of the Chablis Grand Cru appellation. Veronique Boss-Drouhin says the 2018 is “an exquisite wine often drunk on its own as an aperitif.” Wine Enthusiast calls it “[a] big, bold wine,” and rates it 96. It is 100% Chardonnay.

  1. Magical Orcas Island

Five-day condominium stay

Accommodations for up to four people

Dates: Available October 1, 2022 – April 30, 2023

Transportation not included

Donated by Sue and Eakle Barfield

Orcas Island is a magical mixture of arts and culture, lush forests, pristine lakes and endless outdoor possibilities. Known as the “gem of the San Juans,” the island offers hiking, biking, kayaking, golfing, boating, fishing…and relaxation! Take time to explore Moran State Park or enjoy the expansive marine vistas from the summit of Mount Constitution.

Enjoy five glorious days in a luxurious two-bedroom condominium, just 50 yards from the beach. The magic is endless – from the beautiful sunrises to the spectacular sunsets – Orcas Island is a dream come true.

  1. Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon, one bottle each of 1993, 2002, and 2010, 3 x 750 ml

Donated by Margit Thorndal

In 1994, Robert Parker wrote, “Leonetti Cellars is an expert at turning out decadently rich, full-bodied, classic Cabernets that are among the two or three best produced in the state of Washington, and among the top dozen Cabernets made in America.” Apparently he maintained this view as the Wine Advocate rated the 2002 Leonetti 95 and the 2010 a 97. Wine Enthusiast rated both a 94.

  1. Dinner with
    MSU Billings Chancellor Stefani Hicswa

Dinner and wine for five couples at the Chancellor’s home

Donated by Chancellor Stefani Hicswa

Five lucky couples will enjoy a dinner with our Chancellor, Stefani Hicswa, at her home. Enjoy a relaxing evening of fine foods paired with delicious wines. Bid on your chance to join this incredible party!

  1. Winemaster Lot

Rodney Strong Single Vineyard Rockaway Cabernet Sauvignon, 2015, 3.0 liter

Wine Enthusiast rates this wine 92. Wilfred Wong of Wine.com rates it 94 and says it compares well with top Bordeauxs: “The 2015 Rodney Strong Rockaway recalls some of the best wines from the Pauillac region of the Médoc.” A double magnum.

  1. Experience Napa Valley…

Air to and from Sacramento

Accommodations for two for three nights

Private tour and tastings at Beringer Winery, Etude Winery and Beaulieu Vineyards for two

Dates: This trip is available April 1, 2022 – April 1, 2023

Donated by Albertsons and Treasury Wine Estates

Wine lovers, here is your rare opportunity to experience private tastings at three of Napa Valley’s most awarded and historical properties! Beringer Winery, California’s longest continuously operating winery, established in 1876; Etude Winery, founded by Tony Soter in 1970; and, Beaulieu Vineyards, founded in 1900 by George De Latour, and made famous through wines of “The Maestro” André Tchlistcheff.

You and a companion will enjoy three nights’ accommodations and lunch at one of the properties, and exclusive discounts on retail and wine purchases at each winery are included. Enjoy the beautiful vineyards, the quaint surroundings and, of course, the fantastic wines! Relax, sip, savor…

*Excludes “Bottle Rock Weekend in Napa”

  1. Brick House Vineyard Pinot Noir Les Dijonnais,
    6 bottles each of 2014, 2015, and 2016, 18 x 750 ml

Donated by MSU Billings Foundation Board of Trustee Jodi Delahunt Hubbell and Todd Hubbell

Wine maker Doug Tunnel is an organic and biodynamic farming pioneer in Oregon, having achieved organic status in 1990 and Demeter certification in 2005. The name Les Dijonnais refers to the fact that the wine is 100% Pinot Noir from the Dijon clone.

The Wine Advocate writes, “…the 2014 Pinot Noir les Dijonnais [is] a gorgeous wine that [is] utterly harmonious and compelling. It will be fascinating to see if it ages with the same aplomb as its 2006 counterpart, still cruising along and giving so much pleasure at ten years of age. Brick House comes recommended…”, and rates it 93. Wine Enthusiast rates it 94 and makes it a “cellar selection.”

Wine Enthusiast rated the 2015 a 95 and made it an “Editors Choice.” Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator both rated it 94.

  1. Sunlit Calm, by Karen Lynette Johnson

Framed original oil on wood

Finished piece measures 24” x 48”

Donated by Karen Lynette Johnson

Billings artist Karen Lynette Johnson continues to capture the natural wonders of Montana – its wide open spaces, incredible big sky, peaceful and calming landscapes. Through her artistry, Karen takes you to the riverbank… hear the water rolling and feel the warm sunshine…all is well.

  1. Ovid Hexameter, 2017, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

The 2017 Hexameter is comprised of 47% Cabernet Franc, 41% Cabernet Savignon, and 12% Merlot. Dunnuck rates it 94 and says “it has a terrific, spicy, complex style… and a great finish.”

  1. Marchesi Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Bolgheri Superiore, 2018, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Guado al Tasso Bolgheri Superiore is a Super Tuscan that was first released in 1990. Its grapes are sourced from Tenuta Guado al Tasso, a vineyard in Bolgheri. The blend varies, but the 2018 is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 18% Merlot. As is the case with most premium Antinori wines, this one is highly rated: both the Wine Advocate and James Suckling rate it 96.

  1. What’s Cooking?

Private cooking class for up to six with wine pairings for each course in the lucky bidder’s home

Date: Class to be scheduled for a mutually agreed upon date and time between Chef Lisa and lucky bidder.

Donated by Zest Kitchen + Cookware / Seconde Fresh Pasta, Dr. Joe Howell, Bill Brown & Amy Gibler Brown

“Good Eating, Made Simple” is the motto of Zest Kitchen +  Cookware. Be the lucky bidder to win this unique culinary experience! Chef Lisa will provide you and up to five of your friends with a private cooking class in your home. Slice, dice, grate, sauté – have fun while learning new cooking techniques with the use of cool equipment that will take your cooking to a whole new level! Add to that, wines to accompany your meal. What a perfect way to have fun, learn, and savor delicious foods and wines.

  1. Chief Gustov, by Parker Ford

Original ink and acrylic on canvas

Finished piece measures 20” x 30”

Donated by Parker Ford

Billing artist Parker Ford’s original creation is a true gem. This beautiful piece will grace your home, cabin or office – wherever you place it, it will be a great conversation piece. Truly a work of art to be treasured.  

  1. Fleur de Miraval Non-Vintage Rosé Champagne, 9 x
    750 ml

Sponsored by past Wine & Food Festival Chairs Dona Hagen, Dottie Hollatz, Pat Petersen, Donna Sweeney, Susan Schwidde, Billie Ruff, Sharon Weatherwax-Ripley, Ben Ripley, Cara Schaer, Evelyn Noennig, Jane Howell, Joe Howell, Stella Fong, Susan Carlson, Joan McCoy, Kay Berry, Amy Gibler Brown, Randy Holbrook, Susan Walton, Sheila Christopherson, Stacey Suydam, Norma Cleveland Boyd

This is the debut release of a wine created by a collaboration of the Pitt-Jolie, Perrin, and Péters families. The wine is 25% rosé de saignée and 75% Chardonnay. The champagne is aged on lees for three years in the dark cellars in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Champagne is particularly sensitive to sunlight, and the Fleur de Miraval bottle is lacquered to prevent exposing the wine to light. Rodolphe Péters said, “It is also a very exclusive wine, as only 20,000 bottles have been produced for the first edition.” Rated 94 by Decanter and Wine Spectator, and 93 by Wine Advocate.

  1. Schrader Beckstoffer Las Piedras LPV Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Schrader’s LPV comes from Beckstoffer’s Los Piedras vineyard, produced from 337 clone grapes growing on the C block. Both Dunnuck and the Wine Advocate have reviewed it; Dunnuck rates it 96-98, while Wine Advocate rates it 95-97.

  1. Blue and Orange Mania!

Two nights’ accommodations for two at the Crawford Hotel in Denver, Denver Broncos tickets for two

Dates: Lucky bidder can choose from a variety of regular season home games – mutually agreed upon with donor

Transportation not included

Donated by Greg and Eileen McDonald/McDonald Land Development

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Exciting things are happening in Denver! Here is your opportunity to see new Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson suit up in blue and orange. A game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High is always exciting and high energy! You and a friend will have the opportunity to cheer on the Denver Broncos as they take to the gridiron. Pack your blue and orange and join in the fervor as the Broncos fans shake the stadium on game day!  

Enjoy two nights’ accommodations at the Crawford Hotel, one of Denver’s luxury hotels, located near the iconic Denver Union Station. Mile High Mania!

  1. Emigrant Peak in Winter, by John Armstrong

Framed original oil painting

Finished piece measures 16”x 20”

Donated by MSU Billings alumnus John Armstrong ’88 and Q’s Art & Framing

A dusting of snow on the mountain peaks, the wide open spaces, the blue Montana sky, and the calm of the rolling river. Billings artist John Armstrong captures the wintery beauty of Emigrant Peak – one of the most beautiful areas in Montana. Truly, Montana is the last best place!!

  1. Savor the Buffalo Block Experience

Donated by Buffalo Block Steakhouse

Enjoy a fabulous evening with a private multi-course tasting at Buffalo Block Steakhouse. Hand-selected wine pairings will be chosen by General Manager Mitch Fox to complete each course offering. Sit back and enjoy a night downtown for you and three guests, and soak in the ambiance that Buffalo Block has to offer.

*Date to be mutually agreed upon. Weekends exluded.

  1. Joseph Drouhin Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, 2018, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by Petersen family in memory of Larry Petersen, Chuck Hingle, Holland & Hart LLP, John Crist, Crist, Krogh, Alke & Nord PLLC

Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru wines are made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes grown within the village’s 24 officially classified premier cru vineyards. The 2018 Drouhin Chambolle-Musigny is “savory and classic” in style. James Suckling gives it 94 points but says it needs to age: “Drink after 2023.” Allen Meadows gives it 91 to 93 points while John Gilman rates it at 92.

  1. At Noon Within Willow Shadow, by Neil Jussila

Finished piece measures 34” x 52”

Donated by Neil Jussila

Neil Jussila is a professor emeritus and a Vietnam veteran who received a combat infantryman badge. His work, set against the backdrop of the Montana landscape, is about being fully alive in the moment. The many shades of blue, green and gold perfectly represent the inspirational beauty of Montana.

  1. Winemaster Lot

Rodney Strong Single Vineyard Alexander’s Crown Cabernet Sauvignon, 2015, 3.0 liter

Decanter World Wine Awards rated this wine 96 at a January 2021 tasting. Wine Enthusiast rated it 93 and said “this lush wine is gracefully lengthy and powerful in weight.” A full double magnum.

  1. “Fly Like an Eagle” with the Steve Miller Band in Woodinville!

Two nights’ accommodations at Willows Lodge in Woodinville, Washington

Two reserved-seating tickets for the Chateau Ste Michelle Summer Concert Series featuring the Steve Miller Band on Sunday, August 28, 2022

Dates: August 27 & 28, 2022

Transportation not included

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Check into the Willows Lodge on August 27, 2022, for two nights in this intimate, award-winning lodge. A landmark of Northwest luxury in the heart of Woodinville wine country. Willows Lodge offers comfortable rooms with fireplaces and soaking tubs, award-winning restaurants with wine cellars to match and a world-class spa.

On Sunday, August 28, prepare for an incredible evening concert experience at the Chateau Ste Michelle Winery open-air venue. Rock to Steve Miller Band hits like “Jet Airliner,” “Abracadabra,” ‘Fly Like an Eagle” and “Rock ‘N Me” – how much fun will it be to go back in time, sing, dance and rock on?

  1. Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2017, 6 x 1.5 L

Sponsored by The Reno Club

The 2017 is the standard Silver Oak blend of about 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. James Suckling says, “This is a big upgrade in finesse and clarity to such a popular, premium Cabernet from Napa.” He rates it 96. In 2017, wildfires raged in Napa. Fortunately, Silver Oak avoided them by harvesting during the cool stretch that followed Labor Day weekend. The result is a gorgeous wine that one would expect from Silver Oak. Six magnums.

  1. Penfold’s Grange, 2014, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

The 2014 Grange is 98% Shiraz and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine advocate writes “Rich, concentrated and intense, the 2014 Grange delivers exactly what we’ve come to expect from this Penfolds icon wine.” and rates at 98. The Wine Spectator calls it “indulgent” and also rates at 98.

  1. Missouri River Adventure

Three Day Adventure for two people – three days and two nights exploring the famed White Cliffs section of the Missouri River, accommodations, all meals

Dates: June 22-24, 2022

Transportation to and from Fort Benton not included

Donated by Missouri River Outfitters

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

 The “White Cliffs” section of the Missouri River has been characterized by many as a “once in a lifetime experience” and “unforgettable.” When the famed Lewis and Clark expedition passed through this stretch of river in May of 1805, Captain Lewis was awestruck by the scenery as he exclaimed, “It seemed as those scenes of visionary enchantment would never have an end.”

This adventure consists of canoeing, with the current, a 42-mile stretch through the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, one of the last stretches of the river that has remained mostly unchanged since the days of Lewis and Clark. The trip is outfitted by the famous Missouri River Outfitters, who provide all of the gear, camp set-up and tear-down, food, cooking, beverages, and transportation to and from the put in and take out points.

A special note: the guide on this trip will be MSU Billings Montana history professor Dr. Keith Edgerton. Keith has taught American and Montana History at MSU Billings for 28 years and currently serves as chair of the History Department. Keith has been a guide with MRO for nearly 20 years and is a Lewis and Clark aficionado. The trip includes a number of day hikes, numerous stops each paddling day for geological, historical, flora and fauna discussions, evening happy hours, nightly camp fires with Lewis and Clark readings and plenty of time for solitude and reflection in one of Montan’s and America’s great natural treasures. Truly a trip of a lifetime.

  1. Penfolds Bin 98 Quantum Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

The 2018 Quantum Cab is labeled a “wine of the world” in that 87% of the grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon from the Oakville and Diamond Mountain districts of Napa while 13% of the grapes are Shiraz from South Australia. The Quantum Cab bears a distinct resemblance to Grange, to wit, both are blends of grapes from a variety of elite vineyards, both are fermented exclusively on new oak, and both share the same price point and very similar ratings. Wine Advocate, Wine.com, James Suckling, and the Somm Journal rate this wine 97+, 98, 98, and 100, respectively.

  1. Crow Tipis at Sunrise, by Kevin Red Star

Framed signed original acrylic on archival paper

Finished piece measures 16” x 15 ½”

Donated by Kevin Red Star

Kevin Red Star’s art is honored throughout North America for its authenticity. It presents a shining vision of centuries-old Crow (Apsaalooka) culture through the eyes of a thoroughly contemporary consciousness. His work is equally respected in the world of museums and private collections for his unique imagery and artistic productivity, and for the enduring value of his work.

  1. Schrader Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard RBS Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Dunnuck says “the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard RBS [is] full bodied, silky, and elegant,” and rates it 97. Wine Advocate notes that it is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and rates it 96–98.

  1. Eat, Drink and Be Merry with the Rogue Chefs!

Donated by Executive Chef/Owner Carl Kurokawa of Juliano’s Restaurant and Executive Chef David Maplethorpe of the Billings Petroleum Club

Be prepared to be wowed! Two of Billings’ most popular chefs will again delight eight lucky people with their creative culinary talents. Your evening will begin at Juliano’s Restaurant with appetizers. Chef David and Chef Carl will collaborate on a magnificent multi-course dinner including superb wine pairings. This is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy a masterfully executed experience that you will not soon forget! A fantastic evening of eating, drinking and merriment!

  1. Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque Luminous Brut, 2012, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

The Belle Epoque collection features Perrier Jouet’s finest vintage champagnes. The Luminous bottles are designed specifically for nightlife; the bottle will glow in the dark. The champagne is a blend of 50% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir, and 5% Pinot Meunier, and was rated 95 by Wine Enthusiast. Wine Spectator rated it 94.

  1. Purple and Gold Explosion – A Minnesota Vikings Football Adventure

Accommodations for two at the Radisson Blu Mall of America for two nights, tickets for two to a Minnesota Vikings home football game 

Dates: Due to the NFL schedule not yet being out at the time of printing, the date will be announced at the live auction

Transportation not included

Donated by Roger and Darla Huebner

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Cheer loudly as you and a friend take in a home football game at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. You will experience the excitement of a Minnesota Vikings home game, and you won’t be able to resist joining the purple and gold frenzy!

Enjoy two nights at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, an elegant hotel that gives you direct access to the Mall of America for the ultimate in style and convenience. You will also have easy access to the Metro Transit Light Rail to explore the area, and it can also easily transport you to the game. Have fun spending down time at the mall, dine at great restaurants in the Twin Cities. An explosion of fun!

  1. Winemaster Lot

Rodney Strong Symmetry Red Meritage, 2010, 1 x 6.0 liter

The 2010 Proprietary Red Symmetry is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot. Wine Spectator rates it 91 and calls it, “voluptuously textured, rich, full-bodied… with outstanding concentration and a long, heady finish. Enjoy this beauty over the next 10-15 years.” Ready to drink in an Imperial format.

  1. Neon West, by Chance Robinson

Donated by Chance Robinson

Original acrylic on canvas

Finished piece measures 36” x 36”

Billings artist Chance Robinson has created a piece that is truly a show-stopper! His bison skull demands attention and features new “Glitch” style. This style seeks to explore the juxtaposition of organic forms with digital and structural elements. Wouldn’t this piece look great in your home?

  1. Schrader Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, 6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

Dunnuck says “the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard RBS [is] full bodied, silky, and elegant,” and rates it 97. Wine Advocate notes that it is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and rates it 96–98.

  1. In the Passing Evening Light in Lamar Valley, by Ben Stringer

Original oil, gallery wrapped  

Finished piece measures 48” x 60”

Donated by Joy and James Mariska

Billings artist Ben Stringer casts a romantic spell in this original piece. Ben’s skill of taking you away to a place of beauty – with some mystery – is captured in this wonderful original painting.

  1. Winemaster Lot

Rowen Red Blend by Rodney Strong, 2017, 12 x 750 ml

Wine Enthusiast says, “This is a brawny, likable blend led by 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 22% Malbec, 15% Syrah and 3% Viognier” and rates it 90. The winemaker says, “The 2017 Rowen red blend is a lush and elegant wine.” Those who attended the Wine & Food Festival’s Buffalo Block wine dinner in March of 2020 would agree; the Rowen was the star of the evening.

  1. Casting a Spell on the Bighorn

Accommodations for two at the Bighorn River Lodge for three nights, guided fly fishing for two for two days, all meals

Transportation not included

Donated by Bighorn River Lodge

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation

The beauty of the Bighorn River, which many consider to be the best blue-ribbon trout fishery in the U.S., will cast its spell on two lucky fishing enthusiasts. Its clear, cool tail-water hosts 5,000 – 6,000 rainbow and brown trout per mile, with the average trout caught measuring between 14” and 20”!

You and your fishing partner will enjoy three nights at the Bighorn River Lodge, the only lodge situated directly on the bank of the upper Bighorn River. The Lodge offers an inviting atmosphere of a resort that reflects the rustic elegance and hospitality of Big Sky Country. You will take off each morning with one of the Lodge’s highly professional and seasoned guides to spend the day on the river. All meals are included.

An unparalleled fishing opportunity – a once in a lifetime fly-fishing vacation – awaits you. Let the Bighorn River cast its spell on you!  

  1. Lots for Scholarships

Donated by YOU!

Again this year, we are asking you to join in spirited, generous bidding to provide scholarships to MSU Billings students. The scholarships you fund will allow us to assist deserving students and reward those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and academic excellence. Scholarships also allow the University to attract and retain talented students.

  1. Aviary, by Rudy Autio

Framed print of an original lithograph, signed and numbered (27/70)

Finished piece measures 29” x 36”

Donated by Carol Hardy

Born in Butte, Autio lived in Montana for most of his career before passing in 2007. In 1981, Autio was the 1st recipient of the Montana Governor’s Arts Award and named Outstanding Visual Artist for the state. This interesting piece shows several figures in motion – two females, three birds and one horse. This is your opportunity to own a piece of Montana’s own Rudy Autio art. 

  1. Vincent Girardin Pommard Premier Cru, 2017, 12 x 750 ml

Sponsored by Benchmark Window & Door

Wine Advocate called the 2017 Pommard Les Cru “one of the high points on the red side of the ledger,” and said, “It has turned out very well,” then rated it 91. Wine Enthusiast said, “It has power and the structure you expect from this appellation” and rated it 93.

  1. Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016,
    6 x 1.5 L

Sponsored by Goodrich & Reely PLLC

Silver Oak is a timeless, perfect snapshot of Napa Valley. It’s a wine that has symbolized Napa Cabernet for five decades now because Silver Oak’s quality-obsessed approach delivers unimpeachable excellence in every vintage. The blend varies, but it is usually within a percentage point or two of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The 2016 was rated 94 by Wine.com. This lot comprises of six magnums, perfect for entertaining.

  1. Foundation’s Board of Trustees’ Lot, 13 x 750 ml

Sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation Board of Trustees members Kay Berry, Stefani Hicswa, Jodi Delahunt Hubbell, Donna Fredericks, Beverly Hall, Allyn Hulteng, Jani McCall, Krista Montague, Karen Moses, Merry Lee Olson, Tom Potter, Don Roberts, Rachel Schaffer

A mixed lot of thirteen bottles of wine, each selected on behalf of one of the Foundation’s Trustees. These are elegant premium wines from around the world which exemplify good taste and will be sure to complement your wine cellar. The wines are:

Two bottles each:

2016 Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon

2017 Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon

Three bottles each :

2017 Silver Oak Twomey Russian River Pinot Noir

2019 Silver Oak Twomey Russian River Pinot Noir

2019 Silver Oak Twomey Sauvignon Blanc

  1. Ovid Napa Valley Red Wine, 2017,
    6 x 750 ml

Sponsored by Holiday Station Stores

In 2017, the Proprietary Red Wine was 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot. Vinous rated it 96 while Dunnuck rated it 95 and said “it’s another elegant, seamless wine that’s going to benefit from short term cellaring and keep for 20-25 years or more.”

  1. Hawaiian Getaway – Napili Kai Beach Resort

Accommodations for two at the Napili Kai Beach Resort – Maui, one room studio with ocean view, for three nights and four days

Dates: November 13 – 16, 2022

Transportation not included

Donated by Travel Café

Napili Kai Beach Resort is situated on ten secluded tropical acres fronting one of the most beautiful snorkeling bays on Maui. Once you are there – the most difficult things you will have to do it leave. The Napili Kai staff will make you feel right at home with a traditional Aloha feeling in this quiet, uncomplicated setting. Imagine a tropical island paradise with all the comfort and spaciousness of a Maui condo and modern resort amenities. Guests can enjoy a gourmet meal and nightly Hawaiian entertainment at the beachfront Sea House restaurant or a cocktail at the bar or poolside snack at the Makai Hale snack bar. There are four pools, two large whirlpools; two professionally maintained 18-holes putting greens – putters provided – and shuffleboard court. Tennis is available across the street – along with two world-class golf courses located at Kapalua Resort adjacent to Napili Kai. Courtesy rates for golf at Kapalua Resort are available to guests.

This package includes round-trip transfers from Kahului Airport on Maui. Guest are responsible for their own air arrangements.

  1. The Evening Became Quiet as the Moon Rose Over Emigrant Peak, by Ben Stringer

Original oil, gallery wrapped  

Finished piece measures 36” x 48”

Donated by Ben Stringer

Billings artist Ben Stringer once again captures the beauty and mystery of Montana. Emigrant Peak casts a shadow over the mystical Paradise Valley and takes you away to a place of peace and grace. A perfect addition to your home or office.

  1. Brick House Pinot Noir, 6 bottles of Cuvee du Tonnelier, 2015, 6 bottles of Evelyn’s, 2016,
    12 x 750 ml

Donated by MSU Billings Foundation Board of Trustee Jodi Delahunt Hubbell and Todd Hubbell

Cuvée du Tonnelier translates as the barrel maker’s cuvée. This honors the ancestors of winemaker Doug Tunnel, whose forebears were coopers or “tonneliers” in 18th century France. Both cuvées are 100% Pinot Noir, a best-barrel selection of 50% Pommard and 50% Dijon clones. Wine Enthusiast rated the 2016 Evelyn’s at 95. They also rated the 2015 Cuvée du Tonnelier at 93 and made it an “editors choice”. The Wine Spectator rated it 93.

  1. Cancun Escape at Secrets The Vine

Accommodations for two adults at the Secrets The Vine All-Inclusive Resort, Cancun, Mexico for three nights, fourdays

Package is valid until May 31, 2023, based on availability; blackout days apply (major holiday period),  some restrictions apply

Transportation not included

Donated by Travel Café, AMR Collection

Escape to luxury™ at Secrets The Vine and indulge your passion for wine, being by the ocean, and a relaxing, romantic getaway in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Witness both sunrises and sunsets overlooking the iconic turquoise Caribbean Sea and Laguna Nichupte at this chic, contemporary and all-inclusive AAA Four Diamond resort. With private balconies, concierge services and an extensive wine collection, Secrets The Vine is designed with layers of sophisticated luxury and wine experiences for your romantic stay in the Yucatan Peninsula – and all complete with their signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience.

49.Take Home the Store!

Here is your opportunity to restock your cellar…start a cellar… or maybe you just love wine! This lot is for you! Tonight you can take home one bottle of each of the wines featured in our Wine Store – 60 fantastic bottles of wine to enjoy!

Lot includes two bottles each of our Winemasters’ wines.

Wines include:

2019 Rodney Strong California Chardonnay

2019 Rodney Strong Chalk Hill Chardonnay

2021 Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc Charlotte’s Home

2018 Rodney Strong Russian Pinot Noir

2018 Rodney Strong Sonoma Merlot

2019 Rodney Strong Sonoma Red Blend

2019 Rodney Strong Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon

2018 Rodney Strong Alexnder Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Rodney Strong Symmetry

2016 Rodney Strong Alexander Crown Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Rodney Strong Rockaway Cabernet Sauvignon

2017 Rodney Strong Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

2018 Rodney Strong Reserve Pinot Noir

2018 Domaine De Niza AOC Rouge

2016 St. Martin Cuvée Bronzinelles

2013 Château Vannieres Bandol Rouge

N/V Drappier Carte d’Or

N/V Champagne Collet Brut

2017 Penley Estate Atlas Shiraz

2020 John Duval Entity Shiraz

2017 John Duval Annexus Mataro

N/V Ty Ku Sake Platinum

2020 Oyster Bay Pinot Noir

2021 Crowded House Sauvignon Blanc

2017 Tolosa Syrah

2018 Tooth & Nail Paso Red Blend

2019 Tooth & Nail Paso Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Matchbook Petite Verdot

2018 Arsonist Red Blend

2013 Ruffino Modus

2013 Ruffino Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino

2019 Maison L’envoye Two Messengers Pinot Noir

2014 Roco Stalker Pinot Noir

2013 Roco Marsh Estate Pinot Noir

2018 Prisoner Wine Company Eternally Silenced Pinot Noir

2019 Prisoner Wine Company The Prisoner Red Blend

2015 Prisoner Wine Company The Prisoner Derange Red Blend

2015 Bouza A6 Tannat

2014 Garage Wine Co. Sauzal Carignan

2019 Bookwalter Readers Cabernet Sauvignon

2018 Bookwalter Conflict

2016 Bodegas Ego GO RU 18 M Monastrell-Cabernet

2017 Bodegas Ego GO RU Monastrell Red Blend

2020 Beringer Bros. Bourbon Cabernet Sauvignon

2020 Josh Cellars Reserve Bourbon Barrel Zinfandel

2022 Wine & Food