Now in its 28th year, the High Museum Atlanta Wine Auction is the largest charity wine auction in the United States benefiting the arts. From decadent in-home Winemaker Dinners to the sell-out Ladies Luncheon and the grand finale Live Auction, many consider this the best party in Atlanta to support our beloved High Museum of Art. In addition, the Paddle Raise contributes to Art Access programs at the High which provides for students from local schools: free admission to the High Museum, free transportation, free teacher resources and materials for the classroom, welcome back coupon for each student, inviting them to bring their parents to the High.
Jill Campbell and George Bullock are hosting one of the Winemakers Dinners in their Historic Brookhaven home. We sat down with them to find out why they are partnering with the High for this annual fundraiser.
Sue G. Collins: Your daughter (who also lives in historic Brookhaven) recently threw you a surprise birthday party for 100 of your closest friends. Tell us about your family and why you choose this beautiful community.
Jill Campbell: I have loved Brookhaven since I moved here 19 years ago. It’s a peaceful neighborhood where people walk and bike - just gorgeous. Together we have five children and two granddaughters. It’s so fun when we all get together.
SC: You and George are hosting a Winemakers Dinner this month, celebrating four days of wine tasting events raising money for The High Museum. Elizabeth Chambers Cellars, Andrew Stiltner and Julia Chambers Stiltner, William Cole Vineyards and Jane and Bill Ballentine will be the winemakers pairing and pouring for 20 around your dining room table(s). Chefs, Ronald Hsu of Lazy Bettyand Jason Huang, Proskauer & Rose in New York will be cooking. Where will you put everyone for this special night and why did you volunteer your home for this unique dinner?
JC: Our home has a great flow to it so we will utilize many rooms. I jumped at the chance to host a Winemakers Dinner. We love wine, great food, and meeting new people. Plus, it benefits the High Museum. We can’t think of a better combo!
SC: Proceeds from the Auction are a vital part of the Museum’s exhibition and education plan, helping to make possible special exhibitions such as the 2019 hit exhibition Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors and the upcoming Vigil Abloh: Figures of Speech. What draws you and George to the museum and its fundraising needs?
JC: We love the exhibits the museum brings to Atlanta. Access to art is so important in a city, to attract new residents and companies as well as educate people who live here.
SC: I know you're a dedicated benefactor and active bidder at the auction. When did you first attend and, for people who haven't been, just how wild does it get?
JC: It is the best event of the year by far! From tasting delicious food from local restaurants to sipping wines from across the country to bidding on spectacular trips and dinners - it is a really fun afternoon!
Presenting Sponsor: Delta Air Lines. Grand Cru Sponsor: Merrill Lynch Westmoreland Group Private Wealth Management. Friday Uncorked! Sponsor: JLL
