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{ SOMMjournal.com } 51 without tasting it first, which is why it's so important to attend the preview events. Sure, there's no way I can afford one of the lots from Scarecrow, but do I want to taste the wines? You bet!" Jenkins does his research ahead of time and carefully plans out a spread sheet. "I know exactly what I'll be aiming to buy," he insists. "The bidding is the most exciting part; my adrenaline flows as soon as I lift my paddle. And to win the lot is one of the most exhilarating sensations of all." In the mountains of Colorado, an hour and a half west of Denver, is the 8400-acre C Lazy U Guest Ranch. The property—home to where "the deer and antelope play"—is known for its gourmet dining, professional horse - manship services, first class amenities. The historic 95-year-old resort been honored with a wards as being one of the best in the U.S. Food & Beverage Director Shelby Peterson explains that guests come during the summer and stay for a minimum of a week for an all-inclusive outdoor adventure. The indoor adventure includes her noteworthy luxury wine list, where she specializes in California selections. "This is why it's so important that I attend Premiere Napa Valley. This year will be my third visit. Living in Granby, I don't have the opportunity to network with many people in the industry," she points out. "This in an intense week where I can get so much done in one place." Dealing with an upscale clientele is the motivation Peterson needs to buy exclusive lots that she easily sells to customers in the know. "I actually bought my first two lots online—both Pinot Noirs, one from Acacia and the other a lesser-known producer, Schermeister Cellars. I hope to land a Cabernet Sauvignon this year." Peterson hand-sells these wines by telling her clients the story behind the label. "I hope to touch (and taste) as many wines as possible this year," she adds. "I'll fly in Tuesday and stay through the auction. It's a party, an educa - tion—and, oh yes, a luxury vacation!" Chairing the 2017 Premiere Napa Valley Auction is Andy Erickson, along with his wife, Annie Favia. The annual barrel tasting and auction takes place on February 25, 2017, and always sells out, but this year's Premiere Napa Valley Online Auction means licensed members of the trade from anywhere in the world can get in on the bidding action without having to travel to Napa Valley. More than 40 of the lots will be offered exclusively online. Electronic bidding opens Friday, February 24 at 9 a.m. PST and closes on Saturday, February 25 at 1 p.m. PST. The 2017 wine catalog is available for preview at www.pre - mierenapavalley.com. Lots from prior years can also be viewed at this web address. For more information and to register for the online auction, call Napa Valley Vintners at 707-963-3388 or go to www.premie- renapavalley.com. BOB MCCLENAHAN FOR NAPA VALLEY VINTNERS PHOTO COURTESY OF CHUCK JENKINS Premiere Napa Valley Auction: Take a Sip and Buy Online Chuck Jenkins, CSW, Wine Services Manager for Nos Caves Vin in Houston, Texas, stands next to his recent shipment of wines from Premiere Napa Valley auction.