In an evening of friendship, fine dining and award-winning beverages, Yavapai College Foundation donors hoisted a glass with local wine enthusiasts to honor the Verde Valley and YC’s Viticulture and Enology Program.
The October event raised approximately $50,000 to support student scholarships
Wine & Dine in the Vines, the foundation’s signature fundraising event, lit up the fields and the foothills around the Southwest Wine Center. The event invites friends new and old to appreciate the artistry of winemaking and the beauty of an autumn night in Northern Arizona.
This year’s event sold out early, with a capacity crowd of 250 donors enjoying culinary creations from more than 25 local restaurants and wineries, participating in a silent auction and swapping for the best vintage in the annual Wine Pool.
Julia Dixon, the award-winning Owner and Manager of 1764 Vineyards and Four Tails vineyards, proved a highlight of the evening. The 2016 Yavapai College Viticulture & Enology graduate spoke about the value of her education and the Southwest Wine Center’s profound influence on the Verde Valley community.
Since 2009, the program has taught winery on the 13-acre fields of the Southwest Wine Center in Clarkdale, provided qualified wine makers, fueled startup wineries and offered the logistical expertise that helped the community earn the American Viticulture Area designation in 2021.
