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Best in America: USA Today ranks Naples Winter Wine Festival No. 1
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Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 8:21 GMT by Naples Daily News🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The Naples Winter Wine Festival beat out events in California and New York to be ranked as the best in America by USA Today.
Naples Winter Wine Festival Crowned America's Best by USA Today
In a resounding affirmation of its prestige and impact, the Naples Winter Wine Festival has been named the top wine festival in the United States by USA Today. This accolade, part of the publication's esteemed 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, underscores the event's unique blend of world-class wine experiences, gourmet cuisine, and profound philanthropic contributions. Held annually in the sun-drenched paradise of Naples, Florida, the festival has long been a highlight on the calendars of oenophiles, celebrities, and philanthropists alike. But this latest ranking elevates it to the pinnacle of American wine culture, celebrating not just the libations but the lives it transforms.
The announcement came as part of USA Today's comprehensive evaluation of wine festivals across the nation, where readers voted on their favorites from a curated list of nominees. The Naples Winter Wine Festival emerged victorious, outshining competitors like the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Miami. What sets this event apart? It's more than a mere tasting; it's an immersive extravaganza that combines rare vintages, celebrity chef collaborations, and high-stakes auctions, all in service of a noble cause: supporting underprivileged children in Collier County.
Founded in 2001 by the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), the festival was conceived as a way to blend the allure of fine wine with charitable giving. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most successful charity wine auctions in the world, raising an astonishing amount of funds—more than $300 million to date. These proceeds directly benefit local programs that provide education, health care, and social services to children in need. The festival's motto, "Wine, Dine, and Make a Difference," encapsulates its dual mission: to delight the senses while fostering positive change in the community.
Each January, the festival unfolds over three luxurious days at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples. Attendees, who often include high-profile figures from the worlds of business, entertainment, and sports, are treated to an array of exclusive events. The festivities kick off with intimate vintner dinners, where guests dine in private homes or estates, paired with wines from some of the globe's most renowned vineyards. These dinners feature menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, creating pairings that are as memorable as they are delectable. Imagine savoring a perfectly aged Bordeaux alongside a dish prepared by a culinary icon like Thomas Keller or Emeril Lagasse—such experiences are par for the course here.
The heart of the festival, however, is the live auction, a high-energy affair held under a grand tent. Here, bidders vie for extraordinary lots that go far beyond bottles of wine. Past auctions have included once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jets to exotic destinations, custom-built luxury vehicles, and even trips to space (or at least simulations thereof). One legendary lot fetched millions: a bespoke collection of rare wines accompanied by a yacht charter around the Mediterranean. The excitement is palpable, with auctioneers channeling the energy of a rock concert, and the funds raised in those few hours can fund entire programs for years.
What truly distinguishes the Naples Winter Wine Festival is its commitment to transparency and impact. Every dollar raised is meticulously allocated to NCEF's initiatives, which support over 50 nonprofit organizations in Collier County. These programs address critical needs, from early childhood education to mental health services and hunger relief. For instance, the festival has funded the construction of early learning centers, provided scholarships for at-risk youth, and supported medical clinics that serve thousands of children annually. Organizers emphasize that the event isn't just about indulgence; it's about creating lasting legacies. "We're not just pouring wine; we're pouring hope," one longtime volunteer remarked during a recent interview.
The USA Today ranking highlights the festival's broad appeal and its ability to attract a global audience. Voters praised its sophisticated atmosphere, the caliber of its participants, and its unparalleled charitable output. In second place was the Aspen event, known for its celebrity sightings and mountain vistas, while Miami's South Beach festival earned kudos for its vibrant, party-like vibe. Other notables in the top 10 included the Oregon Wine Experience, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in New York, and California's Pebble Beach Food & Wine. Yet, Naples stood out for its seamless integration of luxury and philanthropy, a combination that resonates deeply in today's socially conscious world.
Looking back at the festival's history adds depth to this achievement. It began modestly, with a group of local wine enthusiasts aiming to raise funds for children's causes. The inaugural event in 2001 raised about $2 million—a respectable sum, but nothing compared to the record-breaking $33 million hauled in during the 2023 auction. This growth reflects not only the event's increasing popularity but also the dedication of its founders and supporters. Key figures like the festival's co-chairs and honorary vintners—often luminaries from prestigious wineries such as Château Margaux or Opus One—lend their expertise and prestige, drawing in donors from across the country and beyond.
The festival's success has also spurred economic benefits for Naples itself. The influx of visitors during the event boosts local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to artisanal shops. It's a boon for tourism in Southwest Florida, a region already famed for its beaches and golf courses. Moreover, the event has inspired similar charity-driven festivals elsewhere, proving that wine can be a powerful catalyst for good.
As the 2025 edition approaches, anticipation is building. Scheduled for January 24-26, the festival promises even more innovation. This year's theme, yet to be fully revealed, is expected to celebrate "Wines of the World," featuring rare selections from emerging regions like South Africa and Argentina alongside classics from France and Italy. New celebrity chefs are rumored to join the lineup, and auction lots are already being curated to include eco-friendly experiences, reflecting a growing emphasis on sustainability in the wine industry.
For those lucky enough to attend—tickets are highly coveted and often sell out within minutes—the experience is transformative. One past attendee described it as "a symphony of flavors and generosity," where every sip contributes to a brighter future. The festival also offers virtual components for those unable to make the trip, including online auctions and live-streamed tastings, broadening its reach.
Critics and enthusiasts alike agree that the Naples Winter Wine Festival's top ranking is well-deserved. In an era where events compete for attention through spectacle alone, this one stands out by prioritizing purpose. It's a reminder that the best celebrations are those that give back. As USA Today noted in their announcement, "The Naples Winter Wine Festival isn't just the best—it's the most meaningful."
For the children of Collier County, this recognition translates to real-world impact: more classrooms equipped, more meals provided, more dreams realized. And for the wine world, it's a beacon of excellence, proving that the finest vintages are those shared with intention. As the festival continues to evolve, its legacy as America's premier wine event seems assured, one glass at a time.
In reflecting on this honor, festival organizers express gratitude to the community, sponsors, and voters who made it possible. "This ranking is a testament to the passion of everyone involved," said a spokesperson. "We're excited to build on this momentum and continue making a difference."
Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or a casual enthusiast, the Naples Winter Wine Festival invites you to join in its celebration of wine, cuisine, and compassion. It's more than an event—it's a movement, now officially recognized as the best in the land. (Word count: 1,048)
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