Sotheby’s and Institute of Masters of Wine debut fundraising auction
Auction house Sotheby’s has partnered with the Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) on an online fundraising auction raising money to “support the IMW and its community”.
Titled Explore the World of Fine Wine, the auction lots include experiences with leading winemakers, insider access to legendary estates and rare wines not available on the open market. All the lots on offer have been curated by Masters of Wine.
Bidding for the lots, of which there are 70 on offer, will take place online on Sothebys.com between 17 November and 1 December.
All proceeds will support the IMW. Sarah Harrison, the institute’s interim executive director, said of the sale: “Our membership and student body are among the world’s most passionate, active and influential communities preserving and enriching this shared global legacy. The proceeds from this auction will provide invaluable financial resources to support the IMW and its community. We are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity shown by everyone who has donated lots and given their time, and to Sotheby’s for helping to make this auction happen.”
Partner Content
Nick Pegna, global head of wine and spirits at Sotheby’s, said: “Our collaboration with the Institute of Masters of Wine represents a shared commitment to excellence, education and the future of fine wine. The auction promises an extraordinary range of wines and experiences – each lot personalised, truly singular, and deeply connected to the people and places that define the wine world. It’s an impactful way for us to support the global MW community and help shape the next generation of Masters of Wine.”
Details of the available lots will be announced in the coming weeks.
The IMW is a membership organisation which has run for more than 70 years. Today, there are 418 Masters of Wine based in 29 countries. The membership encompasses winemakers, sommeliers, buyers, journalists, shippers, consultants, academics and educators. The 2024-25 MW study programme accepted 346 students from 43 countries.
Related news
Wines of Hungary makes central Europe the centre of attention
Trinity Hill taps into rising demand for white wines in Asia
