Forks & Corks Online Auction Open For “Bidness”

May 13, 2022 – Sarasota

Sarasota-Manatee Originals is auctioning off a menu of distinctive “lots” with a total value over $55K during their Forks & Corks Food and Wine Auction. The 2022 Food & Wine Online Auction promises a swank collection of lots featuring rare and exquisite wines, travel, and one-of-a-kind dining and party experiences made possible by generous donations from friends of Sarasota-Manatee Originals. The online auction items are already available for viewing and bidding. The auction will close this Sunday, May 15 at 7PM.  

For each of the last 14 years, the Sarasota-Manatee Originals have proudly presented the Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival in promotion and support of the Suncoast’s independent restaurant community. The multi-day Forks & Corks gourmand gathering is designed to showcase the palate-pleasing talents of the locally-owned eateries of Sarasota and Manatee Counties, highlighted by an esteemed international cast of visiting winery owners and winemakers. Over the years, the Festival has grown toencompass 24 events over five days, welcoming over 4,000 guests. With guidelines for safely gathering changing every day and COVID-19 vaccine administration underway, the decision was made to organize a different kind of Forks & Corks experience for 2022 and the 15th annual event offers guests a menu of specially-curated offerings, while celebrating the talents of the area’s brilliant and resilient food & beverage scene. 

Highlights of the 2022 Online Food and Wine Auction Include:

· Raffle for 2 sets of (2) VIP Forks & Corks 2022 Grand Tasting event tickets (Raffle starts at $25; $800 value for set of 2 tickets)

· Bottle of Dom Pérignon 2008 and 2 vintage etched crystal champagne glasses ($350 value)

· Private Mixology Class for Eight Guests at State Street Eat House + Cocktails ($800 value)

· Biondi-Santi RARE Magnum (1.5L) Brunello di Montalcino “Riserva” 2015 ($1800 value)

· Imperial (5.0L) bottle Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 2010 signed by winery owner Cristina Mariani May ($750 value)

· Magnum (1.5L) of Duckhorn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, 2017 ($150 value)

·  Private Five-Course Sake Pairing Dinner for Eight Guests at Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill! ($900 value)

·  3-Hour Cruise for 18 People on the Golden Eagle III Yacht ($5,000 value)

·  Napa Valley Wine Experience for 4 including 2-night stay at the Archer Hotel in downtown Napa, dinner at Trinchero Napa Valley hosted by Carlos Trinchero, a VIP tour and several tastings including  a special selection out of the Trinchero Family Private Cellar.  ($5000 value)

·  And more!

Forks & Corks is the primary fundraiser of the year for The Originals, bringing critical marketing dollars to the organization to promote dining in local, independently-owned restaurants. The virtual “paddle raise” will help the organization make their projected fundraising goals. 

The Online Auction website can be reached through www.eatlikealocal.com