A History of Winesong
Over the past four decades, Winesong has grown from its modest beginnings into a beloved tradition. This cherished event brings friends together to celebrate the beauty of the Botanical Gardens and support the Mendocino Coast Healthcare Foundation.
Winesong Posters (1985-2020, 2024)
History of Winesong
Shortly after the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation (MCHF) was established on September 1, 1984, Barbara Bessler, chair of the Development Committee, proposed hosting a wine tasting and auction at the Botanical Gardens. The concept was named “Winesong”, and planning began.
The inaugural event took place in September 1985. Despite a whirlwind effort to organize it, Winesong generated $18,692—though the production cost has been lost to history.
Winesong faced challenges in its second year, losing over $60,000. Despite setbacks, the board persisted and began making improvements to the event.
Changes such as expanding the event from the Dahlia Gardens to include the event lawn—with a tent for bidders—paid off. By 1989, Winesong had surpassed $100,000 in total bidding and gained a reputation as a destination for great wine deals.
With a growing base of dedicated attendees, Winesong surpassed the $200,000 gross income barrier. It had firmly established itself as a premier wine auction event.
Initially staffed entirely by volunteers, Winesong gradually expanded in the 2000s to include part-time and later full-time coordinators, enhancing the event’s professionalism and efficiency.
The pandemic brought new challenges, forcing Winesong to pivot to virtual auctions for two years. Despite the shift, the event continued to connect its community and support healthcare initiatives.
Winesong returned to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens for an in-person gathering, rekindling the event’s charm and traditions
Winesong will return to the Botanical Gardens to commemorate its 40th anniversary, honoring decades of community support and healthcare partnerships.
