Harvest, Harmony & Heritage.
As September’s golden light settled over the vineyards of Sonoma County, members of The Group gathered once again for one of the year’s most anticipated events: Weekend in Wine Country VI, a curated, late-harvest escape into the heart of California’s most cherished wine region.
From September 25–29, 2024, this immersive experience unfolded across five spectacular days—beginning in San Francisco and culminating in a private concert among the vines. As always, the weekend was about more than food and wine. It was about connection, elegance, and creating memories that linger long after the last glass was poured.
Luxury in Bloom
This year’s guests enjoyed accommodations at the renowned Montage Healdsburg, an exceptional 5-star property tucked between 250 acres of rolling vineyards and oak groves in Sonoma County. With panoramic views, elevated design, and discreet service, the Montage served as the perfect base of operations for a weekend that blended intimacy with indulgence.
Upon arrival in San Francisco, guests checked in at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton San Francisco, where they unwound before the evening’s elegant festivities. The night began with a celebratory toast in our private hospitality suite at the Ritz, setting the tone for an extraordinary weekend. Dinner that evening featured a complete buy-out of Eight Tables, one of the most exclusive dining experiences in the city. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed into the kitchen by the chef and owner for a personal greeting, an amuse-bouche, and a glass of fine French champagne, before being escorted to their tables for an unforgettable 11-course culinary journey. The following day, private transportation delivered guests to Healdsburg, where the rhythm of wine country life awaited.
Curated Indulgence, from Dawn to Dusk
The weekend’s itinerary included an early morning hot air balloon ride over the misty hills of wine country, complimentary afternoon spa treatments for the ladies, curated tastings, and nightly receptions. Each detail, from the wine pairings to the lighting of the fire pits, was planned to encourage conversation, relaxation, and reconnection.
A Concert to Remember
On Friday evening, guests were transported to the historic Robert Young Winery for a sunset concert under the stars, featuring Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Paula Cole. Set against the backdrop of Alexander Valley, this intimate performance was paired with a tasting of the vineyard’s most coveted chardonnays—an elegant tribute to the spirit of the season.
It was a moment designed not just to impress, but to transport. The grape vines, music, and wine all mingled as the sun slipped behind the vines.
Saturday’s Wine Bazaar at the Montage
On Saturday afternoon, guests were invited to an exclusive Wine Bazaar, held onsite at the Montage. This signature event featured pours from a dozen boutique wineries, each carefully selected for their limited production and uncompromising quality. None of these wines were available in retail outlets, only by allotment or subscription, and the winemakers or owners themselves presented them.
Set in a relaxed, open-air setting with sweeping vineyard views, the Wine Bazaar also featured live acoustic music, creating the perfect backdrop for lingering conversations, spontaneous connections, and easy laughter. It was a rare opportunity to sip, discover, and collect exceptional bottles that reflected the soul of Sonoma—directly from the people who crafted them, all while enjoying the ambiance of Wine Country at its best.
On Saturday evening, dinner plans were left intentionally open, allowing couples to dine al fresco with new friends or escape for a quiet moment together. The night concluded with a signature party in an undisclosed location, a sexy Las Vegas club DJ setting the perfect mood—an elegant send-off cloaked in just enough mystery to be unforgettable.
Elegance Without Expectation
Weekend in Wine Country VI was not about excess—it was about refinement. It was about gathering with others who value discretion, fashion, and the art of experience. It was a return to simplicity, in a setting defined by its natural beauty and cultural richness.
If this sounds like the kind of experience you wish you had been part of, we encourage you to explore more about what it means to be a member of The Group. Your seat at the table may still be waiting.
