Napa in Newport: An Evening of Fine Wine, Dining, and Giving
Renowned for its exceptional showcase of Napa Valley’s finest wines, Napa in Newport returns for its 11th annual gala on March 1, 2025, at the luxurious Pendry Newport Beach. This highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable evening, seamlessly blending world-class wine, gourmet cuisine, and a steadfast commitment to philanthropy.
Guests will experience an exclusive Grand Tasting featuring limited-production wines from Napa’s most sought-after vintners, with Morlet Family Vineyards serving as the Honorary Vintner Chair. The evening will include a meticulously curated dinner by Chef Philip Tessier of PRESS restaurant in St. Helena, followed by an exhilarating live auction featuring rare wines, luxury getaways, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
The celebration continues with an exclusive afterparty at the members-only Elwood Club, where elevated cocktails, soulful performances by The Dave Stephens Band, and a sophisticated ambiance will provide the perfect finale to an extraordinary night. With limited attendance and exclusive weekend packages that include premium accommodations, this gala is set to redefine luxury and intimacy.
This year’s event shines a spotlight on Morlet Family Vineyards, led by Luc and Jodie Morlet, who craft vins de terroir and unique cuvées that marry classic French winemaking traditions with California’s distinct terroirs. Known for their intensity, richness, and refinement, each small-production wine is designed to showcase complexity and aging potential.
Adding to the evening’s prestige, Chef Philip Tessier, a Michelin-starred chef, author, and mentor, will present a gourmet dining experience. As Chef/Partner at PRESS, a World’s 50 Best Discovery restaurant, he is celebrated for his modern, refined approach to American cuisine. His expertise will bring an unparalleled culinary dimension to the gala, perfectly complementing Napa Valley’s finest wines.
"Napa in Newport has become more than just a gala—it’s a symbol of hope, progress, and community,” shared Debra Miller, Founder and CEO of CureDuchenne. “For over a decade, this extraordinary event has united wine enthusiasts and philanthropists in our shared mission to transform the future for those living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Each glass raised and every dollar donated brings us closer to life-changing treatments and, ultimately, a cure. This year’s gala promises to be our most inspiring yet, and I am deeply grateful to our vintners, sponsors, and supporters for their unwavering dedication to our cause."
Benefiting CureDuchenne, a global leader in research, patient care, and innovation, the event supports efforts to improve and extend the lives of individuals affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy—a devastating disease impacting approximately 1 in 5,000 male births. To date, Napa in Newport has raised over $11 million to advance critical research and treatment.
Event sponsors include South Coast Plaza and The Caviar Company.
Sponsorships, tables and tickets are available. For more information on tickets, sponsorships, participating vintners, and silent auction, please visit napainnewport.org.
