FAQ
The Vintner Ball is one of the best charity values that your dollar can buy. Here are answers to some common questions.
Q: What do you get for $150?
Even as a non-charity entertainment proposition, the Vintner Ball provides real value. Many commercial and charity wine dinners and tastings offer tiny pours of $8-$15 bottles of wine. At the Vintner Ball, the least refined wine served is superior to the finest available at many of these events. Our guests have access to 70+ truly high-end wines and a Riedel stem to use and keep. Many of these wines sell for over $100 per bottle, and are served by experts that are excited to help you understand what you are tasting.
Q: Is it all about wine?
It is certainly about wine, but not all about wine. Lunds/Byerly's will also be serving some of their finest cheeses and chocolates, and experts will be on hand to answer your questions.
Q: Should we have dinner beforehand?
Some people choose to eat before the Vintner Ball, but we would certainly not recommend it. We will also be serving hearty hors d'oeuvres, as well as coffee, desserts and a selection of special dessert wines.
Q: Is it okay to attend even though I'm not a wine expert?
Most people are not wine and cheese connoisseurs—plus, the whole point of the event is to make wine drinking fun and approachable. Your palate is likely far more discerning than you imagine, and this event is a great way to learn more!
Q: Is it a formal ball?
No, the Vintner Ball is not formal. Dress like you were going out for a Saturday night dinner with friends.
Q: How does the charity make money after the cost of the event?
The entire cost of the event is underwritten by Lunds/Byerly's and their vendors, as well as MoCo advertising, Dolan Printing and your hosts. All auction items have been donated. 100% of money spent and donated by our guests, individual donors and corporate donors will go directly to the charity.
Q: I have read about how inefficient some charities are. How does Second Harvest Heartland compare?
Second Harvest Heartland is a careful steward of your generosity. More than 95% of donations are applied to programs and less than 5% to administration. But the most amazing thing about Second Harvest Heartland is their ability to leverage your charity dollar. Our state has a proud tradition as the country's breadbasket. Some of the largest and most generous food producers in the world call Minnesota home. Second Harvest Heartland gets over-stocks, misprints and cosmetically compromised inventory for pennies on the dollar. So your $150 ticket provides 555 meals to those most in need right here in our community.
Q: Sometimes charities use high-pressure tactics to raise donations. Will I be expected to donate above and beyond the price of my ticket?
The Vintner Ball was Second Harvest Heartland's largest third-party charity in 2012. We are successful by making our event more like a wine and food party and less like a fundraiser. You will not be put in the spotlight and hassled to write a check. You may bid on a silent auction item or decide to make a separate donation, but these are presented discreetly and subtly. Your $150 admission is really all you need to spend.
Q: What if I am interested in making a separate donation?
You can send it in with your RSVP, donate directly at VintnerBall.com, or you can donate at the event itself.
