Music Industry Leaders and Napa Valley’s Finest Unite to Support Innovative Cancer Treatments and Transform Lives
The T.J. Martell Foundation Marks 50 Years of Music Industry Funding Breakthroughs in Cancer Treatment and Care
April 7, 2025 – Napa, CA – The T.J. Martell Foundation Napa’s Best Cellars Wine Dinner returns on Thursday, May 22, at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, bringing together influential leaders from the wine and music industries for a spectacular charity auction and culinary event dedicated to the fight against cancer. This year also marks the Foundation’s 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of championing bold, high-risk, high-reward cancer research that has driven lifesaving advancements.
What sets the Napa’s Best Cellars Wine Dinner apart from all other Napa Valley events is its deep connection to the music industry—a force that drives creativity and passion throughout the evening. Supported by the T.J. Martell Foundation’s trustees—leaders shaping the future of music—the event demonstrates how their influence and dedication fuel lasting progress.
The evening will honor Cristina and Lee Hudson of Hudson Vineyards for their leadership in the wine industry and legendary music industry manager Shep Gordon for his influence and philanthropy. Renowned celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez, one of the world’s most prominent Latin chefs will curate a three-course gourmet dinner alongside the culinary team at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. The evening’s entertainment will feature intimate acoustic performances by G. Love and Donavon Frankenreiter, known for their soulful acoustic performances.
The event’s celebrated “La Paulée” style dinner invites guests to share selections from their private wine collections, poured by Napa’s Valley’s finest sommeliers. Table-hopping is encouraged, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and generosity. A luxury auction will showcase rare wines, deluxe travel experiences, and exclusive collectibles from the worlds of music and wine.
“We are thrilled to bring together such a passionate group of leaders from the wine and music industries to support the T.J. Martell Foundation’s mission,” said Marc Reiter, T.J. Martell Foundation Trustee and Co-Chair of the event. “The Napa Best Cellars Dinner represents the spirit of community and generosity that drives innovation in cancer research.”
“This event is a celebration of what makes Napa Valley so special—great wine, exceptional cuisine, and a community committed to making a difference,” said Remi Cohen, CEO of Domaine Carneros and Co- Chair of the event. “It’s an honor to collaborate with the T.J. Martell Foundation to advance their groundbreaking work in cancer research.”
The Napa’s Best Cellars Wine Dinner is unlike any other event in Napa Valley. Its connection to the music industry’s most influential leaders brings unprecedented influence, passion, and dedication to the cause. Music has the power to inspire, unite, and heal—qualities that align perfectly with the T.J. Martell Foundation’s mission to drive bold, innovative cancer research.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the T.J. Martell Foundation’s innovative research initiatives, funding early-stage projects that hold the potential to transform cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes.
Tickets are available at https://25TJMFNapaWine.givesmart.com.
About The T.J. Martell Foundation
For 50 years, the T.J. Martell Foundation has united the music industry in the fight against cancer, funding groundbreaking research that brings hope to patients and families. Founded by music executive Tony Martell in memory of his son T.J., the Foundation has helped propel some of the most significant advancements in cancer research through philanthropy-driven innovation. For more information on the T.J. Martell Foundation, visit www.tjmartell.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
