SoDel Concepts’ Oct. 27 fundraiser to benefit California wildfire relief efforts

happier times in northern California, Chef Doug Ruley of SoDel Concepts participated in the Chef Series at Bouchaine Winery. Now SoDel Concepts wants to give back by donating $1 for each bottle or glass of wine sold on Friday, Oct. 27, to wildfire relief efforts. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

he deadly wildfires that consumed communities and property in northern California have left many wineries - and the resort areas that depend on them - in limbo. The devastating fires have affected homeowners, jobs and tourism. On Friday, Oct. 27, SoDel Concepts will donate a dollar for every glass or bottle of wine ordered that day to relief efforts.

"The California wine country is near and dear to our hearts," said Mike Zygmonski, wine director for SoDel Concepts. "Last summer, I attended Cabernet Academy in Alexander Valley, and our corporate chef, Doug Ruley, and I just came back from participating in Bouchaine Winery's Chef Series. We want to help in any way possible."

At the urging of Denise Trione, owner of Trione Vineyards, which sponsored Zygmonski's attendance at the Cabernet Academy, SoDel Concepts came up with the idea for the fundraiser, which will be held in all 10 of SoDel Concepts' coastal restaurants, as well as The Clubhouse at Baywood, located in Long Neck.

Those interested in helping the area can also visit the Wine Institute's web page for a list of relief funds at wineinstitute.org or the American Red Cross at redcross.org.

"You can also do your part by simply ordering and buying California wines," Zygmonski said. "Every dollar in the wineries' pockets will help them rebuild and sustain an industry that's so important to the state."

For information about SoDel Concepts and a listing of restaurants, visit sodelconcepts.com.