Arno Schmidt, a CIA trustee emeritus, is a wine lover and collector of fine vintages. From his personal collection comes four special bottles of wine:

• Château Margaux 1983
• Pétrus 1976
• Two bottles of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild 1970

Château Margaux was bought by entrepreneur André Mentzelopoulos in 1977. He invested substantially, restored the handsome château, and took on Professor Emile Peynaud as a consultant, leading to swift and lasting improvement in quality. By 1983, his daughter Corinne Mentzelopoulos was essentially in charge, and her appointment of the young Dr. Paul Pontallier as general manager and chief winemaker proved an inspired decision, lending to the first growth an instinctive winemaking flair combined with scientific rigor. Pontallier's first vintage at Margaux was 1983 and this wine's exceptional quality was no coincidence. It is widely accepted that Margaux was the most successful Left Bank Bordeaux commune in 1983.

Although the wines of Pomerol have never been classified, Pétrus is widely regarded as the outstanding wine of the appellation. Pétrus leads a duo of Pomerol estates in extreme prices, along with Le Pin, that rank consistently among the world's most expensive wines. A 750ml bottle of Pétrus wine is priced at an average of $2,630.

Château Lafite-Rothschild is seen as the most aristocratic of the first growths. Purchased by Baron James de Rothschild in 1868, the land's wine history goes back to Roman times, with stops on the best tables of judges of the Middle Ages, King Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour, and the president of the local parliament until he was guillotined during the French Revolution. The property passed from the state to Dutch and British owners before settling with the Rothschilds. The wine is complex and refined. In great vintages, it is also one of the most long-lived wines in the world.

Restrictions: Must be at least 21 years of age. Donation is final and sold "as is" in current condition. Shipping will be arranged directly with Mr. Schmidt.