Enjoy this selection of single malt scotches from some of Scotland's finest regions. From floral to peaty, you'll live a trip through Scotland vicariously thru this fabulous tasting experience. Eight bottles.

Longrow Campbeltown Single Malt (Springbank): The nose is a fruity peaty wonderland, the palate mimics the nose with a touch of spice, and it finishes out in long slow drawl of peat with sweet and rustic flavors poking through. I really enjoy everything about it and Springbank, for me, is one of those distilleries that I have enjoyed everything I've had from them.
Tobermory 12-Year-Old (Isle of Mull): Matured exclusively in ex-bourbon casks, Tobermory 12-Year-Old has a vibrant, fruity and spicy character with a subtle, salty edge. This Hebridean single malt has sweet, honeyed aromas of vanilla, ripe oranges, and delicate flowers. The palate offers notes of fresh citrus, apples and tropical fruits, followed by creamy toffee, floral honey and a subtly, salty undercurrent.
Deanston 18-Year-Old Bourbon Cask Finish (Highland): Floral, tropical fruits, mirabelle plums. As it opens it becomes more intense. Gorse flowers, honey, some spiciness- vanilla sponge soaked with peach/apricot syrup- knitted together by hints of sherry, light oils (linseed, flax) icing sugar - but big on fruit esters - ripe banana, pineapple cubes and a lick of polish. Dry, but well balanced sweet/ bitter combo, touch of heat, touch of saline - and a lingering finish with the whole panoply of fruits and sherry playing out.
Craigellachie 13-Year-Old (Speyside): Craigellachie is often described as having a meaty quality to it and after trying the Craigellachie 13 I agree. The thick tarry nose is a deep well of aromas that perfectly compliment the charred, woody and earthy fruit on the palate till it's completely faded away on the finish. The Craigellachie 13 is my first encounter with a Craigellachie OB and I have to say I'm impressed. There's just nothing not to like about this whisky. Definitely recommended.
Jura 10-Year-Old (Jura): This Jura 10-year-old is a notch up from its predecessors. It's softer, less funky and a lot more flavorful. The flavor and aroma of smoked apricots is pleasant even if it's not very deep or complex. I don't know if it's the addition of the sherry casks to the mix, longer aging in the sherry casks or what exactly is different but it's a nice change - extremely drinkable.
Ardbeg An Oa (Islay): Rounded and subtly smoky (applewood), with creamy toffee, aniseed, treacle and dates. A curious suggestion of juicy fruits, such as peach and banana. With a drop of water, reminders of Ardbeg's classic. A smooth, creamy texture leads into a huge syrupy sweetness, flavors of milk chocolate, treacle toffee, aniseed, orange and smoky tea leaves. Gentle, sweet spices, some cigar smoke, and a very unusual flavor of grilled artichokes. Long and sweet, with floral overtones, mint toffee and some gentle malt. The finish is lingering, seductive, gentle yet intense, with flavors of aniseed, hickory and distant smoke.
Highland Park 12-Year-Old (Orkney Isle): Highland Park 12-Year-Old boasts individuality and complexity, thanks in part to the use of Orcadian peat in the distillery floor maltings and the employment of ex-sherry casks for maturation. The nose is fragrant and floral, with hints of heather and some spice. Smooth and honeyed on the palate.
Auchentoshan 12-Year-Old (Lowland): Auchentoshan 12 Years is a single malt with a pleasant amount of character. It's a whisky that I wouldn't say I've been avoiding reviewing, but I haven't exactly gone out of my way to secure a bottle. As a general rule I like the darker side of whisk(e)y. In single malts I like first fill sherry cask whiskey that has those dark wine, cocoa and ashy notes or Islay whiskeys with their inky peat.

A framed and autographed portrait of Mandy Patinkin, Kathryn Grody and Becky the Dog at their Gunks home. A rare gem of a photo as Becky is notoriously publicity shy. The photo will be signed by Mandy and Kathryn, but Becky has a strict no autograph policy.

Photo credit: Tonje Thilesen.

Legendary Gunks climber, Lynn Hill, has donated a signed T-shirt and a copy of her book (unsigned), Climbing Free - My Life in the Vertical World. Lynn is the first person to ever free climb the Nose at El Capitan in 1993. But before conquering The Nose Lynn spent years pioneering free climbing routes in the Gunks. Show your love for Lynn and for the Preserve with a big big on this item!

Relax in true Gunks style with a hand-build bench from Mohonk Mountain House Senior Rustic Furniture Artist Carpenter Cody Claussen, who designed and built this naturally elegant Eastern Cedar bench especially for Mohonk Preserve. Cody's personally responsible for building dozens of summer houses and helping maintain 1,600 railings and over 100 benches at the Mountain House. If you have seen any of newest summer houses at the Mountain House, then you know what kind of detail and talent Cody puts into everything he builds. He also led the crew on the new summer house at the Preserve's Testimonial Gateway, and he's incorporated all that experience into this creation, crafted by someone who knows and loves both woodworking and the Gunks. This year's bench "balances" both new and old designs just right. With the winning bid, you will be "sitting pretty" with this one of a kind creation.

Explore the Gorges of the Lower Salmon River in Idaho During a 4-Day Trip for Two Complete with Craft Beer Tasting Each Night

Trip Departure:

July 22, 2021

Other trip departure dates available July 6, 15 or 23. These trip dates do not include special craft beer tasting (although beer and wine are served on every trip).

Adventure Overview

Soak up the sun. Ramble with the river. The Lower Salmon River in Idaho meanders warm, wide and mellow, making it a great rafting getaway for families and first-time rafters. Idaho's Lower Salmon River is home to some of America's most beautiful inland river beaches, super-sandy and sprawling alongside clear, mellow pools which are perfect for stand up paddleboarding and playing in inflatable kayaks. There's no shortage of thrill seeking either. Some of Idaho's most famous whitewater rapids, gorges and viewscapes-like Demons Drop, Snow Hole and Blue Canyon are just around the bend. The Lower Salmon River exhibits a side of Idaho seldom seen by most visitors. Distinguished from the forests and mountains that make up much of Idaho's wilderness, this river runs through the warmer, drier canyon country of the Seven Devils. The Lower Salmon is also a veritable treasure chest of intriguing stories and relics from the past. Known human history dates back to a mind-boggling 10,000 years ago when the first humans inhabited the river canyon, leaving a wealth of Native American rock art.

Craft Beer Tasting on the River

Why does beer taste so good after a day of whitewater rafting? That's a deep question?or not. In any case, we think you'll agree that after an active day of adventure, sipping an ice cold microbrew on the banks of a river is about as good as it gets.

Featuring a nightly selection of craft-brewed lagers and ales from some of the best brewers in the West, our Craft Beer Tasting trips are the beer lovers' alternative to our regular departures. After each day of vigorous river rafting, hang out with new friends and crack open a few beers beneath the stars while enjoying the gourmet, guide-prepared meals you've come to expect from every OARS adventure. Cheers to that!

Highlights

4 days in beautiful Idaho for two

Exciting Class III whitewater

Warm water perfect for swimming & water fights

Riverside camping on giant sandy beaches
Abundant wildlife including river otters and big horn sheep

Try out a stand up paddleboard (SUP)

Itinerary

Meet at Red Lion Hotel in Lewiston, Idaho

Depart Lewiston for a scenic drive to Hammer Creek in Idaho

Visit the Nez Perce Museum in Spalding and learn about ancient pictographs

Challenge Rollercoaster, Green Canyon, Wright Way Drop, Demons Drop and Pine Bar rapids

Journey through Cougar and Snow Hole Canyons-each offering a uniquely different perspective on this wild river corridor

Visit remnants of ancient Indian cultures and the remains of Chinese stone houses

Try Snow Hole Canyon's most exciting rapids: Half and Half, Snow Hole and China

Spot eagles, osprey, river otters, beaver, cougar and bighorn sheep

Slide Rapid marks the entrance to Blue Canyon, the most spectacular of the four gorges

Go on an impressive hike to a vista point, join the Snake River and swim a rapid

Pass the confluence with the Grande Ronde; arrive at Heller Bar for shuttle to Lewiston

Sip Like a Local with a Case of Wine a Month for a Year

When locals in the know want just the right bottle of wine, they head to Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits, where Preserve supporter Tim Sweeney and his talented staff will help pick out the perfect red, white, or sparkling wine. Now imagine enjoying 12 of Tim's picks a month for a year - that 144 bottles! You'll be ready for any occasion, from backyard barbeques to gourmet galas. Let's toast to Tim and thank him for his generosity with bountiful bidding!

Please note: Pick up at Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits. Expires: May 1, 2022. Maximum monthly case value is $300.

Three Night Escape to San Francisco and Sonoma

Enjoy a total of three nights in northern California, exploring the highlights of San Francisco and the rich wine country region of Sonoma. Airfare and transportation not included.

Sonoma
Wine Country doesn't get more authentic than Sonoma Valley, where rich soils mark the birthplace of California's wine industry. Just 45 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge and cradled between the Mayacamas and the Sonoma Mountain ranges, Sonoma Valley encompasses a rolling patchwork of vineyards, quaint farms and scenic parkland.

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Enjoy a 2-night stay in a standard Fairmont room (one king or one queen bed) including daily breakfast for two in the dining room. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is a beautiful Wine Country destination blessed by the natural mineral hot springs of Sonoma Valley. Surrounded by idyllic landscape and the world-famous vineyards that span Northern California, this beautiful mission-style hotel offers the ultimate retreat with its Willow Stream Spa, access to championship golf courses, signature dining experiences, including the Michelin award-winning Santé Restaurant, and exceptional accommodations and hospitality.

Chateau St. Jean (Sonoma)
Enjoy a tasting for two. Experience the Sonoma wine lifestyle. Delight in a flight of wines as you relax in our 1920s chateau and take in the breathtaking view of our Grand Lawn and Estate Vineyards. Hosted on the Chateau Patio, weather permitting, or in the Chateau Dining Room.

Benziger Family Winery (Sonoma)
Enjoy a tour and tasting for two. Benziger Family Winery is dedicated to crafting wines of uncommon character that reveal the unique characteristics of the individual vineyards and offer the best expression of Sonoma County winegrowing. A visit to Benziger Family Winery includes a tour of the vineyards and Wine Cave, where guests learn about their biodynamic growing procedures, the history of the winery, the family and the property. Guests enjoy a private tasting of several award winning wines after the tour.

San Francisco
Experience San Francisco, one of America's favorite cities. Take a stroll along Pier 39, sample delicious fare at Ghirardelli Square, or hop on a cable car and explore the sights like Fisherman's Wharf. Sample the delicious Italian cuisine in North Beach, find treasures in Chinatown, or satisfy your shopping urge in Union Square.

The Fairmont San Francisco
Enjoy a 1-night stay in a standard Fairmont room (one king or one queen or two queen beds) including breakfast for two in the dining room at this world-renowned hotel, offering an awe-inspiring picture of historic San Francisco. Centrally located on Mason Street, The Fairmont San Francisco luxury hotel is a short cable car trip from the bustling downtown, Financial District, Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf. The Fairmont San Francisco hotel is located at the only spot in San Francisco where each of the city's cable car lines meet. The hotel also offers fine dining with three renowned restaurants and lounges. With a panoramic view of the city and the bay from high atop Nob Hill, The Fairmont San Francisco hotel holds an unmatched blend of luxurious accommodations and superb services which make for an unforgettable stay.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Travel must be completed within two years from the date of purchase. Reservations are subject to availability and must be booked a minimum of 60 days prior to travel. Ground transportation is the responsibility of the winner. Certificates cannot be replaced if lost, stolen or destroyed.

Take Your Shot to Score Two Prized Premium House Seat Tickets to the Broadway musical Hamilton!

Boasting a Pulitzer Prize, 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and sold-out houses even after a four-year Broadway run, Hamilton tickets remain a hot commodity. Take advantage of this rare opportunity from Preserve Board Member Barbara Ginsberg and longtime Preserve Supporter Ira Schreck's generosity and secure two premium house seats to experience the musical described by The New York Times as "proof that the American musical is not only thriving, but evolving." Bid big for these amazing seats reserved for Broadway insiders - and Preserve supporters!

Please note: The winning bidder will provide donor with three alternate performance dates; for any dates that include two performances, bidder must specify matinee or evening performance. This information must be provided to the donor at least 30 days prior to the earliest of the three specified dates. 48 to 72 hours in advance of the performance for which tickets are secured, winner will be notified of the performance date and time.

Tickets expire one year from the restart of Hamilton performances on Broadway at the Richard Rogers Theatre, 226 West 46th Street, New York.

Beer Pairing Dinner for 8 and Music by the Fire at Mohonk Mountain House's Picnic Lodge.

Enjoy this very unique collaboration between the Mohonk Culinary Team and Yard Owl Brewery. Dinner for 8 people at Mohonk's Picnic Lodge. You and your guests will be treated to an evening of outdoor grilling and beer pairing with Mohonk's chefs and Yard Owl's Brew Master, James Walsh. Dinner will be a five course meal, concluding with dessert by the fire with music from a local artist. A spectacular way to enjoy an evening with great friends, foods and beer. Please provide a minimum of 30 days notice to date selection in order to best align the multiple partners of this experience.

A Rooftop View for Mohonk's Most Amazing Holiday Display.

Never before offered!

You and five friends will have VIP access to the Mountain House on July 4, 2021, to watch the annual Independence Day celebration. One of the most exciting days at Mohonk every year is July 4th, and with the winning bid your party will have access to Mohonk for the day to enjoy the grounds and activities. Once the sun goes down, you will be escorted to a special seating location high atop the Mountain House to view the show. Your rooftop viewing spot will include hors d'oeurves and other snacks and beverages. Sorry, no alcohol will be served due to the rooftop location.

Item note: Swimming and meals are not included. Meals could be arranged at an additional cost.

The Campsite with a View of Six States!

That's right, a new twist on an offer from the past. This time you don't only get to see the sun go down from Sky Top, but you get to spend the night at the Tower. Up to eight people and 2 vehicles (20 feet or less) will be permitted to camp out at the iconic Sky Top Tower. Never before done, this unique evening will include a fireside visit from Mohonk's President, Eric Gullickson and CEO, Tom Smiley, for cocktails and Mohonk history. Don't worry, Eric and Tom won't crash your party the whole night, unless of course you want them to stay? Camping equipment and food are up to you, however morning coffee and pastries will be delivered pre sunrise for your chance to catch one of the best sunrise in the Gunks. (Blackout period of Holidays, July and August)

4-Night Stay in an Ocean View Room at Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort for 2

This Experience Includes:

4-night stay in an ocean-view deluxe standard room at the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Daily breakfast for 2

Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico)

Enjoy a 4-night stay in an ocean-view deluxe standard room including daily breakfast for two at this 4-diamond hotel located on an inlet bay in the Sea of Cortés. Revel in the luxury of your room's private ocean-view balcony, sumptuous linens and richly-appointed furnishings created from handcrafted wood. Each of the vibrant, richly-styled guest rooms is the creation of renowned designer Paul Duesing of Paul Duesing Partners, rated #1 by Conde Nast Magazine and profiled in Architectural Design for going far beyond the ordinary.

This hotel offers exclusive access to the only swimming-allowed beach in Los Cabos. Resort amenities include two deluxe pools with swim-up bars -- a serene Infinity pool and Dolphin Terrace pool overlooking the Sea of Cortés, the Spa Oasis, two lighted tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

The casual El Meson restaurant presents a refined Mexican, American, and International menu with emphasis on succulent local seafood and fresh produce. Enjoy the expansive daily breakfast buffet with the refreshing ocean breeze as you dine al fresco on the terrace or under covered seating overlooking the shimmering reflection pool and Sea of Cortés.

An eclectic mix of historic architecture, world-class dining, and stylish shopping can be found in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo. Nearby activities include world-famous game fishing where you can fish for Dorado, Yellow Fin Tuna, and the illustrious Blue Marlin, hiking, horseback riding, and nature tours along the unique desert terrain of the Baja Peninsula. There are six championship Cabos San Lucas golf courses nearby, created by master designers including Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and Jack Nicklaus.

No blackout dates.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Travel must be completed within two years from the date of purchase. Reservations are subject to availability, and must be booked a minimum of 60 days prior to travel. Ground transportation is the responsibility of the winner unless otherwise stated. Certificates cannot be replaced if lost, stolen or destroyed. Purchases through charity fundraisers are non-refundable and cannot be resold.

Party at the Pavilion - Host Your Own Special Event in This Special Spot

Here's your opportunity to party at the Preserve as you host a three-hour celebration of your choice at Spring Farm's Slingerland Pavilion. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding, marking a milestone birthday, celebrating an anniversary, hosting a family reunion, or just want to enjoy an unforgettable party with friends, you'll have the full use of the Pavilion for the three-hour event of your choice for up to 50 guests. This magnificent open-air cedar pavilion includes a small kitchen space with running water and restroom facilities. Tables and chairs available for your use or bring in your own rentals. You'll also receive expert guidance on planning your event from Preserve Special Events Manager Tom Leader. So make your next event an affair to remember with a bid to match!

Please note: Subject to availability. Not applicable to prior events already booked at Slingerland Pavilion. Expires: May 31, 2022.

Photos by: Tom Leader

100 lbs. of Locally Raised Grass-Finished Beef from Full Moon Farm

Rustle up your bid on approximately 100 lbs. of grass-finished beef from Full Moon Farm in Gardiner. Through a cooperative farming project, Full Moon Farm has helped restore over 1,000 acres of prime farmland in the Hudson Valley, including using Mohonk Preserve's Foothills fields to raise cattle on a 100% natural grass diet. Specific cuts will vary, but you can expect approx. 40-50 lbs. of ground beef, along with a variety of cuts like steaks, roasts, stew meat, ribs and cross-cut shanks. A 5-cubic-foot freezer is recommended for storage. Get your grill on this summer with this incredibly delicious local beef!

Item note: Please order ahead to ensure availability. Pickup within 60 days of order at the farm, 54 Steves's Lane, Gardiner, New York.

Capture special moments with four (4) hours of professional event photography or four (4) family portrait sessions to be used within a year.

Event photography: Location must be within two hours of New Paltz. Number of photos vary by event. Full access to downloadable online gallery images at full resolution.

OR

Portrait photography: Location must be within one hour of New Paltz. Lifestyle headshots, indoor/outdoor. Sessions may be distributed among family members. No corporate headshots, please. Access to 15/20 downloadable online gallery images at full resolution per sitting.

Expires: 5/2022