A Gastronomic Symphony Raised $850,000 at Houston Symphony Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction

A Gastronomic Symphony Raised $850,000 at Houston Symphony Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be on stage in one of Houston’s most legendary auditoriums and feel the expanse of the room? How about the experience of dining with 350 friends who share your love for great food and superb wines? The pièce de résistance would be to have one of our city’s most celebrated chefs and owners of one of our hottest dining destinations prepare the meals and have wines paired with each course. Such was the case for the sold-out Houston Symphony Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction, held on stage at Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, where an astounding $850,000 was raised for the art organization’s ongoing efforts.

Chaired by Symphony patrons Nancy and Bryan Ruez and Wine Auction Chair Jack Matzer, the event began with a red-carpet moment to be photographed before check-in. Champagne and wines awaited those entering while perusing outstanding wines and spirits in the silent auction. A high point of the reception was definitely a special tasting of Madame Zero Champagne served by its owner, Matthew Massey. A raffle of rare bourbons raised over $10,000 from excited partygoers before the dinner chimes rang and guests made their way to the stage for a three-course dinner by renowned chef Aaron Bludorn. The wines were carefully chosen and paired with the evening’s menu by John & Lindy Rydman and daughter Lisa Rydman Lindsey of Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods. The area’s ambiance of French-inspired centerpieces in varying colors of roses amid candelabras was created by the masterful hands of The Events Company.

Before the dining portion began, Houston Symphony Executive Director/CEO Margaret Alkek Williams Chair John Mangum took the stage to express his gratitude to the guests. The event chairs then gave heartfelt thanks to those in attendance. Then, they took a special moment to acknowledge the Symphony team, whose professionalism and dedication had made this evening truly memorable. A light-hearted moment followed when John Rydman shared the story of how he selected the wines for the meal.

The Bludorn feast began with Ora King Salmon and Short Rib, Red Onion, and Fig Ravioli, followed by Filet Mignon with Pommes Puree and Creamed Spinach. It ended with Strawberry, Vanilla Chantilly, and Lemon Curd Pavlova—a definite treat for all the senses!

We are thrilled to announce that the next Houston Symphony Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction will take place onstage at Jones Hall on Friday, May 2, 2025. This exciting event, chaired by Elia Gabbanelli, promises to be another unforgettable evening of fine dining, exquisite wines, and the joy of supporting our Houston Symphony.

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Ann & Jonathan Ayre, Jesse Tutor, Bobbie Nau, Janet Clark, John and Regina Mangum, Michelle Matzer, Joan and Robert Duff, Margaret Alkek Williams, David Wuthrich, Lydia Gold, Quentin and Aerin Smith, Hallie Vanderhider and Bobby Dees, Vicki West and Ralph Burch, Daniel Irion and Kirk Kveton, Karen Payne, Elia & Michael Gabbanelli, Mary Lynn Marks, Bob Weiner, Robert Sakowitz, Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, Tony Bradfield, David Peavy and Stephen McCauley, Aggie Foster and Steve Simon, Fabien Gabel, Virginia Clark, James and Kimberly Bell, Jacquie Baly and James Craig, Gayle Hollingsworth and Ken Hyde, Aaron Matthews, Leila Perrin, Jerré Williams, Diane Roederer