23rd Annual Cellar Depletion Party & Neal Family Scholarship Fundraiser

The 23rd edition of the Annual Cellar Depletion Party & Neal Family Scholarship Fundraiser was held May 20th at Neal Vineyards Estate on Howell Mountain. The 2023 Neal Family Scholarship Recipients are Arleth Bautista, who will be attending Cal Poly SLO and Talia Ricci, who will be attending UC Berkeley. 

The Neal Family Scholarship was established in 2014 to assist college students pursue the study of agriculture. The annual Neal Family Cellar Depletion Dinner is held at the winery every May, and all proceeds raised, over $35,900, supports local, college-bound scholars pursuing agriculture related studies. Established in 1998, Neal Family Vineyards specializes in crafting Cabernet Sauvignon from meticulously farmed, 100% biodynamic, and 100% estate vineyards. The estate winery announces the awardees during the Neal Family Cellar Depletion Dinner and Fundraiser which takes place annually in May and features a live auction where all proceeds go to support the St. Helena Future Farmers of America (FFA) Program. Since 2014, Neal Family Vineyards has raised $284,000 to support this program.

“We are proud to have awarded 17 scholarships for students pursuing agricultural studies,” said Neal Family Vineyard’s vintner, founder and owner, Mark Neal. “We are dedicated to ethical farming practices and offer this scholarship to further our commitment to the next generation of farmers. We look forward to supporting these bright young students develop new skills and techniques that will benefit agricultural practices for years to come.”

The scholarship is awarded to students who maintained a 3.5 GPA, completed 4 years of FFA classes, will be attending a four-year university and who are believed will support the future of the agriculture community. 

“As a recipient of the Neal Family Scholarship, I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity it provides. This scholarship symbolizes more than just financial support; it symbolizes the belief that others have in my potential, encouraging me to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in my future endeavors. It is a testament to my hard work, determination, and the recognition of my academic achievements. With this privilege, I am inspired to continue pursuing my dreams, knowing that the Neal family’s generosity has opened doors for my future success. It is a reminder that education is not just an individual journey but a collective effort to create a brighter future. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and using my education to positively impact the world”.  — Arleth Bautista

This annual event is eagerly anticipated every year throughout Napa Valley, the extended Neal Family and Neal Vineyards customers.

“As a family with our roots and legacy in farming, and two generations graduating from St. Helena High School and now working in agriculture and wine, The Neal Family Scholarship supports the next generation of agricultural workers in Napa Valley.  It was established to help with the ongoing education of those who will be taking care of our land, animals, and sustainable ecosystem.  We feel honored to support the students and our community in this high impact and meaningful way!”  – Mark & Laura Neal

Mark and Laura Neal with the 2023 Neal Family Scholarship Recipients are Arleth Bautista and Talia Ricci.