Project Zin 2025 by Charlie Palmer and Clay Mauritson

This year I was thrilled to return to Project Zin 2025, the unforgettable event hosted by Chef Charlie Palmer and Vintner Clay Mauritson. Each year, this celebration of world-class food and wine goes beyond indulgence—it makes a difference. All proceeds support the Down Syndrome Connection Bay Area, honoring Clay’s son, Brady, and helping countless families in the community. Read more about Project Zin 2025 below!

Wine & Culinary Experience

The Project Zin experience is truly a feast for the senses. Guests are treated to an incredible lineup of world-class Zinfandels poured by some of the best vintners in Sonoma and beyond, each glass perfectly paired with dishes crafted by top local chefs. The chefs are from some of the best restaurants in the area, including The Matheson, Single Thread, and Dry Creek Kitchen. Check out my blog on The Best Healdsburg Restaurants.

From elevated small bites that celebrate Sonoma’s seasonal bounty to bold, creative flavor pairings that surprise and delight, every station offers a new experience that keeps you going back for more. The energy in the room is electric—wine enthusiasts, chefs, and food lovers all mingling together, savoring each sip and bite in celebration of Sonoma’s culinary excellence.

Project Zin’s Mission

But beyond the unforgettable food and wine, Project Zin’s true heart is its mission. The live and silent auctions are the highlight of the night, raising vital funds for the Down Syndrome Connection Bay Area, in honor of vintner Clay Mauritson’s son, Brady. Guests bid passionately on rare wines, exclusive experiences, and unique treasures, knowing every dollar goes directly to supporting families and individuals with Down syndrome. It’s an evening that combines indulgence with impact, where the joy of sharing wine and food becomes a way to uplift and empower a community.

Me and Chef Charlie Palmer, one of the two behind this incredible event. Want to learn more about him? Check out my blog on My Interview with the Incredible Chef Charlie Palmer.