Williamsburg Winery Concours May 2 and 3

I had the pleasure of having lunch with Patrick and Patrick II Duffeler, owners of Williamsburg Winery. Patrick Sr. is from Belgium, and in the early 70's was the initial manager of Marlboro sponsorship in Formula One. He ran the ISO Marlboro F1 team in the early 70's, worked with Frank Williams of Williams Grand Prix and launched Philip Moris with doing F1 Sponsorship with McLaren.

The goal of the Williamsburg Winery is to hold a fully sanctioned Concours on the grounds of the winery in the future. For now, they are trying to do a proof of concept with Ferraris only. The winery has a 28 room Chateau' and a restaurant, tasting room, etc. We are assured we will be treated like gold. Due to Mr. Duffeler's (and Bob Weber's... formerly of Road and Track) contacts, a guest speaker such are commentators Derek Daly (former F1 and Indy car driver), Sam Posey, former driver, etc. will be on hand.

The first year (2009) they will do Ferraris only and local collectables (there are a few Concours quality Packards, Duesenbergs, etc. around). Essentially, a feasibility test or dry run, proof of concept, if you will.

They would like to host us Saturday May 2, staying over to Sunday May 3. It is invitation only and please contact me for indication of interest and invitation. Saturday will be a parade through Colonial Williamsburg and a blast (with Police escort) up the Colonial Parkway. Sunday, May 3, will be a "show" on the grounds of the winery, open to the public. Fortunately, or unfortunately, they are interested in very quality examples of unique cars. They are not interested in having 15 360's in a row. Cars must be stock, no aftermarket wheels, tacky accesories, etc. They are really stressing quality, both socially and automotively (if that is a word!). Goals is 25+ quality cars. More to come...

My Best, John ([email protected])
(cell) 804-356-9157

 

It is confirmed, Derek Daly, former F1 and CART/Indy 500 driver and major network commentator will be joining us for dinner, a social gathering and afternoon on Saturday May 2 followed by a colorful dinner speech, and then the "show" on May 3. There will be a private cocktail gathering late into the evening on Saturday PM, also, invitation only (some good Irish drinking!). Williamsburg Winery is looking to put an annual show "on the map". Kudos to them... they are doing it right!

To express interest, please contact John Dowling at: [email protected] or (804) 356-9157.