(PD) - The Sonoma County Wine Auction on Saturday raised a record-breaking $6.1 million for charitable causes, with the county’s recent designation as the “Wine Region of the Year” adding a jolt of excitement to the annual event.

“The timing couldn’t be better,” said Mike Haney, executive director of Sonoma County Vintners as well as the group’s foundation, after Wine Enthusiast magazine recognized the county on Thursday, two days before the auction that raises money to support nonprofits that aid the underserved.

“It’s great to see our wine community being recognized and for people to have stepped up so generously,” Haney said. “It’s almost overwhelming.”

About 400 people gathered under a white tent at La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard in Richard’s Grove outside Windsor, vying for 40 lots. The contributions will be funneled to local charities, including health and human services and environmental preservation.