Spec’s BYOB gala raises $250,000 for symphony
The invitation to Spec’s 20th anniversary Vintage Virtuoso Gala read “BYOB.”
The invited liquor and wine vendors knew exactly what to do. Each of the 50-plus tables inside the Royal Sonesta Houston’s ballroom was covered with rare or popular spirits — in addition to the gala dinner’s paired wines. Nearly 500 attendees were treated to Mer Soleil’s silver unoaked chardonnay with the first two courses (endive and Lolla Rosa lettuce and butternut squash ravioli) and a Caymus cabernet with entrée (bone-in veal chop) and dessert (chocolate Genoise).
Naturally, this all took place after attendees savored sparkling pours at the cocktail reception.
Vintage Virtuoso is Spec’s Charitable Foundation’s largest fundraising event, and it benefits the Houston Symphony’s programs to bring music education to the city’s children.
Twenty members of Houston Symphony’s brass and percussion ensemble welcomed the crowd once the ballroom doors were opened with a dramatic flourish. “In our 20 years of partnership, we’ve raised more than $2.5 million,” symphony executive director and CEO Mark Hanson said. “More than that, we’ve raised awareness of the importance of music in a child’s education and positively impact more than 100,000 youth each year.”
Flutes clinked, magnums were uncorked, and an additional $250,000 was raised at the celebration.
A Beatles cover band, The Fab 5, struck a throwback chord as guests departed. The hangover remedies thoughtfully placed in each well-stocked swag bag could come in handy over the holidays.