Back in January, I was saddened to report that Ben Sisson had died unexpectedly. There have been a lot of emails going around about how the local wine industry could celebrate his life and also raise a bit of money to help out his family.

Details will be available soon, but for now just know that an event will take place on Friday, May 8 from 7-10 p.m. at Bedell Cellars. There will be food and a silent auction of local wines and other items, with all proceeds going to the Friends of the Sisson Family fund.

Organizers will have a website up and running soon where you can buy tickets (which will also be available at local wineries.

Aside from it being a very good cause, it will be a great opportunity for lovers of local wines to meet the people who make their favorites — the vineyard managers and winemakers. Plus, something tells me that the silent auction is going include some great stuff.

Stay tuned for more information, but save the date. May 8.