By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief
(AP Photo/Jorge Cruz)

I've never been to Haiti. I don't know anyone in Haiti either. I actually don't think that I even know anyone with family or friends in Haiti. But, like so many, my heart goes out to the people of Haiti in this time of tremendous tragedy and distress.

Places like the Red Cross are organizing aid for the island nation, of course, but I've been thinking for a few days about how I, with the rest of the New York wine community, can do my part to help. I still may try to organize a tasting event at a local winery, but in the meantime, here is an easy way for New York wineries and wine lovers to help — the Palate Press Wine Auction.

In a nutshell, the folks at Palate Press are inviting wine lovers to donate bottles from their cellars for an online auction, with all of the proceeds going to help the people of Haiti. I'll be donating something myself, but I thought that this is an opportunity for New York wineries and all of their fans to help the cause. The wines will be auctioned off by the case, so I thought I'd help the New York wine community put together at least a couple cases of wine for the effort. 

If you are a winery, wine shop or wine lover interested in donating a bottle or more to be auctioned off by Palate Press, please either leave a comment on this post or send me an email with your donation.

I'm going to wait until early next week to let the auction organizers what we have from the New York community, so let me know as soon as possible.