Rachel Louchen reports from Pittsfield. Everyone could feel like a sommelier at the Berkshire Museum'sbiennial wine gala and auction on Saturday, June 27, with its huge selection of fine and vintage wines available for purchase via some vigorous bidding action  (yes, there were paddles). The auction has turned into a popular event, bringing together wine collectors for a great cause; this year's proceeds benefited the museum's educational programs, which provide 16,000 experiences a year to students from nearly 60 schools. The festivities began on the previous Thursday with food and, of course, wine at Hotel on North and a dinner at Wheatleigh on Friday. Saturday night was the main event, with a special reception and silent auction prior to the live auction and celebratory wine dinner catered by Chef Peter Platt of Old Inn on the Green in New Marlborough. If a glass of red wine a day really is heart healthy, after three evenings devoted to vino, guests and attendees are definitely in good shape. Above, gala committee members George Elvin and arborist Jim Koneazny of Peerless Tree Expert Co.

Wine & Spirits magazine editor and publisher Josh Greene with Jim Nejaime, one of the gala's chairs.

Longtime museum supporter Reba Evenchik with Michael and Cheryl Zaccaro; gala committee member Renee Erenburg with her friend, Tricia Roger.

Southfield residents Colleen and Sharon Koneazny support the museum; gala committee members Jeffrey Weber and Carol Rabin.

Contributor Claudia Perles, Laura Perreault and John Perreault, Executive Director of Berkshire Humane Society.

Stockbridge residents and event sponsors Lynn and Ken Stark; committee members Sandy and Isanne Fisher.

Diane Eshleman of Stockbridge (and London) with Cindy McCollum, also from Stockbridge; Hill Engineer's John Kelly, with his wife, Ellen Kelly.

Committee members Marianna Poutasse and Eric Korenman, who is also a trustee.

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