Southern Smoke Decanted is one of Southern Smoke Foundation’s largest fundraisers. Money raised will go toward Southern Smoke Foundation’s Emergency Relief Fund, which directly impacts food and beverage workers in crisis nationwide, and Behind You, Southern Smoke Foundation’s program providing no-cost mental health counseling to F+B workers in multiple states. In 2025, Southern Smoke Decanted raised $1.2 million—78% ($1,025,000) went directly to our mission to provide crisis relief grants and access to no cost mental health counseling to the food and beverage industry. View Southern Smoke Foundation’s impact to-date here.

Yacht Luxe Meets Street Chic. A perfect blend of upscale yacht vibes and hip hop flair—ideal for a sophisticated daytime affair. Think breezy nautical-inspired elegance with bold urban touches. Top off your look with a classic Members Only jacket and a captain’s hat for the ultimate high-seas swagger that’s sure to turn heads.

Yes! We encourage you to bring special bottles from your cellar to share with your table.

We STRONGLY encourage rideshare for this event, but valet will be available.

Yes. Tickets will not be sold the day of the event. 21+ only.

Yes, all of Houston’s Michelin-starred chefs will be serving food during the vintner’s reception, and we’ll have platters of fried chicken for each table during the auction.

Is this a question, or a challenge? With more than 40 vintners on hand, you will have the opportunity to taste at least 80 different wines during the Grand Tasting and even more during the Live Auction. In all seriousness, we encourage everyone to drink responsibly.

Some tables—Notorious Admiral’s Club, Grandmaster Champagne Captains—have early entry at 2pm, and all others arrive at 2:30pm. The event ends at 6pm.

Yes! You can bid on anything in the silent auction without buying a ticket. Bids for live auction lots may be placed through our Proxy Bid Form. Both links will be live prior to the auction.

You can transfer your ticket to someone else, or donate the ticket price to Southern Smoke Foundation.

All auction items may be picked up at the Southern Smoke Foundation office, located at 4200 Montrose, #430. We will reach out after both auctions have closed with pickup instructions. Payment must be completed prior to pickup.

Southern Smoke Decanted is more than just a wine auction—it’s a vibrant community that brings together vintners, chefs, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, attendees, and staff. Our mission is to celebrate wine, food, culture, and community while supporting those in the food and beverage industry. We are committed to fostering an environment that is safe, inclusive, and respectful for all participants.

Purpose
This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for behavior during Southern Smoke Decanted and provides guidance on how to report incidents of misconduct. Our goals are to:

• Educate our community about acceptable and unacceptable behaviors.
• Establish clear reporting mechanisms for misconduct.
• Describe our response process, including potential consequences.
• Provide resources and support for those affected by misconduct.

Scope
This policy applies to all individuals participating in the Southern Smoke Decanted, including but not limited to:

• Employees
• Volunteers
• Contractors
• Vendors
• Sponsors
• Committee members
• Event attendees
• Other affiliates

It covers behavior at all related events, whether in person or online, including:

• Official venues
• Sponsored events and after-parties
• Online platforms and social media channels associated with the event

Core Values and Expectations
We expect all participants to:

• Respect personal boundaries: Obtain consent before physical contact and honor others’ comfort levels.
• Be mindful of power dynamics: Recognize and avoid exploiting positions of authority.
• Uphold professionalism: Engage in respectful communication and behavior that reflects positively on the community.
• Promote inclusivity: Celebrate diversity and ensure that all individuals feel welcome and valued.

Prohibited Conduct
The following behaviors are unacceptable and may result in removal from the event and other consequences:

• Discrimination: Unjust treatment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, or any other protected class.
• Harassment: Unwelcome conduct (verbal, written, physical, psychological, or visual) that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
• Intimidation: Actions intended to control or cause harm to others or their property.
• Online harassment: Harmful or offensive conduct via digital platforms.
• Retaliation: Adverse actions against individuals for reporting misconduct or participating in investigations.
• Sexual exploitation: Taking sexual advantage of another person without consent, including non-consensual recording or sharing of sexual activity.
• Unwelcome physical contact: Touching someone without their permission.

Alcohol and Substance Use
While Southern Smoke Decanted may involve the responsible consumption of alcohol, we expect all participants to:

• Consume responsibly: Avoid excessive drinking that impairs judgment or behavior.
• Refrain from illegal substances: The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited.
• Maintain professionalism: Alcohol or substance use does not excuse misconduct.

Reporting Misconduct
If you experience or witness misconduct, please report it promptly. You can:

• Contact event leadership: Speak with a designated staff member or volunteer.
• Submit a report: Email info@southernsmoke.org.

We are committed to handling all reports with confidentiality and respect. If you witness or experience misconduct at Southern Smoke Decanted, you should report it to the appropriate authorities, including local law enforcement and onsite security.

Support and Resources
We are dedicated to supporting those affected by misconduct. Resources include:

Local support services:

• City of Houston 3-1-1: For general concerns and non-emergency issues at public events, contact the City of Houston’s 3-1-1 Service Center at 3-1-1 or 713.837.031 or visit https://www.houstontx.gov/311/.
• Houston Area Women’s Center: Provides vital safety information and resources both to victims/survivors of sexual and domestic violence and to their family. Visit https://hawc.org/ for more information.

National resources:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-HOPE (4673)
• VictimConnect Resource Center: (855) 484-2846

Conclusion
Southern Smoke Decanted is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all. By adhering to this Code of Conduct, we can ensure a positive environment that reflects our shared values and mission.