Pop the cork!

We're kicking off the 2007 Wine Auction & Celebration with a deliciously decadent Champagne and Caviar Reception Friday, March 23, at the prestigious Morris & Whiteside Galleries on Hilton Head Island.

Indulge in a sumptuous assortment of imported delicacies and libations while mingling amid exquisite works of art displayed throughout the gallery, including the dreamlike figurative paintings of featured artist Joseph Larusso.

We’ll be serving a variety of flavored caviar, smoked salmon and chocolate-covered strawberries, along with a fine selection of champagne, including R. Stuart Rosé d’Or, a sparkling wine from Oregon, A.R. Lenoble, a 1998 rosé, Alfred Gratien Brut, Gossett Brut, Mumm Cuvve M Napa Valley and Duval Leroy Brut, one of Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2006.

You’ll also have the opportunity to bid on two stunning works of art – Lee Jamison’s “A Last Look Back,” a 24-inch by 36-inch oil painting of a sunset on the beach, and Chester Field’s “Eagles Domain,” a 26-inch bronze sculpture of an eagle – to be sold as part of a silent auction. All proceeds benefit the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina’s Education and Outreach programs.

This exciting event begins at 6:30 p.m. and costs $50 per person.