A Toast to Hope.
Nestled in North Raleigh, just minutes from RDU Airport, sits a beloved local gem: Westgate Wine. Known for its extensive selection of wines and spirits, Westgate Wine also hosts regular tastings. With a heart for the community and a desire to give, Westgate Wine generously welcomed Catholic Charities Diocese of Raleigh for our first ever Gather to Nourish: Hope Uncorked wine tasting event.
On Friday, March 27, 2026, community members came together for an evening that blended fellowship, compassion, and exceptional wine, all in support of the Catholic Charities Nourishing Our Neighbors campaign. Guests were welcomed into the cozy tasting room, where the atmosphere glowed with conversation and purpose. Chrish Peel, Co‑Owner of Westgate Wine, guided attendees through an engaging and educational tasting of six thoughtfully selected wines, sharing origin stories and intriguing facts about each bottle.
While Chrish regaled guests with his stories, fellow Co‑Owner Kayla Oelhafen ensured the wine kept flowing, filling each glass with care to create a
warm and personal experience for every guest. The Savor Food Truck, a social enterprise of Catholic Charities, complemented the evening with flavorful small plates that elevated the tasting and emphasized the importance of the why behind the wine.
Hope Uncorked was more than a delightful night out, it was a meaningful step toward addressing food insecurity across central and eastern North Carolina. Ticket proceeds, a portion of wine bottles purchased, and every donation made that evening supported the Nourishing Our Neighbors campaign. The campaign expands access to nutritious food through various types of food pantries, as well as nutrition education and community garden initiatives. The generosity shown at Hope Uncorked will have a tangible impact on families who rely on these vital services.
“We are deeply grateful to Westgate Wine for their partnership, to Chrish and Kayla for sharing their expertise and hospitality, to Savor Food Truck for their delicious contributions,” shared Lisa Perkins, Catholic Charities CEO. “It was inspiring to see how many guests joined us for this joyous evening and shared a passion for serving our neighbors in need!”
Support from the evening helps ensure that our communities have access to the healthy food they need to thrive. Together, we are truly nourishing our neighbors, one shared moment and one generous act at a time. To buy wine and continue to support Catholic Charities, please use the code ‘Nourish’ when shopping from Westgate’s online catalogue.