The 18th annual Wine in the Warehouse, the signature fundraiser hosted by the St. Croix Foundation for Community Development, once again transformed the prestigious Bohlke International Aviation Hangar into an elegant celebration of world-class food, wine, and community spirit Friday evening.
Attendees enjoyed delicious food prepared by local chefs and spirits provided by CC1 Virgin Islands. This year’s theme, “Philanthropy Rooted in Place,” captured the Foundation’s commitment to holistic community development across St. Croix. Since its inception, the event has raised over $1.5 million to support vital local initiatives.
A highlight of this year’s experience was the appearance of celebrity chef Eric Adjepong, the acclaimed Food Network host and Top Chef alum known for his work on Selena + Chef, Chopped, Guy’s Grocery Games, Supermarket Stakeout, Tournament of Champions, and more.
Originally part of a broader series under the Food and Wine Experience umbrella, Wine in the Warehouse has evolved since the pandemic, with the Foundation selecting this beloved gathering as its flagship culinary fundraiser. “We work hard every year to make it a unique experience for our returning guests and for new people coming to the island,” said St. Croix Foundation President Deanna James.
James emphasized Adjepong’s dedication to service and mentorship. “He is committed to the kind of service in committing to our youth,” she said. Local students had the opportunity to prep and cook alongside Adjepong, an experience James described as both meaningful and inspiring. “It is really a great opportunity for our young people to be exposed to real greatness and to see someone like themselves who has made a name for themselves,” she added.
Adjepong expressed how rewarding the experience was for him working with the students from St. Croix Central High School Culinary Arts Class and St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center.
“So, fulfilling. They were so kind and gracious and welcoming, wanting to learn and absorb. I gave them the recipes and told them to take it, and they ran. It felt good to feed into that, and I felt very proud,” he said.
Together, they created multiple courses utilizing delicious seafood in the main courses and sweet delights that highlighted the island’s rich local ingredients. “I think the island has so much to offer as far as the abundance of produce, especially seafood, and I wanted to celebrate that,” he said. He also shared his passion for mentorship: “Giving back to the youth is so important. It’s a mission of mine back in the States, so if I can share that on the island of St. Croix, I am blessed and honored to do what I do and share with people who love food as much as I do. I can’t complain.”
James reflected on the atmosphere within the Bohlke Aviation hangar, describing it as a true representation of St. Croix at its best. “It’s really a community effort, and it is a diverse audience. When people walk in there, I think they see all the best of St. Croix and everyone working together and enjoying company and community. I think this is a testimony to the Foundation in how we work and how we serve.”
Funds raised during Wine in the Warehouse support several cornerstone initiatives of the St. Croix Foundation, including the revitalization of Sunday Market Square, the Kids Count Initiative, and the Nonprofit Consortium. The event continues to play a critical role in enabling the Foundation to secure the resources needed to advance its mission and invest in the island’s long-term well-being.
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