Ring in the spring sunshine with some of the region’s finest winemakers.
In this seasonally apathetic city of ours, it might be hard to believe that summer is right around the corner. As pleasant weather arrives, be sure to find a place for these anticipated, annual wine events on your calendar. As the perfect excuse for a weekend away, these are Seattleite’s wine affairs to remember.
Revelry at Red Mountain; Photographer: John Clement
Friday, May 6th- Sunday, May 8th – Spring Release Weekend, Walla Walla
The Walla Walla Valley Wineries kick off their latest vintage releases by opening their cellars and tasting rooms for the weekend. Visitors are treated to special events at the wineries including music, food and exclusive wines. Visit Walla Walla Wine for more information.
Saturday, May 7th – Ellensburg Annual Wine Festival, Ellensburg
Historic downtown Ellensburg is hosting their 3rd Annual Wine Festival, which features more than Northwest wineries. The entry fee is $30, which includes a 2011 souvenir glass and 10 tasting tickets. To get in on the action, call 509-925-2002 or email info@kittitascountychamber.com.
Friday, May 20th – Sunday, May 22nd – Spring Barrel Tasting, both Wenatchee and Lake Chelan Valleys
Meet the winemakers in this preview of coming attractions from Wenatchee and Lake Chelan wines. Participating wineries are open for the weekend of new favors, food and musical events. For more information, visit the Lake Chelan Wine Valley, and visit Wenatchee Wine Country for more details about Wenatchee’s wines.
Saturday, May 21st – Sunday, May 22nd – Savor Spring Wine Tour, Whidbey Island
Back for its second year, the Whidbey Island Vintners Association is putting on the Savor Spring Wine tour, where local wineries offer samples of wines paired with local growers, while food producers offer samples of food created locally for a taste of Whidbey Island. Tickets are $20 in advance at the wineries, $25 at the door or at Brown Paper Tickets. Price includes souvenir glass and the tastings of wine & food.
Saturday, May 28th – Revelry on Red Mountain, Benton City
Over Memorial Day Weekend, guests will join 20 notable winemakers for a beautiful evening at Col Solare. Attendees get to partake in a culinary feast prepared by Chef/Owner Frank Magana, of Prosser’s Picazo 7Seventeen, along with the ideal wine pairings. A silent auction will take place to benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation. Tickets include food, wine and entertainment are $95 per person, with a limited quantity available. Check out the Auction of Washington Wine Events for more.
Oy, the decisions to be made! Remember to drink responsibly and play nice with your fellow oenophiles. Lodging information is provided on the respective wine country sites and transportation services are highly recommended.
