Washington Wine Highway Event at Chateau Ste. Michelle
Sunday April 20, 2008
Chateau Ste. Michelle will be the site for the 3rd annual Washington Wine Highway event on May 24-25, 2008. Northwest foodies will be able to learn about the travel destinations and attractions from representatives from wine production regions in Washington state. Displays and tastings under covered pavilions will represent Yakima Valley, Walla Walla Valley, Columbia Valley, Red Mountain, and Puget Sound. The exhibits will feature each region’s wineries, restaurants, tour companies, and accommodations. You'll be able to taste wine and food and learn about tourist activities in each region. The Washington Wine Highway weekend is a partnership between Washington state culinary, wine, and tourism groups. Proceeds from the event will go towards the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Wine Industry Foundation to promote culinary and wine tourism efforts in the state of Washington.
Today’s weather (5/24/08) couldn’t have been better. The food was amazing with several of the vendors offering outstanding beef and lamb dishes as well as seafood. Cooking demonstrations were informative and a nice break from the wine and sun. Speaking of wine . . .
The wine, of course, is the star of this event! I found several old “friends” in the wines presented and met a few new ones that I probably would never have found otherwise. As indicated on the website it seemed that the best from Yakima, Walla Walla, Columbia and Puget Sound regions were all there. This year they finally got rid of the “script” method of tasting and all food & wine was covered by the admission price.
Music was terrific, if a tad loud, with Craig Terrel (the singing Seahawk) and his band and “Cream Tangerine,” a Beatles cover group that was certainly worth the time.
Parking can be a challenge At the Chateau St. Michelle location and that was only available for “Patron Club” ticket holders with everyone else parking offsite. More shuttle buses are needed for off site parking, but otherwise it was a flawless event. . . as it has been every year!!