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Spring Barrel at a Glance: Lunch, Live Music & Special Events

Wednesday, April 17th, 2013

Spring Barrel 2013, April 26-28, in the Yakima Valley.  Come, taste new releases from the barrel and enjoy an educational experience with winemakers, plus discounts on wine.  Spring Barrel is all about the wine and most wineries offer a bit of food paired with the new wines, if you would like a meal, the wineries listed below will have food available for purchase. You will need to bring your own wineglass or purchase one at a winery or the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center.  Sit and listen to live music while you enjoy your lunch. The list below includes the wineries offering live music during Spring Barrel weekend. For a comprehensive list of all the wines offered by the wineries and their wine and food pairings, check the Wineries of Yakima (WAY), Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail, Wine Yakima Valley, Visit Yakima Valley websites. 

Spring Barrel Tasting Wine And Dine: New this year for Wine Yakima Valley Premier Pass holders:  Local restaurants will feature a Wine & Dine special in celebration of Spring Barrel Tasting weekend.  Beginning April 24 – April 28, participating restaurants will offer a food and wine combination featuring local Yakima Valley wine. Premier Pass holders can bring their Pass to any of the participating restaurants for validation and receive a limited edition 30th anniversary logo glass with each meal purchased.

Winery Association of Yakima (WAY)/Downtown Yakima

  • AntoLin Cellars: In the Production Facility at 10 North 6th Ave: Live music by “Rondi Marsh and the Jazz Crush Combo”, Friday April 26th from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Barrel tasting at 6th Ave location only.
  • Antolin Cellars/Lookout Point Tasting Room: 16 North 2nd St. Delicious small plates for purchase to pair with excellent wines.
  • Kana Winery: Outside BBQ Fri-Sat, serving Hog Wild BBQ from 1PM – 3PM. Acoustic music Fri-Sat 5PM-7PM.
  • Gilbert Cellars Tasting Room: 5 N Front Street in Historic Downtown Yakima.  Live music from Navid Eliot, 7-10p. No cover.
  • At the Cave: 2620 Draper Road in West Valley, Concert Saturday 1pm-4pm. Chad Bault, Navid Eliot, and Jennifer Borst of Not Amy.  Wine by the glass and light snacks will be available for purchase.
  • Naches Heights Vineyard: Friday, musician Adrienne Bosquet 7-9pm. Saturday, Jim Henson “The Muppet Man” 12-3pm, and Stimulus Package 4-7pm. BBQ food specials.
  • Treveri Sparkling Wines: Live music on Saturday. Friday reservation only Fondue Night Happy Hour 4.26.  Reservations 509-877-0925.  Saturday and Sunday, Derick from “Our Kitchen” catering  provides Asian Slaw Taco’s and several other homemade food items on premises.
  • Wilridge Vineyard: Live music Saturday by, These Guitars Say Sorry 1:00 to 4:00pm.

Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail/Zillah Wineries. 

  • Agate Field Vineyard: Enjoy live music Sat & Sun afternoon with Alexius Harris.  Salsa Dogs for purchase.
  • Bonair Winery: Slava will be serenading Saturday with  Russian love songs and ballads. Miz Dee and her mouth-watering southern ribs, chicken and jambalaya will be serving up food on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Cultura Winery: Guerra’s Gourmet Saturday, April 27th, serving up their wine valley gourmet hot dog lunches on the patio on both Saturday 10 am-5 pm.
  • Horizon’s Edge: Come out and listen to some awesome music by our live band on Saturday April 27th from 12:30 – 4:00PM.
  • Hyatt Vineyard: Food and music on Saturday and Sunday - Rondi Marsh & Band.  Lutong Pinoy Bar BQ for purchase.
  • Knight Hill Winery: Live music by Hot BBQ Saturday at 1pm. Gourmet Hotdogs available for purchase on Saturday.
  • Silver Lake Winery: Live music both Saturday and Sunday along with local vendors for all your needs. Saturday- “The Village Musicians.” Sunday- Landon, from “The Village Musicians”.
  • Steppe Cellars: Wood-fired pizza on Saturday, April 27 – Snack plates available every day.  Enjoy a picnic, award winning wine and some great views of the valley.
  • Two Mountain Winery: Saturday, the 27th,  Tacos Urapan serving tacos for $1 a piece.
  • Wineglass Cellars: Hand-crafted wood items will be on display by artisan Marx Menzel.

Yakima Valley Community College/Grandview WA

  • Yakima Valley Vintners:  Student winemakers will be providing complimentary facility tours with educational stations featuring the difference decanting makes, food and wine pairings and a Carmenere barrel tasting.

Vintners Village/Prosser Food & Wine Park/Prosser, WA

  • Airfield Estates: Live performance by local musician Adrienne Bousquet. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch from Hogg Heaven BBQ.
  • Gamache Vintners: On Saturday- Ladies can shop for jewelry with Cookie Lee while the men check out what “Educated Cigar” has to offer!  Lunch on patio with Garcia’s famous Tex-Mex!
  • Desert Wind Winery: MOJAVE at Desert Wind will be open for lunch and dinner service Friday and Saturday, plus brunch and lunch service on Sunday. Friday evening at 6pm, will also offer popular Friday Night Supper Club, featuring a three-course dinner with wine pairing by Pontin del Roza.
  • Walter Clore Center UnWined – Tickets $15. Saturday April 27, 6-9pm, Live music by Ruben and Robbie on the Rocks. Enjoy selection of wine from: Hogue Cellars, Legends of Washington Wine exclusive red blends, Mercer Estate and Pontin Del Roza. Catering by Alexandria Nicole Cellars Executive Chef Frank Magana.
Red Mountain/Benton City
  • Sleeping Dog Wines: “Formally” releasing 2010 Montepulciano, to the best of our knowledge the only current bottling of this Italian varietal in Washington State – and pretty dog-gone tasty!  Samples of a Sleeping Dog Wines Merlot-infused dark chocolate.
  • Tapteil Vineyard Winery: Enjoy sampling gourmet, imported olive oils, balsamic vinegars and salts. Drink in the panoramic view of the Yakima Valley and Red Mountain AVA from our patio terrace.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Posted in travel yakima, Uncategorized, Washington Wine Country, Wineries, wines, Yakima Tourism, Yakima Valley Events | No Comments »

Celebrate at Sneak Peek to Spring Barrel

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013

The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (VIC) celebrates 10 years of serving visitors to the Yakima Valley in 2013. Built in 2003, with the vision to promote the Yakima Valley’s growing wine country, the Visitor Center has become the first stop for information on lodging, restaurants, activities and events.

One of the events during this year long celebration, “Sneak Peek to Spring Barrel,” will be April 11, 2013, at Le Chateau.  Wine Diva’s will be hosting this event.  Come enjoy local wine tasting, live music, Hors D’Oeuvers, Spring fashions, shopping, raffle prizes and more. This is an all lady, 21 and over event. The Visitor Center will be offering a Gift Bag valued at $25 with every ticket. The gift bag will include 4 wine tasting coupons, to be used anytime during the evening, a glass of wine, a lite-up wine glass, Washington Wine Country Coasters; It’s All about the Pretzels, Spring Barrel Wine Tasting winery information, coupons and so much more. Tickets to the event are $30. Visit the Yakima Valley’s beautiful Tuscan style Visitor Center for your tickets.

The Yakima Valley Visitor Center provides information covering the Yakima Valley, most cities in Washington State, plus Oregon, Idaho, Montana.  In 2006 the gift shop was added featuring local Yakima Valley made products and artwork, souvenirs plus specialty gift items.  In 2011 the gift shop expanded its selection of local wines for purchase and began offering wine tasting 4 premiums Yakima Valley wines with the purchase of a $5.00 Govino wine glass.

The Yakima Valley Visitor Center is located across the street from Target Store at 101 North Fair Ave. Exit 33 off I-82. (map)

Come celebrate with us.

 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Author of “Sideways” and “Vertical” Novels to Speak in Yakima Washington

Wednesday, March 27th, 2013

Author and screenplay writer Rex Pickett will be the featured guest and presenter at BLEND, a  reception and wine event April 18th, 5:30 p.m. in the Yakima Convention Center  hosted by the Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau.

Pickett has written many screenplays for both film and television. He wrote the novelSideways, which was made into the famousOscar-winning film of the same title by Alexander Payne. In 2011 he wrote and independently published his Sideways sequel Vertical. It won the prestigious Gold Medal for Fiction from the Independent Publishers Book Awards last year.

Rex has now has turned Sideways into a critically-acclaimed play. After a successful six month run in Santa Monica, “Sideways” the play will now go to the La Jolla Playhouse where it will be prepped for its Broadway run. Rex is currently the wine columnist for Town & Country Magazine and is writing a pilot for HBO titled The Nose. He also blogs for Huffington Post Books. Inklings Bookshop will have copies of Mr. Pickett’s books available for purchase  and autographs after his talk.

BLEND is open to the public and includes the opportunity to meet and hear Mr. Pickett, enjoy wine by Yakima Valley wineries plus sumptuous appetizers and more.  Cost is $25 per person. To reserve call 509-575-3010 or email laura@visityakima.com. Online tickets are available here (small transaction fee applies).

Participating wineries include Two Mountain Winery, Kana Winery, Milbrandt Vineyards, Gilbert Cellars, Airfield Estates, Sleeping Dog Wines, Treveri Cellars sparkling wine,  Knight Hill Winery, Kestrel Vintners & Cultura Wine.

Sponsors to date include the Holiday Inn and Oxford Inn and Suites of Yakima. Riedel stemware sponsored by Paul Berndt, Prudential Almon Realty

Tweets about “#blendyakima”

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Spring Barrel Tasting in Yakima Valley Washington

Tuesday, March 26th, 2013

Spring Barrel Tasting is a festive event.  It’s the largest wine festival in Washington’s wine country, a celebration of spring, release of new wines and a peek at the warm summer months ahead. The winemakers and staff are on hand to mingle with visitors, conduct tours and answer questions. Most open a barrel or two of future vintages for sampling. Many wineries have live music, appetizers and present a festive mood. As the event grows and more wineries come on line, a little pre-planning helps to best enjoy the festivities.

Here are a few tips to help make the celebration fun for all:

  • It’s social so be social: Gather friends and get a limo or join an organized tour. It’s best to plan at least one night stay. For a listing of local spring lodging packages in the Yakima Valley. click here.
  • Take responsibility: If you do not hire a professional driver, designate a non-drinking driver. And treat the designated driver like a king or queen by buying their lunch and a bottle or two to enjoy at a later time. Note: Even if you have a designated driver, the tasting room staff is not allowed to serve you if you are impaired… it’s the law.
  • Get the scoop: Wineries and wine organizations have different dates, the offerings and fees (or no fees).  Before you arrive, visit the wine association websites for the details on their offerings and programs. Visit Wine Yakima Valley and the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail websites for the details (see below for their contact information and websites).  The 2013 dates for this event are: The Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail Spring Barrel Tasting, April 20 and 21.  The Wine Yakima Valley Spring Barrel Tasting, April 26-28, 2013.
  • Timing is everything: Friday and Sunday tend to be quieter so visit on those days.
  • Do it differently: Go to wineries early and in the opposite direction as everyone else is traveling. Many folks start at one end of the Yakima Valley and head to the other so consider starting with wineries in the middle of the map.
  • Be realistic: It’s not a marathon race. Visit no more than 4-5 wineries per day. Your taste pallet will grow numb.
  • Be prepared: Bring a cooler filled with bottled water and snacks. Pack a picnic, as many of the Yakima Valley wineries have picnic grounds or plan on eating lunch at one of the wineries that will be serving food. A good meal helps you to regain your palate and provides a needed break. Plus, bring a wine glass per person or be prepared to purchase one at a winery. Wine glasses are required at most wineries during event weekends. Also, if it is warm, consider a cooler for your purchased wines. Heat is bad for wine.
  • Try something new: Tasting from the barrel is very different then trying a finished product out of a bottle. Talk to the winemaker and staff. Ask about the flavor, process and how the wine will taste when finished. It’s a great time to gain a greater appreciation of the wine-making process.
  • Be Patient: The weekend draws a lot of people and staff at the wineries are working as fast as they can.
  • Be Respectful…of other tasters and the staff. Try not to get too pushy or grouchy. Everyone is having fun and there are just a lot of people.
  • Be aware: When it is busy in the tasting room, it’s important that you step up to the bar and receive your taste, then step back and take your time smelling and tasting the wine. This allows others up to the bar to get a taste. In other words, don’t monopolize the bar space in front of others who are trying to participate.
  • Don’t wear it: 70 to 80% of our ability to perceive flavor comes from our sense of smell. So please do not wear perfume, cologne, aftershave or any other fragrance, as it interferes with everyone’s ability to smell, and hence taste the wines. You should also refrain from chewing gum and breath mints.
  • Spitting and dumping is good: Just because wine is in your glass doesn’t mean you should drink it all. Believe it or not, you will enjoy it more if you don’t drink every drop. Your mouth won’t fatigue, you won’t become as intoxicated, and you will have more fun. Dumping excess wine into the provided bucket is okay. If you like the wine, buy a bottle or two.
  • Leave it outside: All alcohol from outside the winery being visited is not permitted. This means beer, bloody Mary’s, screwdrivers, mimosas, cosmos, etc. The wineries can actually lose their license if there is outside alcohol brought into their facilities.
  • Have pets? Kids? Children are always welcome at the wineries, but the crowds and focus of the event may not be suited to them. And while a many wineries are dog friendly, for this event it’s best to leave the pups at home. For resources on traveling with your dog visit our website winedoggies.com
  • Buy-buy! No that is not a typo, it’s an encouragement to buy wine during the event. The wineries spend a lot of time and their resources to stage a great weekend. Show your gratitude by buying wine for another day. They’ll appreciate the business, and you’ll take home some premium wines, many of which are only available at the winery itself.

Twitter fans! Stay in touch with others during Spring Barrel events- use the hash tags #WAwine and #springbarrel

Resources to plan your trip:

For details on the wineries and their offerings, visit the Yakima Valley’s winery associations.
Policies may vary from winery to winery.

 

  • Winery Association of Yakima –Downtown Yakima and Naches Heights wineries

       510-719-5345  Facebook Page                                                                                                 

  • Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail
    509-965-4521 or 888-375-7498
    http://www.rattlesnakehills.org/
    info@rattlesnakehills.com
  • Wine Yakima Valley
    509-965-5201
    http://www.wineyakimavalley.org
    wineyakimavalley@msn.comThe Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.
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Bicycling In Washington Wine Country

Monday, March 11th, 2013

Cycling over rolling hills on scenic country roads, past fruit orchards, irrigation canals and vineyards,  bicycle riding in the Yakima Valley during the spring or fall is beautiful.  The  sun is shining, the weather is warm during the day and cool in the evening.  In the spring the orchards are in bloom.  In the fall ride past vineyards laden with grapes,  peach, pear and apple trees bearing the fall harvest as well as acres of hops.  Stop and taste the wines of the Yakima Valley. Choose a short (1), medium (a) or long (b) bike ride.

(1)Short Ride approximately 4 miles Two Mountain Winery is your starting point, allowing riders to park and unload bicycles at the winery. Want to get an early start? No problem! You do not have to wait for the winery to open, just park and go.
Two Mountain Winery: Established in 2002, this is a family-owned winery nestled in the Rattlesnake Hills within the Yakima Valley wine region of Washington State. Brothers Matthew and Patrick Rawn own and operate the winery and estate vineyard, drawing on the experience of three generations who have farmed the rich soil of the Yakima Valley.

As you leave Two Mountain Winery turn to the right on Cheyne Road then left onto Gilbert Road. Hyatt Winery will be on your left. (For a short  side trip turn right on Gilbert and after a short distance you will reach Reflection Vineyards. After visiting the winery return the way you came and continue on Gilbert road to Hyatt Winery.)
Reflection Vineyards are a family owned, small batch vineyard and winery located in the Yakima Valley of Washington. Our vineyards grow on a southern slope of perfect soils for premium wine grapes. Our winery rests on the top of a hill overlooking the vineyard and the Yakima Valley with views of both Mt Adams and Mt Rainer.
Hyatt Vineyards was established by Leland and Lynda Hyatt in 1983. Evolving from a modest estate vineyard surrounding the winery, Hyatt Vineyards has grown to 180 acres in four separate sites all within 3 miles of the original plantings.
From Hyatt continue on Gilbert Road, turn left onto Bonair Road, Wineglass cellars will be on your right.
Wineglass Cellars: Owners David and Linda Lowe, with son Jeff, say Wineglass Cellars is as much about having fun as it is about selling wine. A visit to the winery shows you what they mean. Stop by to make a friend and drink their award winning wine.
Tanjuli Winery: Yakima Valley’s newest winery building. The winemaker/owner, Tom Campbell brings 30 years of fine winemaking experience to the valley.
At intersection of Bonair Road and Highland go straight to visit Bonair Winery or turn left to continue on.
Bonair Winery (unpaved road): Bonair Winery farms 40 acres of estate vineyards in the Rattlesnake Hills of the Yakima Valley to ensure the quality grapes that make their wine. You pass the Morrison Vineyards on the way to The Château Puryear Vineyard and winery. Sit by their duck pond, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the day.
Leaving Bonair, turn right onto Highland. The short ride (1) proceeds along Highland to turn left at Cheyne, and return to Two Mountain winery.

…(a)Medium Ride approximately 12 Miles. Continuing along Highland, you will pass these wineries. (for longest ride skip to (b)

Cultura Cellars: Handcrafted limited edition premium wines from the Yakima Valley in Zillah, Washington Fine wines can only be achieved by personally controlling the whole process from planting the vines, aging in French oak barrels, to bottling!
Paradisos del Sol:”Wine should be very pure and natural. The only thing synthetic about our wine is the plastic cork, so you never have to worry about getting a “corked” wine. We drink more of our wine than anyone else; we want it to be healthful and nutritious. We guarantee our wine. BUT . . . it has to be distinctive wine. Wine with full, rich flavor, Wine that makes food and friends better. Wine that makes music in the glass sings on the tongue to tell where it grew. Wine you can afford to drink. Wine made by Paradisos del Sol.”
Turn left on Vintage road and follow the upward slope to Silver Lake Winery.
Silver Lake Winery released its first vintage in the fall of 1989. In the past fifteen years the winery has grown from 2,000 cases to more than 50,000 cases of hand crafted wine annually. The winery began as the outgrowth of the passion for fine wines shared by three professors at the University of Washington and a local real estate investor. Today, Silver Lake is owned by over 1,200 wine enthusiasts who have pooled their resources together to make Silver Lake one of the state’s largest locally owned wineries. Roza Hills Vineyard, Silver Lake’s primary source of grapes, are located In Zillah, Washington, in the heart of the Rattlesnake Hills AVA.
Return back the same way to turn right on Highland. Turn right onto Roza Hill Drive passing Agate Field Winery turning left onto Gilbert Road and then left onto Cheyne and back to Two Mountain Winery.
…(b)Longest Ride (approximately 25 miles): Continue along Highland Turn right on Cheyne Road, left on the Yakima Valley Highway, left onto East Zillah Drive will bring you past Horizons Edge Winery.
Horizon’s Edge Winery sits among the winery’s 18-acre vineyard with panoramic views from the tasting room which include Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier.
Leaving Horizons Edge, turn left onto Beam and continue to work left on Houghton Road to Highland Drive.
Portteus Winery (unpaved road): Red-wine lovers’ destination for over 20 years! Now with indoor plumbing! Red Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Malbec, a Cabernet Port, and Chardonnay! Portteus Vineyards, established in 1981, is one of Washington’s only 100% Estate-bottled wineries and has recently been recognized as “One of America’s Great Cabernet Producers” by Wine Enthusiast magazine.
Take Vintage out to Silver Lake Winery. Return back the same way to Highland and turn right onto Roza Hill Drive passing Agate Field Vineyard.
Agate Field: A small family owned and operated vineyard and winery located on a hill overlooking Whiskey Canyon where the soil is optimal for growing wine grapes. The volcanic soil and the lay of the land make the perfect location for the best growing conditions. The fields are full of beautiful agates rich in color and clarity. The same is true of the wines produced from Agate Field Vineyards.
Leaving Agate Field turn right onto Roza Hill Drive turning left onto Gilbert and then left onto Cheyne and back to Two Mountain Winery.

Fall organized  biking event Late September: Apple Valley Kiwanis Wine Country Trek. A 2 day 120 miles of rolling hills, from Moxee, WA to Prosser, WA.  Riders arrive in Prosser just in time to participate in Prosser’s Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Harvest Festival in Prosser.
Bike Ride in Yakima Valley: Yakima to Naches.  More Info.
Bicycle the 10 mile Yakima Greenway from Yakima Hotels.  More Info.

Preparations for your ride Yakima Valley: Goat heads puncture vine is  a low-growing weed with 2 sharp thorns that puncture bike tires. Use thorn proof tires, plastic thorn shields or bring extra tube and bicycle tire slime.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.


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La Maison ~ Exceptional Cooking Experiences

Monday, March 4th, 2013

Enhance your visit to the Yakima Valley, Washington State’s premier wine grape growing region. Make plans around one of La Maison’ Exceptional Cooking Experiences.  Located on a hill overlooking the Naches Valley, you will be welcomed into this beautiful French inspired home by the owner, with a glass of wine and introductions to the other guests.  The evening I attended was themed around chocolate, starting with the appetizer preparations: Chef Magana prepared and served Cocoa Dusted Scallops with Cabernet Mole,  Portabella Mushroom and Chocolate Soup, Cocoa Coffee rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Romesco Sauce, and the main course, Salmon with White Chocolate Sauce (Amazing!).  All paired with Alexandria Nicole Wines.  He also made a wonderful Dungeness Crab, Cougar Gold Mac & Cheese, and ended the meal with Death by Chocolate dessert made with Davenlore Winery, Port Style Wine.  A delicious and decadent meal was thoroughly enjoyed by all.  Meet new friends or bring your own group for an evening of fine wine, fine food and a cooking experience you will not forget, and printed recipes to recreate at home.

The menus are varied and always include wine and food pairings, as well as extra cooking tips. Chef Magana classes are extremely popular, and limited to 14 guests, so sign up early. He offers extra tips, such how to make balsamic reduction sauce, easily slice onions, deveining portabella mushrooms, multiple uses for Grenache and many more variations on his theme menus. These classes are relaxed; one can participate in the preparations or just sit back and enjoy the wine and ambiance.

The video below is a previous class featuring Chef Magana Cooking Class at La Maison, Gilbert Cellars Wines and La Buona Tavola.

 

In 2013, La Maison features Chef Magana’s culinary world tour kickoff ~ Moroccan menu on March 9, an elaborate and unique Japanese menu on April 12 where you will learn  learn how to wrap a sushi roll, use a sushi knife, cook Japanese rice, Miso Soup, Sesame Seared Tuna, California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Seattle Roll, and of course, his yummy Green Tea Cupcakes.  Each course will be paired with wines from the huge selection at wines at ANC. Mexican Cinco de Mayo menu on May 10, includes Ceviche, Fish Tacos, Guacamole, Mango Salsa, Carne Asada, and Mexican Wedding Cookies.  Paired with wines from Alexandria Nicole Cellars.        July 12th will be Chef Magana’s 3rd annual, and very popular Paella Party on the Patio. Chef Magana will be creating Tapas, Tapas and more Tapas, along with his signature Paella paired with wines from Alelxandria Nicole Cellars.  Class starts at 6:00 pm.  This class will be open to 25 and spill out onto the patio for a fabulous view for this summer event.

For the adventurous, enjoy a Titanic evening. Chef Brad Smith will recreate a portion of the elaborate menu dined on by the first class passengers on April 14th, 1912.  Chef Brad will portray the infamous Chef Charles Joughin, Titanic Chef and survivor of the disaster. Expect stories from the Titanic, music, and you are encouraged to wear period dress to join in the fun.

EXTRA: Save the date: June 22, 2013. Just announced Robin Leventhal from Top Chef, Season 6 will be in the La Maison kitchen!  Robin formerly owned and operated Crave, a popular Seattle bistro serving up comfort food on Capitol Hill.  Limited to 14, so sign up soon.  For a complete listing of the menus and to register for these exclusive classes, click here.

After wine tasting in the valley, this is a truly exceptional dining experience to end your day.

 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Posted in Culinary, Farm Fresh, Restaurants, travel yakima, Uncategorized, Washington Wine Country, wines, Yakima Valley Events | No Comments »

The WAY to go Wine Tasting – Yakima Wineries!

Tuesday, February 19th, 2013

Did you know that within a 10 minute driving radius of downtown Yakima there are 8 wineries to visit. These wineries are part of the Winery Association of Yakima (WAY).  They offer monthly special events which include live music, wine and food pairing. Looking forward to Spring Barrel Weekend? Don’t forget to visit the downtown wineries, whether you start your tasting at these wineries or end up there to enjoy the evening entertainment, this is the way to go.  Four of these wineries are within walking distance of each other and downtown Yakima hotels and restaurants.

Gilbert Cellars in the Historic District offers fresh seasonal ingredients perfectly paired with their award winning wines. On most weekends in their “underground” you can find live music. The Gilbert Family has a 100 year history in the Yakima Valley as orchardists and farmers. The vineyards are located west of downtown Yakima. In the summer the Gilbert family opens their wine cave to exclusive gatherings and live music. This is a great venue to taste wine, listen to live music and watch the sunset.

Lookout Point and Antolin Cellars have joined together in a tasting room one block north of Yakima Avenue on 2nd Street.  Antolin Cellars wines are produced from their grapes grown in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA. Their 2010 Viognier is listed at #47 in Paul Gregutt’s Seattle Times Top 100 NW Wines for 2012.  Lookout Point Winery specializes in Malbec and both the 2008 and 2009 were evaluated as 90Pts by Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast respectively.  The ’08 Malbec was described as, “Lively, distinctive and juicy, with red plum, blackberry, stony mineral and spice flavors that come together easily on the expressive finish.” The winery offers a superb menu Prepared by the winemaker’s wife, the Culinary Arts instructor at Yakima Valley Technical Skills Center in Yakima.

Kana Winery is located on 2nd Street South of Yakima Avenue in the historic Larson Building. Kana is a native word for the spirit or the fire within a mountain, in reference to the perceived supernatural power of volcanic activity. In the Yakima Valley, this volcanic activity leads to the making of excellent terrior for fine wines. On most Fridays you will find the winery owner and friends playing music. On first Fridays there will be a band and a special food menu. For Jazz lovers, the 2nd Saturday of the month there will be live Jazz with Rondi Marsh and the Jazz Crush.

Treveri Cellars production facility is outside of Yakima but within 10 minutes’ drive, situated on a hill with a wonderful view of Mt. Adams. This is the place to go for sparkling wines. Enjoy the wonderful selection of 8 sparkling wines, from their Extra Brut to Sparking Rose’, Riesling, Gewürztraminer and more. Recent accolades include 90+ point scores from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. Be sure to check their website for special weekend events with live music and small bites. Don’t miss this perfect setting for a summer refresher.

Naches Heights Vineyard and The Tasting Room at Wilridge Winery are a 10 minute drive from downtown Yakima, where you will be surrounded by the vineyards. Wilridge Winery is located in a 100 year old farmhouse with a welcoming front porch and deck area. Enjoy the wines and special summer music and outdoor movies.

The Naches Heights Vineyard is a short stroll away. Expect a unique menu paired with their  wines and and ever changing lineup of live music on weekends. Both wineries have a large grassy area for children to romp. Naches Heights has beautifully landscape grounds and you will be able to stay in a well-appointed yurt this summer.  The tasting room is features a fireplace, comfortable leather seating and tables for inside dining and wine tasting.

Southard Winery, located north of Yakima in Selah,WA is a family owned and operated estate vineyards and winery.  They produce Riesling as well as Roussanne, Syrah and Red Blends.

 

Thank you to the members of the Winery Association of Yakima (WAY) for supporting the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center as a Diamond Sponsor. The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center: Celebrating 10 years of serving travelers to the Yakima Valley in 2013. 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Thanksgiving in Wine Country Discounts & Unique Shops

Wednesday, November 14th, 2012

The Yakima Valley Visitor & Convention Bureau staff wishes you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.  A time for everyone to express thankfulness for each other, enjoy the turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, and start to think about the next holiday. The daily newspaper is full of “Black Friday” store advertisements. Consider taking a trip to the Yakima Valley for Thanksgiving in Wine Country to enjoy wines paired with delicious small bites in a relaxed manner, take advantage of percentage off  wine to take home to enjoy during the Holidays. While you’re visiting stop at one of these shops for unique Christmas  gift.

Below is a list of  Yakima Valley wineries offering special discounts during  Thanksgiving in Wine Country weekend as well as unique shopping opportunities for those Christmas gifts.

Thanksgiving in Wine Country discounts.

  • Airfield Estates: 10% discount off 6 bottles or more and a 15% case discount.
  • Agate Field: 10% discount on all wines purchased over $30.00, excluding reserves. Purchases of 6 bottles or more will receive a free Agate Field wine glass.
  • Bonair:  All gift shop items are marked down to help you get a head start on your holiday shopping. Buy a case of wine or mix and match for only $100: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sunset,  Bonnie Bonair, or Dry Gewürztraminer.  Bung Dog Red is on sale through the season for a whopping 50% off case at $78.
  • Kestrel Winery Case specials
  • Maryhill Winery: Save up to 30% off all wines
  • Silver Lake Winery: 40 % off selected Reserve wines and  50% off Selected Cases, Cask Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet  Sauvignon, and Syrah
  • Treveri Cellars: 15% case discount for the weekend
  • Wineglass Cellars: Holiday pricing will be offered on all magnums this weekend.
  •  A $10 Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail Passport offers 10-50% off wine purchases and waives some tasting fees. These specials do not expire until used.  Purchase at the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center or the Rattlesnake Hills Wineries.

Unique Shopping Experiences In the Yakima Valley

  • If you are in Prosser, WA, tasting wine at Vintners Village, Prosser’s Food and Wine Park, Desert Wind Winery,  or Snoqualmie Winery you are not far from Chukar Cherries original store and factory.  Take time to stop by and sample those chocolate covered cherries.  They will not disappoint, go great with wine and make wonderful holiday gifts. Desert Wind Winery, is offering 25% of items in their gift shop.
  • Do your holiday shopping at Silbury Hill Alpacas. The on-the-farm store is full of new items for winter. Offering beautiful items from Peru, the U.S. Alpaca Fiber Co-op, and items made from their own alpacas: sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, blankets, children’s items, yarn, stocking stuffers, and more. Open Saturdays from 11a.m. – 3p.m. Located in Sunnyside, WA
  • Tasting Wine in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA? Then Patricia’s Chocolate Emporium is a great place to start your day with a latte and cinnamon roll.
  • In Toppenish, The Yakama Nation Cultural Heritage Center gift shop offers unique Native America items and clothing. In downtown Toppenish, The Amish Connection offers handcrafted items and gifts.
  • Looking for ideas for the home? Real Deals on Home Décor is the place to find great deals on decorative home decor.
  • The Valley Mall in Union Gap will have those Black Friday deals you’re looking for, in the over 80 stores of the Valley Mall and Valley Mall Plaza.  Shop at Macy’s, Kohls, Sears, Coldwater Creek, T.J. Maxx, Pier 1, Cabelas, JCP and many more.
  • Take time to peruse the special gifts available at the exclusive specialty shops in Downtown Yakima, amid wineries, restaurants, and espresso shops. Stems, a wine shop full of unusual gifts for the wine lover, from Artistic serving platters to Reidel glasses to wines from the valley, you will find the unusual gift you are searching for.
  •  Ummelina’s International Day Spa for the perfect spa experience,  gifts that sooth and relax such as aromatherapy, organic gift sets, herbal teas, as well as books and CD’s to stimulate the mind and spirit. Linger awhile; take in the peace and relaxing atmosphere. Treat yourself to a spa experience before you continue your day refreshed and energized.
  • The Historic District, in a vintage railroad freight building, is an eclectic and funky mix of woman’s fashions, jewelry, scarves and accessories, garden-inspired antiques, loose teas, stationery, cards, and home decor called Garden Dance.  Looking for a gift for him, then raindance specializing in fashion for men is located adjacent to Garden Dance. Come for the Holiday Open House 11.24 from 11a.m.-5p.m . 1am-5pm. Garden Dance will present work by Leo Adams, LeAnne Ries, Penn O. Shelton, Kaia Sorem, and Lucy Valderhaug. There will be holiday gift giving, snacks, and libations.
  • The Shopkeeper offers gifts of distinction. A large selection of gifts can be found, such as fresh floral arrangements from the in-store floral department or beautiful silks for a lasting touch. Each year over 40 decorated Christmas trees are set up in the store for the holidays, all with different themes, colors and ideas for you to enjoy.
  • At Fiddlesticks you will find a unique eclectic combination of home decor, gifts, clothing, shoes, purses, baby gifts, kids toys, fabric gift cards and  kitchen themed merchandise.
  •  Vaux Shoes in the Westpark Shopping Center specializes in a wide range of fashionable and comfortable footwear for both men and women. They carry a wide selection of quality brand named footwear from all over the world,  Josef Seibol, Mizuno, Keen, Kumfs to name a few.
  • Cobblestones features high quality gifts at value prices such as Heartwood Creek by Jim Shore, Snow Babies, Clothrique, Santas, Dept 56 collection, Halloween, Willow, Dickens Village, North Pole, New England, Christmas in the City, Alpine, Snow Village and so much more.
  • Whether you are entering the Yakima Valley from Hwy 12, White Pass or leaving be sure to visit LaKat Galley in Naches, WA.  Select original gifts of fine are photography, wood handicrafts, and more, from artists for that special someone for Christmas.
  • For a Yakima Valley Visitor Guide and locations of the wineries and shops in the Yakima Valley,  be sure to stop at the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (The VIC), Exit 33 off I-82E.  The VIC will be offering tasting of 4 wines for $5.00 you can and keep the glass. You will also receive a taste of the White House Café Signature Cupcakes.

Come visit the Yakima Valley and take home the perfect wine for your Christmas celebration and specialty gifts for friends and family from the Yakima Valley.

 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.
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Behind the Label; Bottling Kana Wine

Monday, September 17th, 2012

The Yakima Valley features many boutique wineries whom enlist family, friends, and wine club members to help bottle their precious nectar.  Kana Winery, located in Downtown Yakima recently bottled 700 cases of Workingman’s Red, 600 cases of Dark Star, 300 cases of Scarlet Fire, 150 cases of Tempranillo, and 125 cases of Old Vines, over two days.

Custom Mobile Bottling brought their semi-trailer to the winery filled with a complete wine bottling system on wheels, capable of bottling 60 bottles per minute.  In addition, they brought an expensive modern filtration system that filters the Kana Wines before bottling. The winery owner, Dr. Palmer Wright and Custom Mobile Bottling  oversaw the complete bottling process.

 

 

The first person on the assembly line handed cases of empty bottles up to the person on the bottling line,  who removes the empty bottles and guides them into the machine on the conveyer belt. The bottle is filled, then corked and a person drops a foil cap on top (pictured).  The system seals the cap and applies the
label.                                                
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The bottles move down the conveyor belt where the crew place the wine bottles in the box. The box is then sealed, stamped and the cases are stacked on a palette.  Each palette holds 60 cases of wine, with 12 cases per row, stacked 5 cases high. Each palette is wrapped with industrial “saran wrap.”  The wine is stored until next year when it will be released. 
 

The bottling process was fun and educational and, as always, it’s  what is in the bottle that counts, and the 2009 vintage is not going to disappoint. As a side note, look for the new label for 2009 Dark Star.

As explained on the Kana Winery website, “Kana is a native word for the spirit or the fire within a mountain, in reference to the perceived supernatural power of volcanic activity. The Yakima and Columbia Valleys are awash with volcanic soil influences, providing terroir from the millennia of  “Kana” escaping from nearby volcanic mountains, to lay resting as soil for our world-class vineyards. Kana wines are the result of the careful selection of fruit from the very best vineyards, with emphasis on Rhone varietals along with specially selected wines”

                                                                                                                                                                   The Kana Tasting Room is located in the historic Larson Building in downtown Yakima.
Tasting room hours:
  • Mon-Thurs 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm
  • Fri- 12:00 – 8:00 pm
  • Sat 12:00-6:30 pm
  • Sun 12:00-5:00 pm.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Wine Tasting During Harvest

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

The season has turned. Nights are cooler and as the sun rises, there’s a mist on the valley floor.  Gold and red trees dot the distant hills.  It’s harvest time in wine country.   If you plan right, fall is a great time to visit and immerse yourself in the wine making process.

Here are some tips to help you enjoy Washington Wine Country during the harvest:

  • Plan ahead: In wine country many visitors come during the harvest and crush. That requires extensive advance planning for lodging, dining and activities.  Here in the Yakima Valley the weekend traffic is manageable and there are great activities like the Prosser Balloon Rally, the Wine Yakima Valley Catch the Crush event in October or the Thanksgiving in Wine Country event the weekend after Thanksgiving.
  • Check the website of the local tourist office: They’re a wealth of information, especially about harvest and wine events.  Also, regional and state wine associations are a good source to help you plan. In the Yakima Valley check the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail or Wine Yakima Valley for updates and information.
  • Learn before you go: Visit websites and videos about the regions and wine making process. Brush up on the art of tasting and basic wine terms. And if you use Twitter, try hashtags to follow the online conversations, like #WAwine.
  • Wine regions are agricultural regions: With a few exceptions, most vineyards and wineries are located on rural back roads. That’s part of their charm. During harvest though expect more traffic, especially farm equipment. In the Yakima Valley the wine grape harvest coincides with other fruit harvests. Be patient and obey the rules of the road.
  • Designate a driver: Basic rule for any season. Be sure to reward them for the duty though, like buying the lunch or a bottle for later on!
  • Pace Yourself: Plan on visiting up to five wineries a day. Your palette will go numb if you try to tackle too many wineries. Plus, during harvest you may want to linger to watch what’s happening.
  • Expect a different mood: It’s very different at wineries in the fall. There’s a tension and excitement as the winemakers and staff work to bring in the grapes. The hours are long and all hands are on deck. Ask questions about what’s going on, but be respectful if they have limited time to chat.
  • Prepare for the weather: And remember the wine! It may be cooler, but on sunny mild days the temperature inside a trunk or car can climb to a level not good for wine. Bring a cooler or two.
  • Get involved: Many wineries have programs where you can actually work the harvest. You wear your grubbies, get an assignment and work the fields harvesting or other tasks. It’s a great way to gain a greater appreciation of the hard work that goes into making wine plus learn directly from the winemakers.
  • Learn about dog friendly wineries: A great resource in Washington Wine Country is winedoggies.com
  • Fly to Washington Wine Country: Your Vacation to Washington Wine Country Just Got Easier – with the Taste and Tote Program. Check your first case of wine free from Yakima, Tri-Cities/Pasco or Walla Walla on Alaska Airlines. Enjoy waived rental car drop fees from Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Show your Alaska Airlines boarding pass for waived tasting fees at participating wineries.  Extra Benefits for booking your Taste and Tote Flight between September 1-15! Airlines to Yakima, Pasco/Tri-cities, or Walla Walla and save 10%! It’s easy; just enter EC2451 at alaskaair.com in the discount code box. The discount will be applied automatically. Travel September 1, 2012 – November 15, 2012, book by September 15, 2012. Not valid for travel from Mexico, Hawaii, or Prudhoe Bay. Additional terms, conditions, and restrictions apply.

With the right planning and attitude, a visit to a wine region during the harvest and crush is an exceptional way to learn about fine wines. Enjoy!


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