February Filled With Wine-Related Events
February might seem like a bit of an off month for wine-related events. But in spite of the plethora of festivals and special events one usually finds in spring, summer and autumn, there are plenty of things happening this winter during February, as well.
For some, wine tasting in February means pairing up a glass of red wine with a delectable chocolate or two. You’ll have ample opportunity for this and more at the Yakima Valley Red Wine and Chocolate event on February 16 and 17.
This is one of the largest and oldest tastings of its kind in Washington, with over 40 participating wineries from Yakima to the Red Mountain area. Purchase a $30 Premier Pass in advance and you’ll receive access to exclusive pairings, library tastings, and tours not available to the public. For a list of wineries and additional ticket information: wineyakimavalley.org.
If you’d prefer to stay closer to home, I know of a couple of similar events scheduled at Whatcom County wineries.
Dakota Creek Winery will host a Valentine’s Day Celebration on February 14 from 1 to 5 pm and Vartanyan Estate Winery is planning a Valentine’s Wine and Chocolate event on February 8 through 10 and 15 through 17 from 1 to 5 pm daily. The Vartanyan event will feature truffles made by Bellingham’s Chocolate Necessities.
Thinking about going out for a nice dinner with wines during February? I’ll be moderating two such events this month that might be just what you’re looking for.
February 9 brings a Washington Wine Dinner at North Bellingham Golf Course’s Nine Restaurant. An exquisite, five-course dinner will feature wines and winery representatives from Treveri Cellars, Robert Karl Winery, Barrister Winery, Terra Blanca Winery, and Dynasty Cellars. Reservations are required. Call 398-8300, extension 2.
On February 26 I’ll host a Zinfandel Wine Dinner at Bellingham Technical College. Each of the dinner’s five courses will be paired with a specially selected zinfandel and I’ll also give you an in-depth look at this versatile red wine. To register: btc.ctc.edu.
Finally, if your wine tastes tend to have more of a global preference, be sure to consider the Vancouver International Wine Festival.
This year’s week-long extravaganza of tastings, lunches, dinners and seminars begins on February 25 and features 175 wineries from 15 countries.
I’ve attended many events from this Festival over the past 10-plus years and found it to be unparalleled in volume and variety. Book a hotel room and plan for an easy, wine-related getaway. Complete details: playhousewinefest.com.