One of our favorite summer events is the Auction of Washington Wines, a glamorous and fun weekend that benefits Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation.

This August marks the 27th year of the event, which has raised more than $30 million since 1988. The weekend kicks off early with the Picnic & Barrel Auction at Chateau Ste. Michelle on Aug. 14, beginning at 4 p.m. We have attended the picnic for the last few years, and always have such a good time tasting the fine wines of Washington state, talking to winemakers and bidding on some futures.

2014 Barrel Auction participants include: Adams Bench, Andrew Will Winery, Avennia, Baer Winery, Boudreaux Cellars, Buty, Cadence, Double Canyon, Efeste, Fidelitas, Hedges Family Estate, Kevin White Winery, Result of a Crush, Reynvaan Family Vineyards, Sleight of Hand Cellars, Sparkman Cellars, Spring Valley Vineyard, Va Piano, Walla Walla Vintners, Woodward Canyon and others. More than 30 additional Washington wineries will also be pouring wine during the picnic.

And what would a picnic be without great bites? Chefs from the Tulalip Resort Casino will provide gourmet fare to pair with the wine, including tents devoted to cheese and a themed dessert station.

Other AWW weekend events:

Winemaker Dinner Series: Friday, August 15
In one evening, 10 dinners featuring winemakers will take place at private locations around the Puget Sound. Enjoy a gourmet meal created by a guest chef paired with fabulous Washington wine.

Columbia Winery Charity 10K Race and 5K Run/Walk: Sat. August 16
The Columbia Winery Charity 10K Race and 5K Run/Walk & Kids Dash (formerly the Covey Run) provides fun for the whole family through a scenic course through the heart of Woodinville wine country. The event will also feature food, beverages, kids’ activities, music and more.  

The Wine Gala: Saturday, August 16, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
A featured Washington State winemaker will be seated at every table.

• Featured chefs include: Eric Triglas (Semiahomoo Resort), Josh Henderson (Hollywood Tavern), Jake Crenshaw (Olive Catering), Brett Teegardin (Purple Café and Wine Bar), Brian Scheehser (Trellis), Josh Sarich (Chateau Ste. Michelle), Janet Hedstrom (Chateau Ste. Michelle), Peter Birk (BOKA), Paul Duncan (Ray’s Boathouse), Roy Breiman (Copperleaf Restaurant at Cedarbrook Lodge), Perry Mascitti (Tulalip Resort Casino), Nikol Nakamura (Tulalip Casino)

Tickets for all events are available at the Auction of Washington Wines website.

We hope to see you there!

Cheers!