Mark your calendars for this weekend’s 2009 Bishop’s Blend release party at both tasting rooms of William Church Winery (in the Woodinville Wine Warehouse district and in the Hollywood Schoolhouse area).

We tried an early taste last weekend, and we predict this moderately-priced blend will be an award-winner just like its previous vintages.

Back in 2009, winemaker Rod Balsley told us that he couldn’t wait to release this all-occasion red wine, the 2006 Bishop’s blend “that is truly a labor of love as we blended and blended until we got it just right.” He got it right year after year, as each vintage sold out quickly and won awards.

The 2008 blend was called “seductive” and “smoky” and “the best ever” by Washington wine expert Paul Gregutt in The Seattle Times. The 2009 vintage bursts with vanilla aromas on the nose, in addition to layers of strawberry and red fruit flavors from five different grapes — 47% Syrah, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 8% Malbec, & 7% Petit Verdot — blended together into one easy-drinking bottle.

Our recommendation – stop by the release party at either location, have a taste and pick up a few bottles for your Super Bowl party or to drink while watching the Puppy Bowl!

• Feb. 4: noon to 5 p.m. at the Warehouse Wine District and noon to 8 p.m. at the Hollywood Schoolhouse location next to Purple Cafe.

Cheers!