We have always had a wonderful time at the Winemaker Picnic & Barrel Auction at Chateau Ste. Michelle, which is the kickoff to the annual weekend extravaganza hosted by Auction of Washington Wines.

So we are really looking forward to attending this fabulous non-profit event on Thursday Aug. 16 – and if you haven’t purchased tickets yet, what are you waiting for?

The picnic and barrel auction provide an opportunity to taste fine wine from Washington state, talk to winemakers and hear their stories, and bid on future wine releases. Our cellar is graced with futures that we have bid on at past picnics, and it was so much fun, in addition to supporting Washington state wine and a great cause. Oh, and drinking those futures, once they’re ready, is great fun too, of course!

This year, more than 60 winemakers will be roaming the grounds of Chateau Ste. Michelle and pouring their special wines; more than 80 wineries will be represented, including some wines that will be available at the tasting bars. In total, more than 100 wines will be available to taste.

There’s also good news for bidders – the barrel auction has increased to 30 winery lots from 25 in the past. The additional five wineries all feature female winemakers. There are two ways to bid at the picnic —  1) on future  wine releases or 2) on wine packages in the silent auction. You can find the full line-up of participating wineries here (at the bottom of the page).

And we can’t forget the food! These wines will be paired with way more than what we consider to be traditional picnic fare. The talented chefs at some of our favorite restaurants at Tulalip Resort and Casino are preparing a special menu, themed “Taking it to the Streets – Al Fresco International.” Yum! Do check out that menu of tasty bites.

This annual summer wine weekend is a non-profit event focused on elevating awareness of Washington state wines, with proceeds benefitting Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Viticulture and Enology program at Washington State University.

You can find tickets and further details at the Auction of Washington Wines website.

We hope to see you there!

Cheers!
Margot and Dave