If you don’t have tickets yet for the Winemaker Picnic & Barrel Auction at Chateau Ste. Michelle, what are you waiting for? It’s just around the corner on Aug. 15! So run, don’t walk, for your tickets to one of the best summer wine events in Washington state.
The picnic and barrel auction is hosted by Auction of Washington Wines. Every year, we have always had a wonderful time tasting the stellar wines, talking to winemakers, and bidding on futures.
Winemaker Picnic and Barrel Auction, Thursday, Aug. 15, 4 pm
At the Winemaker Picnic & Barrel Auction last year, we chatted with many amazing winemakers, including (from left to right) Morgan Lee of Two Vintners, Charlie Hoppes of Fidelitas and Kevin Correll of Barrage Cellars.
This year, 30 wineries will be pouring more than 100 different wines. Wineries include Avennia, Double Canyon, Dunham Cellars, Sparkman, and many more. You can find the full line-up here.
In most cases, you will have an opportunity to talk to the winemakers directly, hear their stories, and find out what makes their wines special. You can taste barrel samples and bid on a case of future release wines.
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.
You can can also bid on unique wine packages and experiences in the silent auction.
Great Bites
The wines will be paired with more than traditional picnic fare. For example, Shawn Applin of RN74 Seattle will offer Lamb Merguez Sausage Sandwiches, Duck Fat Fries and Heirloom Tomato Salad.
In addition, these other renowned Seattle-area restaurant chefs will serve food pairings that showcase their talent: Tom Douglas of Etta’s, Lisa Nakamura of Gnocchi Bar, Lisa Dupar of Lisa Dupar Catering, Brian Gojdics of Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria, Kurt Beecher Dammeier of Beecher’s Cheese, Ryan Donaldson of Gather Kitchen & Bar, Molly Moon’s, Conversation and Trophy Cupcakes. You can find the full line-up here.
Summary
Tickets for the Winemaker Picnic & Barrel Auction are $150 for an all-inclusive food and wine tasting, with chances to bid on one-of-a-kind wines in the Barrel Auction.
This August marks the 32nd year of the event, which raised more than $4 million last year, and more than $46 million since 1988. Focused on elevating awareness of Washington state wines, proceeds benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Viticulture and Enology program at Washington State University.
Further details are available at the Auction of Washington Wines website.
Cheers,
Margot and Dave