One of our favorite summer wine events is around the corner – the 23rd annual Auction of Washington Wines, which benefits Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington Wine Education Foundation. Called “2010 – A Wine Odyssey,” the weekend kicks off with a barrel auction and picnic with the winemakers on Aug. 19 at Chateau Ste. Michelle.

We went last year and had such a wonderful time — we knew months ago we’d be back again this year. What’s not to like? An August afternoon on the beautiful grounds of Chateau Ste. Michelle, top-rated Washington wines, delicious food and a silent auction so good, it’s hard to decide what to bid on. And this year, the picnic dishes are being prepared by those amazing chefs from Tulalip Resort Casino. Oh yes, and to top all of that, many of Washington’s best winemakers are pouring their releases and talking up a storm.

The next night, Aug. 20, offers a number of Winemaker Dinners at various gorgeous locations, from homes to estates, from Bainbridge to Bellevue, from Crescent Beach to Mutiny Bay. These unique dinners feature winemakers from Woodward Canyon, Thurston Wolfe, Barnard Griffin, Walla Walla Vintners, Betz Family Winery, Sleight of Hand Cellars, Gorman Winery, Mark Ryan Winery, Sparkman Cellars, Côte Bonneville, DeLille Cellars, Quilceda Creek Vintners, Andrew Will, Boudreaux Cellars, Leonetti, Long Shadows, Abeja, Cadence, Waters and Dunham Cellars.

On Saturday, Aug. 21, the popular Covey Run 10k race and 5k run/walk through Woodinville wine country raises money for Seattle Children’s Hospital. Register online for this fun event that starts and finishes at Red Hook Brewery.

That evening, the weekend wraps up with a black-tie Gala Auction at Chateau Ste. Michelle. A menu prepared by world-renowned chefs will be paired with Washington wines, and after the auction, there will be dancing to the Brian Nova Orchestra.

According to the website, this wonderful wine weeked, which is for such a good cause, is “The original, largest and most prestigious charity auction showcasing the stars of Washington wine.”

Find more information about all the events at the Auction’s website, and purchase tickets online too.

Cheers!