There are still a few tickets left for an exceptional Washington state wine event right in our backyard near the Canadian border, on April 15-17: Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort. So if you’re looking for a getaway with  spectacular views, good wine and food, what are you waiting for?

While some activities are sold out, you can still join some others. Details are available at Semiahmoo Resort’s website.

Some of Washington and Oregon’s most talented winemakers will be holding seminars, tastings and attending a gala dinner:

• Bob Betz and Louis Skinner of Betz Family Winery
• Darel Allwine of Col Solare
• Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars and Upchurch Vineyard
• Joe Dobbes of Dobbes Family Estate of Oregon

The event is packed with educational and fun times, opening on April 15 with a “Meet the Winemakers” tasting, followed by a private beach bonfire at the spectacular resort.

Saturday’s activities include an overview of Washington and Oregon wine country, with sessions on “Sublime World of Pinot Noir” (Dobbes Family Estate); “Succulent Syrah” (DeLille Cellars and Betz Family Winery); and Red Mountain Rising (DeLille Cellars and Col Solare).

There also is guided bird watching on the Semiahmoo Spit. What a great spot — we were recently there as part of the Northwest Birding Festival, Wings Over Water. (Yes, we’re bird nerds in addition to being wine enthusiasts.)

Saturday night caps off with a Winemaker Gala Dinner created by Executive Chef Bruno Feldeisen, held in the Peace Arch Tent. The special five-course dinner will be paired with wines from all attending wineries.

The event culminates on Sunday morning with an exploration of white wines from Betz, Chateau Ste. Michelle, DeLille and Dobbes.

We can’t wait! And we hope to see you there!

Cheers!
Margot and Dave