There’s an exciting new wine awards program launching! Founded by Laura Huston, the Belle and Bottle Wine Awards program is to take place for the first time in 2022. Not only does the program highlight top wines. It intends to give women a platform to share their expertise and elevate one another.
It happens twice a year. This time, there are some twists. So let’s talk about Washington Wine Month, new ways to celebrate with the Auction of Washington Wines, and how to win a weekend getaway to Washington.
When I posted about Walla Walla Valley Wine Month on Instagram, a friend commented that she wasn’t even aware that such a month had been declared. So, here’s some insight as to why you may not have heard about it, a run-down on what to know about the month, and recommended bottles to open.
First, let’s solve the mystery of why this vinous month is less than well known. Consider that April 2020 was the first Walla Walla Valley Wine Month. Well, the pandemic unexpectedly threw a monkey wrench into the inaugural event. It was a fine idea when originally planned, however, born from the notion that the vineyards come back to life in April. It’s also tied to Spring Kick-Off Weekend. That’s the special time of year when many wineries open their doors to showcase their latest releases. The hubby and I have certainly enjoyed our share of winery visits during April. I mean, it’s our duty as Washingtonians, right?
Photos courtesy of Richard Duval Images
2nd Annual Event Offerings
“Walla Walla Valley Wine Month is an unparalleled opportunity to experience Walla Walla Valley Wine, whether you are near or far,” says Robert Hansen, Executive Director of Walla Walla Valley Wine. If nothing else, simply follow along on social media to learn about the Walla Walla Valley AVA.
For those interested in a visit to the region, wineries have special offers for intimate experiences including elevated tasting options. If you plan to visit a winery in person, be sure to make a reservation due to limited capacity.
Alternatively, those who prefer a virtual visit at this time may explore the Walla Walla Wine Alliance website buying guide for special packages and discounted shipping while available.
Celebrate at Home
At VinoSocial we’ve been celebrating Walla Walla Valley Wine Month while simultaneously tackling the Washington Syrah Challenge! First, with a Gramercy Cellars 2010 Walla Walla Valley Estate Syrah. The 2010 vintage was a cooler one. The result is a wine that is still vibrant and loaded with mouth-watering, spicy goodness. If I had to use one word to describe this wine it would be, “Mmmmmm!”
A bottle of 2018 Proper Walla Walla Valley Estate Syrah was our next selection. With less age, this one needed to decant several hours before dinner. Plum, baked blackberry, and cinnamon were part of the intensely colored wine’s beguiling profile.If you’re a Syrah fan, Walla Walla has numerous delectable options that are worthy of a celebration.
Next up, we’ll open a bottle of Northstar Red Blend received as a gift from the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance.
On the drive from Seattle to Walla Walla, a historic schoolhouse occupied by renowned winery L’Ecole No 41 alerts us to our arrival in Walla Walla Wine Country. Unfortunately, after the hours long drive, the tasting room is usually about to close by the time we see it. We won’t have to worry about that on our next visit to Walla Walla, however. L’Ecole No 41 recently announced a spring opening for the “Heritage by L’Ecole” Wine Bar in Walla Walla’s historic Marcus Whitman Hotel.
Located in the heart of downtown Walla Walla, Washington the landmark hotel is a convenient destination during a visit to the must-see wine region.
“We’re so enthusiastic about the possibility to welcome Walla Walla locals and visitors to our valley, in a new and unique setting,” said L’Ecole’s owner and managing winemaker Marty Clubb. “Heritage by L’Ecole illustrates our family’s commitment to the Walla Walla experience for all wine lovers. The opportunity to ask our talented daughter, Rebecca Clubb-Olson, to design the space for us was exciting and rewarding, and she has done a beautiful job – striking a perfect balance, incorporating elements of our historic Schoolhouse and of our deep, enduring roots in our home Valley.”
With outdoor seating planned for the spring and summer, the space will eventually accommodate up to 19 seated guests indoors, with self-guided flight options. Wine lovers are sure to be excited to learn that small production and library lots will be available along with current releases.
It sounds like a lot of people are planning to spend Black Friday at home in pajamas this year. Well, then, I say we start a movement and #optforwine! To that end, here is your guide on how to safely and effortlessly shop for wine and gifts around Seattle this holiday season.
Local Delivery
One of the silver linings of the current pandemic guidelines is that some wineries offer to deliver wine locally. In some cases my wine was even delivered by the winemaker! First, check the winery’s website or social media channels to ensure delivery is available. Some wineries have a dollar or quantity threshold before delivery is available. Typically, wineries request that the option for “pick up” be checked while placing an order online along with a note requesting delivery in the comments section. Then they text or email delivery information.
The tasting room is based in Pioneer Square (former home of The Estates Wine Room). At this time, orders of $75 or more may be delivered in Seattle but I’m not sure how long the offer stands. My order was delivered the next day.
BONUS: tack on an order of pastry squares to your order for $12.
For the next couple of weeks, local delivery is available within 25 miles of the Woodinville winery with a $150 minimum purchase. Shop online and select “Pick-Up” at check-out. Then make a note you’d like your wines hand delivered and they will text or email to coordinate.
Pro tip: be sure to buy some Boushey Vineyard Grenache!
Library Wines
Is there a better way to explore the difference a year makes than by exploring one wine from several vintages? It’s certainly the best way I know how while we’re at home!
For the holiday season, Avennia has two of their signature wines – Arnaut and Sestina – available in 3-year vertical sets.
Virtual Auction
Would you like to add some Quilceda Creek or Leonetti library wines to your collection AND support a good cause at the same time? Check out the Auction of Washington Wines Bid for Bottles through December 3rd. Winning bids & donations support the wine industry directly through Washington State University’s wine science research – securing the future of the Washington wine industry. This virtual event also supports Seattle Children’s Hospital. So go on, bid on one of a kind wines from the Private Barrel Auction, magnums, verticals, and more from some of Washington State’s most celebrated producers.
Tasting Kits
Avennia
This leading winery in Washington State has really stepped up its offerings this year. Among them, a self-guided tasting will be available for pickup from the tasting room. Include it in a minimum order of $150 for complimentary delivery in King County.
Dusted Valley Tasting Kits
Experience a winemaker-guided tasting from the comfort of your own home.
Office Gifts
Elsom Cellars
The Office Holiday Party Kit includes a Cheese & Charcuterie Platter featuring a multitude of Seattle Made and Seattle Good Business Network member products, and of course, a bottle of Seattle Made Red produced and bottled by Elsom Cellars!
Gift Cards
Many wineries and local wine shops offer gift cards. Do you know a frontline worker who might appreciate the chance to order wine of their own choosing? Support a local business, celebrate a real life hero, and get all the feels! Effortless online gift card purchase are available from the following establishments.
Curbside pickup and online ordering are standard offerings at most Seattle area wineries. Some continue to offer tasting but under the current restrictions do so outdoors. If you’re comfortable with that, try to make an appointment ahead of time since seating is usually limited. Also, remember to dress accordingly.
Washington wineries outside the Seattle area such as Chelan based Cairdeas offer shipping included with online purchases. Plus, it arrives in Seattle the next day! We ordered a case of their Diffraction Red which is now our “house wine.”
In the interest of full disclosure, some VinoSocial clients are mentioned here. However, this is not a sponsored post, and I do not receive payment if you purchase from them. I also paid for all the wine I received via delivery.
