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.
Locus Wines
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.
Nota Bene Cellars/MCM Wine Co.
Delivery included in the Seattle Metro area. I am now well supplied with some lovely 2016 Cabernet Franc.
W.T. Vintners
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.
Avennia (Woodinville)
Esquin Wine & Spirits (SODO)
Locus Wines (Pioneer Square)
Viscon Cellars (West Seattle)
Additional Offers
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.”
Remember to take the pledge to support locally owned wineries! Now go shop for wine around Seattle.
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.