Jeff Waddell (far left),winemaker at East Fork Cellars, plays lead guitar and vocals with Les Cellars Rats who recently performed at Three Brothers Winery Wine Club Appreciation Concert. Viki Eierdam
Two weekends ago the park like setting of Three Brothers Winery—under majestic evergreens—provided a cooling backdrop for their combined Wine Club Appreciation Concert with East Fork Cellars and I had the privilege of attending.
Scheduled to begin at 4:30 pm, the crowd was a bit thin early on due to the extreme heat we’ve been experiencing but the opening act—Les Cellar Rats—appeared unfazed by the scorching sun as they covered hits from Journey to Kansas and an impressive Jimi Hendrix interpretation.
My husband and I scored premium seating under the recently-expanded covered patio since most guests were spread out with blankets on the lawn. Owner, Dan Andersen, joked with me that we’d taken over Walt Houser’s table and I can see why that’s his favorite spot; it afforded the perfect stage view under the comfort of shade and close proximity to chilled bottles of crisp pinot gris.
Guests at Three Brothers Winery’s Wine Club Appreciation Concert were treated to the soulful sounds of the Al Perez Band. Viki Eierdam
As more and more club members began descending on the grounds, the Al Perez Band took to the stage. The soulful sounds from Al’s acoustic guitar and the five-piece band backing him were masterfully woven but, alas, we had to make our exit before their set was up because, while I was visiting with Doug and Janine Julian (owners of The Vine Travelers), Walt and his lovely bride, Beth, showed up!
All kidding aside, that is not why we left. The arrival of the gracious owner and winemaker of Bethany Vineyards and our departure was simply a synergistic happenstance (you can thank us later for saving your table) because we were off to check out the inaugural Guitar Summit at Moulton Falls Winery with critically-acclaimed finger picking guitarists Terry Robb, Doug Smith and Mark Hanson while Drastic Measures and F.O.G. with special guest vocalist, Brenna Stillwell, would have the Wine Appreciation Concert continuing well into the evening.
Critically-acclaimed finger picking guitarists Mark Hanson, Terry Robb and Doug Smith performed at Moulton Falls Winery’s inaugural Guitar Summit two weekends ago. Viki Eierdam
Joe and Susan, owners of Moulton Falls, had their hands full with an appreciative crowd under a now cooler evening sky by the time we pulled in and the skillfully-delivered compositions of the trio were absolute magic. A recently-constructed stage (a.k.a Jake’s doghouse) provided ideal acoustics to project the sometimes flamenco, sometimes bluesy sounds of this stellar ensemble.
A recently-constructed stage (a.k.a Jake’s doghouse) provided ideal acoustics to project the sometimes flamenco, sometimes bluesy sounds of the inaugural Guitar Summit at Moulton Falls Winery. Viki Eierdam
It was like old homecoming at both stops being able to visit with Andersen, East Fork Cellars’ winemaker, Jeff Waddell (also lead guitarist for Les Cellar Rats), Walt and even Ridgefield mayor, Ron Onslow, at Three Brothers and then seeing author, Spike Walker; wine photographer, Richard Duval; and chatting with Joe and Susan at Moulton Falls. Wine makers and appreciators are truly a community of approachable, fun loving folks.
Two completely different concerts with two completely different atmospheres but each one hitting it out of the park with performances and talent. More outdoor concerts are scheduled throughout the summer at Clark County wineries. Gather some close friends and be sure to raise a glass at one (or two).
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The tent at Confluence Vineyards is toasty and festive with heaters and twinkling lights.
Weekend highlights:
Sat, Nov 15-Confluence Winery is celebrating their 6th Anniversary from 12-5pm with live music, food pairings, barrel tasting and wine specials. Come enjoy the tantalizing bouquets of Confluence’s French oak-aged vintages.
Sat, Nov 15 – The Northwest Food & Wine Festival at Doubletree Lloyd Center – It’s like a candy store for food and wine lovers from 4-8 pm. $75 includes samplings from a selection of over 600 wines and a smorgasbord of gourmet nibbles. Beer and spirits available, as well.
Sun, Nov 16 – Stoller Family Estate in Dayton OR is opening up their Fermentation Room to volunteers and supporters of Meals on Wheels from 1-4 pm. Attendees will be treated to a special wine and food tasting wherein Stoller will donate 20% of the proceeds for sold holiday gift baskets to Meals on Wheels. Their sustainable tasting room alone is reason enough to make the drive. Experiencing their award-winning wines and supporting the mission of Meals on Wheels make it a win-win for everyone. Must RSVP by Nov 14 to Meagan at (503) 953-8130.
Upcoming events:
Tues, Nov 18 – Volcano Views and Brews just came on my radar last night when I met Luke from the Mount St. Helens Institute. It’s a wine (and beer)-friendly monthly lecture series. This month there’ll be survivors and close witnesses discussing their account of the 1980 St. Helens eruption. Held at Loowit Brewing in Vancouver and repeating in Longview on Thu, Nov 20 at the Hop n’Grape. Guests begin assembling at 5:30 pm. Presentation begins at 6:30 pm.
Wed, Nov 19-The Kiggins Theatre hosts the next Hello Vancouver! Doors open at 6 pm, pre-show antics begin at 7 pm and the entertainingly-emceed internet broadcast “community talk show”, complete with lots of local talent, ends by 9 pm. It’s a free event with different guests and topics featured each month and the reason it’s added here is that it’s a wine-friendly evening. Event-goers 21+ can purchases glasses of the cleverly-chosen Francis Ford Coppola wine to enjoy in the theatre. I’m not promising the most amazing wine you’ve ever had but it’s a terrific local gathering. Recommended for teens-adults.
Sat, Nov 22 – Bader Beer & Wine Supply on Grand Blvd is hosting three wine tasting evenings Sat, Nov 22, Nov 29 and Dec 6 beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $20 each and include a tasting of all five 2014-15 limited edition wine kits paired with small bites. Aspiring wine makers should plan to attend one of these fun and educational events. Limited to 32 people each night so purchase your ticket soon.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available. Current offerings include Charles Smith’s earthy Boom Boom Syrah, AniChe Cellars’ Barbariccia which is a sangiovese blend, Locati Cellars’ Barbera and the ever-sassy Naked Winery’s Penetration Cabernet Sauvignon and Foreplay Chardonnay.
Burnt Bridge Cellars – Sun, Nov 16 – Hosting a wine education class focusing on holiday food pairings from 3-4 pm. $20 includes a glass of wine. No idea if there are seats left but worth e-mailing Missy at missy@burntbridgecellars.com to find out. Tasting their award-winning wines Sat-Sun noon-5 pm. Burnt Bridge wines can also be found on wine lists around town including Willem’s on Main, Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar and Roots Restaurant & Bar.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Fri, Nov 14 Five Star Cellars’ wine club fall release party from 5-8 pm. Not a member? Folks receive free tastings, appetizers & 20% off the first purchase of Five Star Cellars wine if you join Friday night. Also on Friday, listen to bluegrass band, Tried & Blue, perform from 6:30-8:30 pm while enjoying Farm to Fire Pizza for purchase from 5-9 pm. Come back on Sun, Nov 16 from 3-6 pm when Grape-ful Women will be hosting their Third Annual Wine and Toys event. $15 per ticket includes wine, food and an entry to win a Christmas tree. Attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped gift or gift card for a child. This event supports Family Solutions. RSVP deadline was Nov 12th but it doesn’t hurt to make a last-minute inquiry. Now open at noon Wed-Sun.
Charlie’s Bistro – Fri, Nov 14 – Old school crooners Boy & Bean share their love for prohibition-era jazz from 7:30-9:30 pm. Charlie’s has a great deal for wine lovers every Monday-50% off all bottles of wine $50 and under. Plus Saturday is always Flight Night from 4-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars – Hours for pouring their award-winning wines have been reduced to noon-5 pm on Sat for the winter months but folks can enjoy the new partnership with Gallery 360 in the same space, as well.
Evergreen Wine Cellar typically hosts a Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person but has several special tastings scheduled for the month of November. Contact Pam for her e-mail blast. Fri, Nov 21 will be wines specially-chosen for the Thanksgiving table.
The Grant House – Reserve your space sooner than later for their annual Sugar Plum Tea on Sat, Dec 6 from 1-3 pm. $30 for adults, $15 for 12 and under. Ballerinas from the Columbia Dance Production of The Nutcracker will be a special treat. Obviously not a wine-friendly event but The Grant House certainly upkeeps a nice wine selection in a cozy, historic establishment.
La Bottega– Terrific casual Italian dining with a wine list to complement each flavor profile. Tuesday night wines under $50 are 50% off and wines over $50 are discounted $25. Excellent way to enjoy some premium wines with their locally-focused menu. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti. Featuring Portuguese wines the entire month of November. Mark your calendar for their Sun, Dec 7 Wine Dinner pairing foods with Small Vineyards wine-an importer specializing in small Mediterranean wines.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Their monthly wine tasting event (Thurs, Nov 20) will feature Thanksgiving dinner wine pairing suggestions beginning at 4 pm. Fri, Nov 21 Latte da will host a Sip and Paint event. $45 includes a glass of wine and all the materials necessary to create your own take
Niche Wine Bar has some great holiday events coming up including their annual Port tasting on Christmas eve
-home masterpiece in a bright and cheery space.
Niche Wine Bar – Keep some dates open. This cozy wine bar designed for wine enthusiasts is hosting their annual Beaujolais release party on Sat, Nov 29, bubble sampling on Mon, Dec 8 and their annual Port tasting on Christmas Eve from 4-8 pm. Features: 30+ pours available six days a week and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main – Just celebrated their one year anniversary a couple weeks ago. Time flies! Excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 4:30-6 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list, 50% off bottles under $40 on Tuesdays. Next 4-course Prime Rib dinner will be Sun, Dec 14. Detailed menu and featured winery TBA. Reservations required.
North Vancouver
Farrar’s Bistro – Stop into this Felida neighborhood restaurant and see how Farrar’s knocks the sox off its guests with unique appetizers like gorgonzola cheesecake and comfort food like smoked bbq meatloaf. Why not complete the cozy blanket feel with a bold sauvignon blanc or big fat zinfandel?
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center. How could sipping a warming glass of wine at a cozy fireside table with soft piano music playing in the background not sound good this weekend? Come find your own spot under the massive Northwest logs and enjoy ‘Hudson’s Hour’ from 4-6 pm. You could do a lot worse than a place boasting Maryhill Winery as their house wine.
Village Vineyard – Sat, Nov 15-Hosting live music by a solo guitarist from 2-5 pm. Check out my recent detailed post about this gorgeous destination winery. Normal tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Sat, Nov 15-Confluence is celebrating their 6th anniversary from 12-5pm with live music, food pairings, barrel tasting and wine specials. They’ll also be releasing their 2012 Syrah for the first time to wine club members. This Syrah starts with smoke and finishes with beautiful chocolate notes- a gorgeous evolution from beginning to end. Sat, Nov 22 – Local favorite, Matt Brown, is back from Nashville and playing from 2-5 pm. Confluence will be closed during the Thanksgiving Weekend Clark County wine tour so come grab some of your favorites beforehand.
Tasting room hours Sat-Sun noon-5 pm.
Koi Pond Cellars – Sat, Nov 15 from 5-7 pm live music by Adrian Martin. Mural and artwork by resident artist, Micah Boylan, graces the walls. Happy hour Wed-Fri from 4-7 pm. Live music often scheduled on Saturday nights from 5-7 pm. Open Wed-Sun.
Gougér Cellars – Thur, Nov 20 from 6-9 pm Gary will be pouring his wines at the Ridgefield Shorty’s Nursery location Ladies Night event. Fri, Nov 21 – A Sharon’s Paint & Pour event beginning at 6 pm. All the supplies needed plus your first glass of wine is included in the $40 fee. Special pricing for couples. Wed-Sun enjoy Gary’s award-winning wine line up with some non-alcoholic ice creams or food options that go beyond small bites. Live music some weekends.
Bethany Vineyards – Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. Walt’s currently experimenting successfully with a Russian grape- golubok-that’s growing well in our area.
Three Brothers Vineyard – Recently released two new wines – their 2011 Sangiovese Reserve would be an excellent choice to warm up during our bitter cold snap. Come out to take advantage of their Fall wine sale still in process. Tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Thurs, Dec 4 – and all other Thur through the month of December, Pomeroy will be open 5-9 pm with $4.75 glass pours, dinner-for-purchase and a game night. Sat, Dec 6 – 3:30-6 pm will be a do-it-yourself holiday gift and decoration party. The $50 fee will include all supplies and wine. Open Sat & Sun each weekend. Wed, Dec 31 – No plans for New Year’s Eve? The first 40 people to sign up will be spending it with Dan & Destiny beginning at 6 pm. $100 includes dinner for two, a bottle of Pomeroy Cellars wine and live music.
Moulton Falls Winery – Fri, Nov 14 – $5 on select glasses of wine from 4-9 pm, dinner from 5-8:30 pm and entertainment from 6-9 pm by Bobby Greer who boasts a musical relationship with Elvis among others. Sat, Nov 15 – From 1-5 pm, come meet local author, Spike Walker, who’s writings inspired the TV show “The Deadliest Catch” and the movie “The Guardian.” Live musical performance from 6-9 pm by Grammy award-guitarist, Doug Smith, and his wife, Judy Koch-Smith. With cooler days upon us, Moulton Falls has switched out their Sunday special from Sangria to glühwein (German-inspired hot spiced wine). Come enjoy a cup from noon-6 pm.
Heisen House Vineyards introduced two new wines at their Oct Crush Festival. If you weren’t there, check out their 2012 Sangiovese and 2012 Syrah this weekend. Open Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Olequa Cellars – Next wine tasting will be Fri, Nov 28-Sun, Nov 30 for the Thanksgiving weekend Clark County wine frenzy along with several other area wineries. Wines by the bottle or by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Wed, Dec 3 – Hosting Ladies Night from 6-9 pm complete with locally-sourced shopping. Check out their newly released Chocolate Syrah Port, sipping chocolate and vin chaud during this frigid spell. The tasting room is toasty thanks to the full-on move of their wood-fired pizza oven. Wednesday is 2 wood-fired pizzas for $15 and, beginning Nov 5 through the end of the year, a portion of Wednesday proceeds will go to a local charity. Thursday brings Thirsty Thursday from 4:3-6:30 pm with special prices on wines, beer and food and Sunday they do it again from noon-3 pm. Something’s always going on at the Grape. Open Wed-Sun.
Emanar Cellars – Sat, Nov 15 – Stop by from 6-8 pm to hear the classical crossover guitarist, David Rogers, who’s been written up in The Washington Post and New York Times. This weekend’s featured local wine is Bethany Vineyard’s 2010 Petit Syrah. Pair their Spanish wines with Spanish tapas Thur-Sat from 4-9 pm.
Pasta GiGi’s – Kathy is always cooking up a weekend special to go with her ever-expanding wine list and this weekend she’s taken my favorite dish, Crespelle, and put an anticipated fall twist on it; “butternut squash with a sage cream sauce, sautéed kale, wild mushrooms, and asparagus.” Amazing, fresh Italian food with a passionate wine staff like Lindsey and Kathryn– a pairing made in Heaven.
The little white house occupied by C’est La Vie Crêperie is just cozy, cozy, cozy
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Wine-O Wednesday is marked by $1 off mimosas, spritzers and wines by the glass. Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as French toast with mixed berry compote and chantilly creme. Très bon. Open Tue-Sat 8 am-3 pm.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia has received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the last five years. Aside from the dizzying array of wines by the bottle, guests can enjoy ½ off bottles of wines on Wednesdays and tastes or glasses of wine from a selection of over 100 daily. Pair that with their Tightwad Tuesday pasta buffet or live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Roots Restaurant & Bar– My purée of cauliflower soup with spaghetti sauce and chanterelle mushroom entrée last weekend was over the moon. An extensive list of quality wines by the glass or bottle are showcased. From Cakebread to Domaine Drouhin to L’Ecole, you’d be hard-pressed to choose wrong and from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri and 9-11 pm Fri-Sat, pair your selection with locally-inspired happy hour bites.
English Estate Winery – Fri, Nov 14 – Be entertained by the sounds of John Jamieson, and a spaghetti dinner with dessert. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. Wed, Nov 19 beginning at 6:30 pm Rebecca’s Collections will offer a Wine About Painting event. “$40 includes a glass of wine, appetizers and all the tools you need.” Thur, Nov 20 – English Estate will be pouring their wines at the Mill Plain Shorty’s Nursery for their annual Holiday Ladies Night event from 6-9 pm. The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm with $5 glasses of wine to start your week off right.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Come out this Sunday to see what’s up Dennis’s sleeves for his weekly wine flight pouring beginning at 4 pm. Live music every Fri and Sat night beginning at 8 pm to accompany classic cocktails, a thoughtful wine list and small bites.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge – Wed, Nov 19 presenting wines by Walla Walla’s own Basel Cellars paired with light appetizers from 6-8 pm. $40 per person. Reservations required.
The Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited and, quite frankly, not great wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town – and who couldn’t use a dose of the islands in this frigid weather – this is the place to be (they have indoor seating). Their food menu is tantalizing and their wait staff is genuine.
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East Fork Cellars took up residence inside the circa 1867 historic Slocum House in August 2013. Gallery 360 officially joins them this Friday, Nov 7th.
Weekend highlights:
Whole Foods Market on Mill Plain – Hosting a “Taste of Thanksgiving” TONIGHT from 5-8 pm. For $5 participants can sample this complete holiday dinner and those 21 & over will enjoy it paired with carefully-selected wines. All proceeds go to the Vancouver-based charitable organization, Share.
Downtown Vancouver First Friday Art Walk – Along with the many merchants staying open later hours in the Arts District, tonight is the long-anticipated Grand Opening of Gallery 360 inside East Fork Cellars’ Slocum House. Live music and wine will be available. Burnt Bridge Cellars always opens its doors on First Friday from 4-8 pm, as well, with wine tasting and small bites by Class Cooking and Cellar 55 Tasting Room will feature local artists, dinner for purchase by Jo Foody from 5-9 pm and live bluegrass and Americana music from 6:30-8:30 pm. Grab an umbrella and support local artists.
Upcoming events:
Bader Beer & Wine Supply on Grand Blvd is hosting three wine tasting evenings Sat, Nov 22, Nov 29 and Dec 6 beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $20 each and include a tasting of all five 2014-15 limited edition wine kits paired with small bites. Aspiring wine makers should plan to attend one of these fun and educational events. Limited to 32 people each night so purchase your ticket soon.
The Northwest Food & Wine Festival at Doubletree Lloyd Center – It’s like a candy store for food and wine lovers on Sat, Nov 15 from 4-8 pm. $75 includes samplings from a selection of over 600 wines and a smorgasbord of gourmet nibbles. Beer and spirits available, as well.
Stoller Family Estate in Dayton OR is opening up their Fermentation Room to volunteers and supporters of Meals on Wheels Sun, Nov 16 from 1-4 pm. Attendees will be treated to a special wine and food tasting wherein Stoller will donate 20% of the proceeds for sold holiday gift baskets to Meals on Wheels. Their sustainable tasting room alone is reason enough to make the drive. Experiencing their award-winning wines and supporting the mission of Meals on Wheels make it a win-win for everyone. Must RSVP by Nov 14 to Meagan at (503) 953-8130.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available. Current offerings include Charles Smith’s earthy Boom Boom Syrah, AniChe Cellars’ Barbariccia which is a sangiovese blend, Locati Cellars’ Barbera and the ever-sassy Naked Winery’s Penetration Cabernet Sauvignon and Foreplay Chardonnay.
Burnt Bridge Cellars – Their doors will be open this Friday for the First Friday Art Walk from 4-8 pm with wine tasting and small bites provided by Class Cooking. Tasting their award-winning wines Sat-Sun noon-5 pm. Burnt Bridge wines can also be found on wine lists around town including Willem’s on Main, Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar and Roots Restaurant & Bar.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Featuring local artists, dinner for purchase by Jo Foody from 5-9 pm and live bluegrass and Americana music from 6:30-8:30 pm for First Friday Art Walk tomorrow night. Wine & Canvas will be hosting one of their ever-popular painting parties on Mon, Nov 10. Sun, Nov 16 from 3-6 pm, Grape-ful Women will be hosting their Third Annual Wine and Toys event. $15 per ticket includes wine, food and an entry to win a Christmas tree. Attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped gift or gift card for a child. This event supports Family Solutions. RSVP by November 12th. Now open at noon Wed-Sun.
Charlie’s Bistro – Blues by Sidestreet Reny will be featured this Friday from 7-10 pm. Charlie’s has a great deal for wine lovers every Monday-50% off all bottles of wine $50 and under. Plus Saturday is always Flight Night from 4-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars – Re-opening this Friday in time for the First Friday Art Walk and unveiling their new partnership with Gallery 360. See top of post for details.
Evergreen Wine Cellar typically hosts a Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person but has several special tasting scheduled for the month of November. Fri, Nov 7 tasting Jeff Runquist wines at the newly-opened We Plan It located near Beaches on the Columbia River. Wed, Nov 12 Port tastings at Cellar 55 Tasting Room. Fri, Nov 21 back at Evergreen Wine Cellar’s own location for a line up of wines specially-chosen for the Thanksgiving table.
The Grant House – Part of the Vancouver First Friday Art Walk, The Grant House will be featuring live music this Friday night along with their consistently impressive customer service and terrific dinner menu showcasing fresh, local ingredients. Future happenings include their Autumn wine dinner on Fri, Nov 7 which will feature Dobbes Family Estates wine paired with harvest favorites like butternut squash and short ribs. Sharon’s Paint ‘n Pour event upstairs on Nov 11 at 5:30 pm is sold out. Reserve your space sooner than later for their annual Sugar Plum Tea on Sat, Dec 6 from 1-3 pm. $30 for adults, $15 for 12 and under. Ballerinas from the Columbia Dance Production of The Nutcracker will be a special treat.
La Bottega– Terrific casual Italian dining with a wine list to complement each flavor profile. Tuesday night wines under $50 are 50% off and wines over $50 are discounted $25. Excellent way to enjoy some premium wines with their locally-focused menu. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti. Featuring Portuguese wines the entire month of November. Mark your calendar for their Sun, Dec 7 Wine Dinner pairing foods with Small Vineyards wine-an importer specializing in small Mediterranean wines.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Their monthly wine tasting event (Thurs, Nov 20) will feature Thanksgiving dinner wine pairing suggestions beginning at 4 pm. Fri, Nov 21 Latte da will host a Sip and Paint event. $45 includes a glass of wine and all the materials necessary to create your own take-home masterpiece in a bright and cheery space.
Niche Wine Bar – Keep some dates open. This cozy wine bar designed for wine enthusiasts is hosting their annual Beaujolais release party on Sat, Nov 29, bubble sampling on Mon, Dec 8 and their annual Port tasting on Christmas Eve from 4-8 pm. Features: 30+ pours available six days a week and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main – Just celebrated their one year anniversary last week. Time flies! Excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 4:30-6 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list, 50% off bottles under $40 on Tuesdays. Sun, Nov 9 – Featuring Bethany Vineyard wines paired with their 4-course Prime Rib dinner which is quickly becoming a must ritual.
North Vancouver
Farrar’s Bistro – Stop into this Felida neighborhood restaurant and see how Farrar’s knocks the sox off its guests with unique appetizers like salmon won tons and gorgonzola cheesecake and comfort food like today’s taco salad and turkey Dijon soup. Why not complete the cozy blanket feel with a big fat Zinfandel or bold Sauvignon Blanc?
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center. How could sipping a warming glass of wine at a cozy fireside table with soft piano music playing in the background not sound good this weekend? Come find your own spot under the massive Northwest logs and enjoy ‘Hudson’s Hour’ from 4-6 pm. You could do a lot worse than a place boasting Maryhill Winery as their house wine.
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Sat, Nov 15 from noon-5 pm, Confluence will celebrate their 6th anniversary with live music, food and wine. Come on out and thank them for choosing Ridgefield to produce consistently premium wines in. Tasting room hours Sat-Sun noon-5 pm.
White dog Wednesday as Challenge and Baby Girl enjoy the inviting tasting room of Koi Pond Cellars in Ridgefield
Koi Pond Cellars – I met Sara and some of her friendly fam last night when my husband and I stopped by for their happily-priced Geisha Red . A new mural by esident artist, Micah Boylan, was gracing a wall. Happy hour Wed-Fri from 4-7 pm. Live music often scheduled on Saturday nights from 5-7 pm. Open Wed-Sun.
Gougér Cellars – Thur, Nov 20 from 6-9 pm Gary will be pouring his wines at the Ridgefield Shorty’s Nursery location Ladies Night event. Plenty of indoor seating to enjoy his award-winning wine line up with some non-alcoholic ice creams or food options that go beyond small bites. Live music some weekends. Open Wed-Sun.
Bethany Vineyards – Walt’s wines being featured this Sun, Nov 9th with the four-course Prime Rib dinner at Willem’s on Main. Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. Walt’s first vintage was 2002 and recent tastes have proven that his wines are aging beautifully. Currently experimenting successfully with a Russian grape that’s growing well in our area.
Three Brothers Vineyard – Recently released two new wines – their 2011 Sangiovese Reserve would be an excellent choice to warm up with this rainy fall weekend. Tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Save the date: Sat, Dec 6 from 3:30-6 pm a do-it-yourself holiday gift and decoration party. The $50 fee will include all supplies and wine. Open Sat & Sun each weekend.
Moulton Falls Winery – Novemberfest this Sat, Nov 8 beginning at 11 am in conjunction with the last Wine Train of the year. All aboard the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad at noon and back to the winery in time to enjoy music by Five Drunk Cowboys, blues guitarist, Terry Robb, and a lasagna dinner. Veterans receive 20% off train tickets. Fri, Nov 7 Tom May plays from 6-9 pm. With cooler days upon us, Moulton Falls has switched out their Sunday special from Sangria to glühwein (German-inspired hot spiced wine). Come enjoy a cup from noon-6 pm.
Heisen House Vineyards introduced two new wines at their Oct 4 Crush Festival. If you weren’t there, check out their 2012 Sangiovese and 2012 Syrah this weekend. Open Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
The cozy tasting room of Olequa Cellars in Battle Ground
Olequa Cellars – Tastes every other Saturday. Next wine tasting day is this Saturday, Nov 8 from noon to 5 pm. Brian will be open Fri, Nov 28-Sun, Nov 30 for the Thanksgiving weekend wine frenzy along with several other area wineries. Wines by the bottle or by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Check out their newly released Chocolate Syrah Port, sipping chocolate and vin chaud in time for the wet-to-the-bones weather. Their recent renovation project, with a full-on move of their wood-fired pizza oven, is complete. Wednesday is 2 wood-fired pizzas for $15 and, beginning Nov 5 through the end of the year, a portion of Wednesday proceeds will go to a local charity. Thursday brings Thirsty Thursday from 4:3-6:30 pm with special prices on wines, beer and food and Sunday they do it again from noon-3 pm. Save a space on your calendar for Wed, Dec 3 from 6-9 pm as they host Ladies Night complete with locally-sourced shopping. Something’s always going on at the Grape. Open Wed-Sun.
Emanar Cellars – Michael McCabe performing live again this Friday from 6-8 pm. Enjoy some of his gypsy jazz with a Spanish version of hot spiced wine. Pouring Confluence Vineyard’s 2012 Equilibrium by the glass this weekend along with their large selection of Spanish wines and tapas. Sat, Nov 15 from 6-8 pm stop by to hear the classical crossover guitarist, David Rogers, who’s been written up in The Washington Post and New York Times. Open Thu-Sat.
Pasta GiGi’s signature dish, Crespelle, and my favorite!
Pasta GiGi’s – Kathy is always cooking up a weekend special to go with her ever-expanding wine list. Amazing, fresh Italian food with a passionate wine staff like Lindsey and Kathryn– a pairing made in Heaven.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Wine-O Wednesday is marked by $1 off mimosas, spritzers and wines by the glass. Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as French toast with mixed berry compote and chantilly creme. Très bon. Open Tue-Sat 8 am-3 pm.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia has received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the last five years. Aside from the dizzying array of wines by the bottle, guests can enjoy ½ off bottles of wines on Wednesdays and tastes or glasses of wine from a selection of over 100 daily. Pair that with their Tightwad Tuesday pasta buffet or live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Roots Restaurant & Bar-Although not wine-based, their Roasted Pumpkin Hot Buttered Rum looks amazing. An extensive list of quality wines by the glass or bottle. From Cakebread to Domaine Drouhin to L’Ecole, you’d be hard-pressed to choose wrong and from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri and 9-11 pm Fri-Sat, pair your selection with locally-inspired happy hour bites.
English Estate Winery – Be entertained this Friday night by the sounds of vocalist, Marianne Flemming, and a meaty hangar steak salad with dessert. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. Wed, Nov 19 beginning at 6:30 pm Rebecca’s Collections will offer a Wine About Painting event. “$40 includes a glass of wine, appetizers and all the tools you need.” The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm with $5 glasses of wine to start your week off right.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Dennis presided over the tasting of three ‘Righteous Rhones’ for last Sunday’s wine flight pouring. Come out this Sunday to see what’s in his bag of tricks beginning at 4 pm. Live music every Fri and Sat night beginning at 8 pm to accompany classic cocktails, a thoughtful wine list and small bites.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge serves up more than bubbly in historic Camas with a few specials featured every Friday night. Sparkling, wines and beers also available. Will be participating in Camas First Friday on Nov 7, as always.
The Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited and, quite frankly, not great wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town – and who couldn’t use a dose of the islands on a dreary fall day – this is the place to be (they have indoor seating). Their food menu is tantalizing and their wait staff is genuine.
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Evergreen Wine Cellar is hosting a few special tastings for the month of November. TONIGHT from 4-7:30 pm will be a random tasting. Typically five wines for $5. Fri, Nov 7 tasting Jeff Runquist wines at the newly-opened We Plan It located near Beaches on the Columbia River. Wed, Nov 12 Port tastings at Cellar 55 Tasting Room. Fri, Nov 21 back at Evergreen Wine Cellar’s own location for a line up of wines specially-chosen for the Thanksgiving table.
Village Vineyard – Hosting a Halloween open house this Sat, Nov 1 from noon-7 pm. Adults in costume receive a free tasting. Children welcome. There’ll be snacks and live music to compliment this gorgeous destination winery. Normal tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – The much-anticipated costume party is quickly approaching. Come enjoy the adult fun this Fri, Oct 31 from 6-10 pm. Pomeroy will be giving out Trick or Treat coupons for discounts on wine and retail items. Costumes will be judged between 8-9 pm and you must be present to win. Come join in this 21 and over celebration. Worth it just to see what the always stylish, Destiny Fuller, will be sporting.
Moulton Falls Winery – Just up the road from Pomeroy, Moulton will be hosting its own Halloween party – costumes optional, clothing mandatory – from 4-9 pm. Live music, hot spiced wine, cozy fire and fall nibbles to accompany it all. Pray for a rainy, blustery night because only then will Joe be offering his famous chili-mac with cheese and onion as a dinner option along with their ever-present wood fired pizzas.
Upcoming events:
Bader Beer & Wine Supply on Grand Blvd is hosting three wine tasting evenings Sat, Nov 22, Nov 29 and Dec 6 beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $20 each and include a tasting of all five 2014-15 limited edition wine kits paired with small bites. Aspiring wine makers should plan to attend one of these fun and educational events. Limited to 32 people each night so purchase your ticket soon.
Stoller Family Estate in Dayton OR is opening up their Fermentation Room to volunteers and supporters of Meals on Wheels Sun, Nov 16 from 1-4 pm. Attendees will be treated to a special wine and food tasting wherein Stoller will donate 20% of the proceeds for sold holiday gift baskets to Meals on Wheels. Their sustainable tasting room alone is reason enough to make the drive. Experiencing their award-winning wines and supporting the mission of Meals on Wheels make it a win-win for everyone. Must RSVP by Nov 14 to Meagan at (503) 953-8130.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available. Current offerings include Charles Smith’s earthy Boom Boom Syrah, AniChe Cellars’ Barbariccia which is a sangiovese blend, Locati Cellars’ Barbera and the ever-sassy Naked Winery’s Penetration Cabernet Sauvignon and Foreplay Chardonnay.
Burnt Bridge Cellars – Tasting their award-winning wines Sat-Sun noon-5 pm. Burnt Bridge wines can also be found on wine lists around town including Willem’s on Main, Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar and Roots Restaurant & Bar.
Charlie’s Bistro – Solo guitarist, Michael Baker, accompanies all that goes bump in the night this Friday from 7-10 pm. Charlie’s has a great deal for wine lovers every Monday-50% off all bottles of wine $50 and under. Plus Saturday is always Flight Night from 4-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars – The word is that East Fork will re-open in time for the First Friday Art Walk Nov 7, unveiling their new partnership with Gallery 360. Stay tuned for details.
Evergreen Wine Cellar typically hosts a Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person but has several special tasting scheduled for the month of November. See top of this post for details.
The Grant House has a wonderful happy hour and terrific dinner menu showcasing fresh, local ingredients. They recently added a new cider to their offerings. Excellent fall location to check that out. Future happenings include their Autumn wine dinner on Nov 7 which will feature Dobbes Family Estates wine paired with harvest favorites like butternut squash and short ribs as well as a Sharon’s Paint ‘n Pour event upstairs on Nov 11 at 5:30 pm.
La Bottega– Terrific casual Italian dining with a wine list to complement each flavor profile. Tuesday night wines under $50 are 50% off and wines over $50 are discounted $25. Excellent way to enjoy some premium wines with their locally-focused menu. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti. Mark your calendar for their Sun, Dec 7 Wine Dinner pairing foods with Small Vineyards wine-an importer specializing in small Mediterranean wines.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Thurs, Oct 30 is their monthly wine tasting event beginning at 4 pm. Also hosting a children’s Halloween party this Saturday from 2-4 pm. Come see for yourself how much this place has to offer Clark County.
Niche Wine Bar – Keep some dates open. This cozy wine bar designed for wine enthusiasts is hosting their annual Beaujolais release party on Sat, Nov 29, bubble sampling on Mon, Dec 8 and their annual Port tasting on Christmas Eve from 4-8 pm. Features: 30+ pours available six days a week and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main – Just celebrated their one year anniversary yesterday. Time flies! Excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 4:30-6:30 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list, 50% off bottles under $40 on Tuesdays.
North Vancouver
Farrar’s Bistro – Hosting a Bingo night this Sunday beginning at 5:30 pm. If that sounds interesting, stop into this Felida neighborhood restaurant and see how Farrar’s knocks the sox off its guests with unique appetizers like salmon won tons and gorgonzola cheesecake and soul food like today’s Ham & Cheddar Melt sandwich or Prime Rib dinner. Why not pair some comfort with a big fat Zinfandel or bold Sauvignon Blanc?
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center. How could sipping a warming glass of wine at a cozy fireside table with soft piano music playing in the background not sound good this weekend? Come find your own spot under the massive Northwest logs and enjoy ‘Hudson’s Hour’ from 4-6 pm. You could do a lot worse than a place boasting Maryhill Winery as their house wine.
Village Vineyard hosting a Halloween open house this Sat, Nov 1
Village Vineyard – Hosting a Halloween open house this Sat, Nov 1 from noon-7 pm. Adults in costume receive a free tasting. Children welcome. There’ll be snacks and live music to compliment this gorgeous destination winery. Normal tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Call now to purchase tickets for their Winemaker’s Dinner Sun, Nov 2 at 5 pm. Chef Peter Dougherty of La Bottega will be preparing a five-course menu complete with antipasto, braised beef shank and pumpkin crème brûlée to accompany Confluence’s French oak-aged wines. Save Nov 22 & 23 to help Confluence celebrate their 6th anniversary. Tasting room hours Sat-Sun noon-5 pm.
Koi Pond Cellars – Drawing the winner of an art and wine raffle this Fri, Oct 31. Each $5 ticket gets you closer to a bottle of Koi Pond’s Cabernet Sauvignon and a painting by resident artist, Micah Boylan. Happy hour Wed-Fri from 4-7 pm. Live music is typically scheduled on Saturday nights from 5-7 pm. Open Wed-Sun.
Gougér Cellars – Plenty of indoor seating to enjoy his award-winning wine line up with some non-alcoholic ice creams or food options that go beyond small bites. Live music some weekends. Open Wed-Sun.
Bethany Vineyards – Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. Walt’s first vintage was 2002 and recent tastes have proven that his wines are aging beautifully. Currently experimenting successfully with a Russian grape that’s growing well in our area.
Three Brothers Vineyard – Released two new wines last weekend. Their 2011 Sangiovese Reserve would be an excellent choice to warm up with this rainy fall weekend. Tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – The much-anticipated costume party is quickly approaching. Come enjoy the adult fun this Fri, Oct 31 from 6-10 pm. Pomeroy will be giving out Trick or Treat coupons for discounts on wine and retail items. Costumes will be judged between 8-9 pm and you must be present to win. Come join in this 21 and over celebration. Worth it just to see what the always stylish, Destiny Fuller, will be sporting. Save the date: Saturday evening, Dec 6, do-it-yourself holiday gift and decoration party, fee will include all supplies and wine. More info TBA.
Moulton Falls Winery – Just up the road from Pomeroy, Moulton will be hosting its own Halloween party – costumes optional, clothing mandatory – from 4-9 pm. Live music, hot spiced wine, cozy fire and fall nibbles to accompany it all. Pray for a rainy, blustery night because only then will Joe be offering his famous chili-mac with cheese and onion as a dinner option along with their ever-present wood fired pizzas. Fall pasta dinner accompanies lives Celtic music this Sat, Nov 1. Novemberfest coming Sat, Nov 8 beginning at 11 am in conjunction with the last Wine Train of the year. All aboard the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad at noon and back to the winery in time to enjoy music by Five Drunk Cowboys, blues guitarist, Terry Robb, and a lasagna dinner. Veterans receive 20% off train tickets.
Heisen House Vineyards introduced two new wines at their Oct 4 Crush Festival. If you weren’t there, check out 2012 Sangiovese and 2012 Syrah this weekend. Open Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Olequa Cellars – Tastes every other Saturday. Next wine tasting day should be Saturday, Nov 8 from noon to 5 pm. Brian’s receptive to accommodating interested wine lovers with some advanced notice so give him a call at (360) 666-8012. Wines by the bottle or by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Look for their new release of Chocolate Syrah Port, sipping chocolate and vin chaud to be making an appearance in time for the wet-to-the-bones weather. Literally ‘hot wine’ in French, vin chaud is made with red wine, a selection of fall spices and sometimes a shot of liquor. Interesting to see Rusty’s version. Check out their recent renovation project, complete with a full-on move of their wood-fired pizza oven. Wednesday is 2 wood-fired pizzas for $15 ,Thursday brings Thirsty Thursday from 4:3-6:30 pm with special prices on wines, beer and food and Sunday they do it again from noon-3 pm. Something’s always going on at the Grape. Open Wed-Sun.
Emanar Cellars – Their one year anniver-sherry was a success but they’re not tired yet. Ramping up for a laid back Halloween celebrating this Fri with their Spanish wines and tapas featuring Koi Pond Cellars’ Geisha red as their local wine of the week. This Saturday come by from 3-6 pm for a Noonday Collection trunk show showcasing the wares of female artisans in developing countries.
Pasta GiGi’s – Kathy is always cooking up a weekend special to go with her ever-expanding wine list. Amazing, fresh Italian food with a passionate wine staff like Lindsey and Kathryn– a pairing made in Heaven.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Wine-O Wednesday is marked by $1 off mimosas, spritzers and wines by the glass. Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as French toast with mixed berry compote and chantilly creme. Très bon. Open Tue-Sat 8 am-3 pm.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia has received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the last five years. Aside from the dizzying array of wines by the bottle, guests can enjoy ½ off bottles of wines on Wednesdays and tastes or glasses of wine from a selection of over 100 daily. Pair that with their Tightwad Tuesday pasta buffet or live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Roots Restaurant & Bar-An extensive list of quality wines by the glass or bottle. From Cakebread to Domaine Drouhin to L’Ecole, you’d be hard-pressed to choose wrong and from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri and 9-11 pm Fri-Sat, pair your selection with locally-inspired happy hour bites.
English Estate Winery – ‘Ghoulish Times & Blood Red Wine’ is the theme this Friday night. Dinner is chicken pumpkin curry and there will be a costume contest and live music to lift the spirits (pardon the pun). Music and food begin at 6 p.m. The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm with $5 glasses of wine to start your week off right. Consider joining the Nov 19 Wine About Painting event at 6:30 pm.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Getting ready for a Halloween-themed Friday night. Live music beginning at 8 pm this Fri and Sat. Sunday wine flight pouring begins at 4 pm. Last Sunday was a Tuscan flight. Stop in this Sunday to see what Dennis scares up at this classic cocktail lounge.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge serves up more than bubbly in historic Camas with a few specials featured every Friday night. Sparkling, wines and beers also available. Will be participating in Camas First Friday on Nov 7, as always.
The Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited and, quite frankly, not great wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town – and who couldn’t use a dose of the islands in the fall – this is the place to be (they have indoor seating). Their food menu is tantalizing and their wait staff is genuine.
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Cellar 55 Tasting Room is ready to welcome guests to join in their one year anniversary this Sat, Oct 18
Weekend highlights:
Cellar 55’s one year anniversary – Known for years as a convenient and affordable place to store vino for the casual wine enthusiast up to avid collectors, Michelle Brinning partnered with Trish Nolan last fall to expand into a full-fledged tasting room and the ladies are celebrating their one year anniversary this Sat, Oct 18 from 6-9 pm. Come join in the festivities and taste wines from four Eastern Washington wineries known for their hand-crafted wines using grapes sourced from Washington
Drink This! Vancouver is hosting an event this Sat, Oct 18 from 4-9 pm with stops at Burnt Bridge Cellars, Cellar 55 Tasting Room, Charlie’s Bistro and Niche Wine Bar among the 15 downtown businesses participating. Pick up a map of the route at any participating location and support local.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Say prost at their combined 8 year anniversary and Oktoberfest celebration from 4-10 pm this Sat, Oct 18. German-inspired food, featuring their new Barrel Roll Blonde and Tin Roof Cider. Those dressed in German attire will receive a discount on a bottle of wine.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available.
Charlie’s Bistro – Solo guitarist, Colin Ranney, accompanies fine wines and a satisfying dinner menu Friday night from 7:30-9:30 pm. Along with their regular Saturday Flight Night from 4-10 pm, Charlie’s is one of the stops on Oct 18thDrink This! Vancouver featuring Double V Distillery.
East Fork Cellars should’ve reopened Fri, Oct 3rd after their September-long remodeling project but I don’t have confirmation on that. Enjoy tastings on Fri, Sat and Sun beginning at 11 am.
Cozy interior seating at Evergreen Wine Cellar surrounded by fine wines from around the world and old piano covers-a nod to when the space used to be a piano store
Evergreen Wine Cellar hosts a great Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person. Tomorrow Pam is sure to be featuring another great line up. Remember Valley of the Moon Zinfandel, which typically sells for $25, is on sale this month for $19.99/bottle. Evergreen has a neighborhood feel with a friendly cast of regulars whose mission it is to make you one by nights’ end.
The Grant House has a wonderful happy hour and terrific dinner menu showcasing fresh, local ingredients. Future happenings include their Autumn wine dinner on Nov 7 which will feature Dobbes Family Estates wine paired with harvest favorites like butternut squash and short ribs as well as a Sharon’s Paint ‘n Pour event upstairs on Nov 11 at 5:30 pm.
La Bottega – Terrific casual Italian dining with a wine list to complement each flavor profile. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – This place doesn’t serve just terrific coffee. They have a well-rounded wine list and some very nice food options to go with them, as well. Keep Oct 30 open for their monthly wine tasting event beginning at 4 pm.
Niche Wine Bar – This place designed for oenophiles is one of the stops on this weekends’ Drink This! Vancouver event Sat, Oct 18 from 4-9 pm. Features: 30+ pours available six days a week and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main – Excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 4:30-6:30 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list, 50% off bottles under $40 on Tuesdays..
North Vancouver
Salmon wontons, red snapper fish tacos, and hummus platter at Farrar’s Bistro
Farrar’s Bistro – In the Felida neighborhood Farrar’s knocks the sox off its guests with unique appetizers like salmon won tons and gorgonzola cheesecake and soul food like tonight’s Prime Rib dinner. Why not stop in and pair some comfort with a big fat Zinfandel or bold Sauvignon Blanc?
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center, I am a sucker for how Hudson’s is able to create an intimate space under the massive Northwest logs that surround guests sitting by the fireplace enjoying piano music Tues-Sat and a warming glass of wine accompanied by something so quintessentially Northwest as crab cakes.
Village Vineyard – Tastings at this gorgeous destination winery are from noon-6 pm Sat and 11 am-5 pm Sun.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Hosting their Harvest in the Vineyard this Sat and Sun from noon-6 pm with music, food and some barrel tasting.
Beautiful artwork by Micah lines the walls of Koi Pond’s tasting room in downtown Ridgefield
Koi Pond Cellars has a too-good-to-be-true happy hour Wed-Fri from 4-7 pm. This Saturday guests can listen to live music from Adrian Matrtin from 5-7 pm.
Gougér Cellars – Gary recently completed a back deck for some lazy wine sipping. Don’t know if this weekend’s weather will cooperate with outdoor sipping but you can still pair your wine selection with one of his non-alcoholic ice creams like Muscat with toasted oak or Zinfandel chocolate chip. Wine AND ice cream tasting under one roof…it doesn’t get much better than that.
Bethany Vineyards – Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. For those fortunate enough to have been at WSU-Vancouver’s “The Promise of Washington Wines” last week, Walt gave an informative and entertaining presentation. I think he uncovered a natural talent for stand-up comedy.
Three Brothers Vineyard – You might still be able to get in on their Fall wine sale during this weekends’ tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Opening earlier the month of October to coordinate with Pumpkin Lane on the same property; 10 am-6 pm Sat, 11am-6 pm Sun. Newsflash: They’re also hosting an adult Halloween Party on Oct 31 from 6-10 pm. Worth it just to see what the always stylish, Destiny, will be sporting.
Moulton Falls Winery – Live music Fri and Sat 6-9 pm accompanies their award-winning wine, beautiful scenery and wood-fired pizza. Their Sangria Sunday specials might be winding down with the changing of the seasons so put a drive in the country on your weekend list and salud!
Heisen House Vineyards introduced two new wines at their recent Crush Festival. If you weren’t there, check out 2012 Sangiovese and 2012 Syrah this weekend.
Olequa Cellars – Next wine tasting day is Saturday, Oct 25 from noon to 5 p.m but Brian’s always willing to accommodate interested wine lovers with some advanced notice so give him a call at (360) 666-8012. Wines by the bottle or by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Check out their recent renovation project, complete with a full-on move of their wood-fired pizza oven, at their combined 8 year anniversary and Oktoberfest celebration this Sat, Oct 18 from 4-10 pm (See top of post).
Emanar Cellars in Battle Ground Village features a local winery each weekend along with their large selection of quality Spanish wines. New hours: Thu-Sat 4-9 pm. Mark your calendar for a Spanish Wine & Chocolate fundraiser on Oct 25 and their one year anniver-sherry celebration TBA.
Pasta GiGi’s – Kathy is always cooking up a weekend special to go with her ever-expanding wine list. Amazing, fresh Italian food with a knowledged wine staff – a pairing made in Heaven.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as plum galette or croissant French toast with peaches. Très bon.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia has received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the last five years. Aside from the dizzying array of wines by the bottle, guests can enjoy ½ off bottles of wines on Wednesdays and tastes or glasses of wine from a selection of over 100 daily. Pair that with their Tightwad Tuesday pasta buffet or live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Roots Restaurant & Bar-An extensive list of quality wines by the glass or bottle. From Cakebread to Domaine Drouhin to L’Ecole, you’d be hard-pressed to choose wrong and from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri and 9-11 pm Fri-Sat, pair your selection with locally-inspired happy hour bites.
English Estate Winery’s Friday night dinner is a tamale pie with music by Tanner Cundy. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Along with classic cocktails and live music on Fri & Sat, this classy spot has wine flights on Sundays beginning at 4 pm. Always interesting to see what Dennis will choose.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge serves up more than bubbly in historic Camas with a few specials featured every Friday night. Sparkling, wines and beers also available.
Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited and, quite frankly, not great wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town, this is the place to be (they have indoor seating). Their food menu is tantalizing, their wait staff is friendly and accommodating and they typically host live music on Friday nights. Check their Facebook page.
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A soft, silky, sassy Revelry Cabernet Sauvignon paired with an olive mélange bowl at the Birch Street Uptown Lounge in Camas
I love the classics – an era of jazz I’m too young to be born into, old movies, drinks that would make Sinatra sway. If you’re like that, Birch Street Uptown Lounge in Camas is your kind of place, too. The bartender, Dennis, would be easily recognized behind a mahogany bar 70 years in the past. His knowledge of his craft is staggering and he has a true gift for making people comfortable and providing white-linen service without being stiff. And their wine list? Yes, he’s made sure to give as much attention to that as his Negroni-making skills. My Revelry Cabernet Sauvignon was smooth, silky and a little sassy…kind of like Dennis.
Below is an extensive list of places to sip quality vino and some weekend goings-on in the Clark County area. Who says you have to cross the bridge to elevate a weekend? If you feel I missed a good spot, let me know.
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Paired with their ever-changing and always interesting wine selection, Cellar 55 is hosting Spanish & Flamenco guitar this Friday night from 6:30-8:30 pm.
Charlie’s Bistro – The other-era sounds of Boy and Bean accompany fine wines and a satisfying dinner menu tomorrow night from 7:30-9:30 pm. Their courtyard seating might still be an inviting spot for a few more days. A plus: dog friendly. As always, Saturday is Flight Night from 4-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars should’ve reopened Fri, Oct 3rd after their September-long remodeling project. Enjoy tastings on Fri, Sat and Sun beginning at 11 am.
Evergreen Wine Cellar hosts a great Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person. Tomorrow Pam is featuring Bateaux Cellars’ Pinot Gris, Cherry Pie Pinot Noir, Valley of the Moon Zinfandel which typically sells for $25 and is on sale this month for $19.99/bottle, a Moscato and Revelry Chardonnay. Evergreen has a neighborhood feel with a friendly cast of regulars whose mission it is to make you one by nights’ end.
The Grant House has a wonderful happy hour with a dog-friendly porch. Mark your calendar for their Autumn wine dinner which will feature Dobbes Family Estates wine paired with harvest favorites like butternut squash and short ribs.
La Bottega – Terrific casual Italian dining with a complimentary wine list. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – This place doesn’t serve just terrific coffee. They have a well-rounded wine list and some very nice food options to go with them, as well. Keep Oct 30 open for their monthly wine tasting event beginning at 4 pm.
Niche Wine Bar – What more could an oenophile want than a place with 30+ pours available and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work? Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main – Excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 4:30-6:30 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list, 50% off bottles under $40 on Tuesdays and this Sunday they’ll be hosting their first Prime Rib dinner showcasing wines from Bateaux Cellars.
North Vancouver
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center, I am a sucker for how Hudson’s is able to create an intimate space under the massive Northwest logs that surround guests sitting by the fireplace enjoying piano music Tues-Sat and a warming glass of wine accompanied by something so quintessentially Northwest as crab cakes.
Village Vineyard – Tastings at this gorgeous destination winery are from noon-6 pm Sat and 11 am-5 pm Sun.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery is tasting from noon-6 pm this Saturday and Sunday but keep Oct 18 or 19 available. From noon-6 pm they’ll host Harvest in the Vineyard with music, food and some barrel tasting.
Koi Pond Cellars, which opened on June 28, has a too-good-to-be-true wine happy hour Wed-Fri from 4-7 pm. This Saturday they’ll also be featuring live music by Erik Sutten from 5-7 pm.
Gougér Cellars – Gary just completed a back deck for some lazy wine sipping. Head on out, enjoy the view of the llamas and pair your wine selection with one of his non-alcoholic ice creams like Muscat with toasted oak or Zinfandel chocolate chip. Wine AND ice cream tasting under one roof…it doesn’t get much better than that.
Bethany Vineyards – Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri noon-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. For those fortunate enough to secure a ticket to WSU-Vancouver’s “The Promise of Washington Wines” presentation tomorrow, Walt will be one of two local speakers.
Three Brothers – Get in on their Fall wine sale and taste some award-winning wines Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Opening earlier the month of October to coordinate with Pumpkin Lane on the same property; 10 am-6 pm Sat, 11am-6 pm Sun. Newsflash: They’re also hosting an adult Halloween Party on Oct 31 from 6-10 pm. What a treat!
Moulton Falls Winery – Live music Fri and Sat 6-9 pm accompanies their award-winning wine, beautiful scenery and wood-fired pizza. Their Sangria Sunday specials might be winding down with the changing of the seasons so put a drive in the country on your weekend list and salud!
Heisen House Vineyards introduced two new wines last weekend at their Crush Festival. If you weren’t there, check out 2012 Sangiovese and 2012 Syrah this weekend.
Olequa Cellars – Next wine tasting day is this Saturday, Oct 11 from noon to 5 p.m. Brian’s excellent wine-making skills are worth a visit. Wines by the bottle or by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards is completing their tasting room renovations, complete with a full-on move of their wood-fired pizza oven that adds extra ambience to this already cozy wine bar.
Battle Ground Produce typically hosts a free Friday wine tasting from 4-7 pm. Check Facebook for details.
Emanar Cellars in Battle Ground Village is featuring Rezabek Vineyards’ 2012 Tempranillo this weekend. New hours: Thu-Sat 4-9 pm. Rezabek is a local winery not yet open. Come be the first to sip their liquid promises. Live music by Sun City Players this Sat 6-8 pm if Laura is feeling better. All wines available by the taste, glass or bottle. Linger over their tapas menu which includes olives, almonds, a trio of cheeses served with quince paste spread over bread (very traditional Spanish tapas), as well as a few classic meat selections.
Pasta GiGi’s – Kathy is always cooking up a weekend special to go with her ever-expanding wine list. Amazing, fresh Italian food with a knowledged wine staff – a pairing made in Heaven.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as plum galette or croissant French toast with peaches. Très bon.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia has received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the last five years. Aside from the dizzying array of wines by the bottle, guests can enjoy ½ off bottles of wines on Wednesdays and tastes or glasses of wine from a selection of over 100 daily. Pair that with live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Roots Restaurant & Bar-An extensive list of quality wines by the glass or bottle. From Cakebread to Domaine Drouhin to L’Ecole, you’d be hard-pressed to choose wrong and from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri and 9-11 pm Fri-Sat, pair your selection with locally-inspired happy hour bites.
English Estate Winery’s Friday night dinner is German brat kababs with music by Wade Hendrix. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. Well-mannered dogs on leashes welcome outside.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Along with classic cocktails and live music on Fri & Sat, this classy spot has wine flights on Sundays beginning at 4 pm. This Sunday Dennis is featuring food-friendly Italians.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge serves up more than bubbly in historic Camas with a few specials featured every Friday night (open Tues-Sat).
Puffin Café floats in the port in Washougal. They have a limited and, quite frankly, not great wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town, this is the place to be. Their food menu is inspired, their wait staff is friendly and accommodating and they typically host live music on Friday nights. Check their Facebook page.
What better way to celebrate the last full weekend of Summer than with some local wine tasting. I’ll be heading up the road to Pomeroy Cellars for their Grand Opening from noon-8 pm September 20th. There’ll be complimentary chocolate pairings, a Bocce ball tournament, live music and one complimentary flight tasting per adult.
Crush is upon vineyards all over the U.S. and our area is no different. Look for Crush events at our local wineries over the next few weekends.
Downtown
Burnt Bridge Cellars – Aside from their regularly scheduled weekly wine tasting hours, Burnt Bridge is hosting a one hour Wine Education class from 3-4 pm on Sun, Sep 21.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Paired with their ever-changing and always interesting wine selection, Cellar 55 is hosting the Americana and classic rock sounds of local guitarist, Wade Hendrix, from 6:30-8:30 pm tonight.
Charlie’s Bistro – Colin Ranney, local guitarist and vocalist, performs from 7-10 pm tonight. Inviting courtyard seating and a thoughtful wine list make this a terrific place to be the last weekend of summer. A plus: dog friendly. As always, Saturday is Flight Night from 4-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars – is closed the month of September for a remodel. Look for them to reopen on Friday, October 3rd.
Evergreen Wine Cellar typically hosts a great Friday night tasting from 5:30-8 pm for $5 per person. It has a neighborhood feel with a friendly cast of regulars who’s mission it is to make you one by nights’ end.
Niche Wine Bar – What more could an oenophile want than a place with 30+ pours available and a staff who knows their wine all in a relaxed atmosphere with walls decorated in local artists’ work? Live music every Saturday night? Call for details.
North Vancouver
Village Vineyard – Tastings at this gorgeous destination winery are from noon-6 pm Sat and 11 am-5 pm Sun.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery is tasting their 2012 bold reds-Tempranillo and Zinfandel-from noon-6 pm this Saturday and Sunday.
Koi Pond Cellars, which opened on June 28, is having a too-good-to-be-true deal. Buy 6 bottles of their 2012 Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon and receive 6 bottles of their non-vintage Geisha for free. Located in the quaint downtown area of Ridgefield. Open daily but check them out this Saturday and stop by Ridgefield’s Farmers Market while you’re there.
Gougér Cellars – Rolling out some new ice cream flavors…all made non-alcoholic with the juice of grapes such as Muscat with toasted oak, Muscat with toasted coconut and Zinfandel chocolate chips. Wine AND ice cream tasting under one roof…it doesn’t get much better than that.
Bethany Vineyards – Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri noon-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Grand Opening this Saturday from noon-8 pm. Lots going on!
Moulton Falls Winery – Live music Fri 6-9 pm and Sat 6-9 pm will accompany their award-winning wine, beautiful scenery and wood-fired pizza. Their Sangria Sunday specials might be winding down with the changing of the seasons so put a drive in the country on your weekend list and salud!
Heisen House Vineyards is tasting seven of the wines in the line up this weekend and continuing their summer concert series tonight from 6-9 pm with Tevis Hodge Jr. Catered dinner available for purchase to accompany some local, refreshing vino.
Olequa Cellars – Next wine tasting day will be Saturday, September 27 from noon to 5 p.m. Brian’s excellent wine-making skills are worth the wait. Great bottle prices on a Red Mountain AVA wine or plan to sit a spell under the shade and enjoy his wines by the glass.
Rusty Grape Vineyards is showing Footloose on their lawn tonight beginning at dusk (I’m never sure what time that actually is, either), their Bicyclette Rouge is on sale through this week and gearing up for Stompfest 2014 from noon-8 pm Saturday, September 27. Promising to be a riot as usual.
Battle Ground Produce typically hosts a free Friday wine tasting from 4-7 pm. Check Facebook for details.
Emanar Cellars in Battle Ground Village is featuring Olequa’s 2009 Caruso Red Reserve this weekend. Classical guitarist Michael McCabe will be complimenting the broad range of Spanish wines available by the taste, glass or bottle. Music Friday from 6-8 pm. Linger over their tapas menu which includes olives, almonds, a trio of cheeses served with quince paste spread over bread (very traditional Spanish tapas), as well as a few classic meat selections.
East County
English Estate Winery’s Friday night dinner is salmon and lemon risotto with music by Tom Mann. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. Come early to enjoy Yoga at the winery beginning at 5 pm.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Along with classic cocktails, live music on Fri & Sat, this classy spot has wine flights on Sundays beginning at 4 pm. This Sunday features three Chilean reds.
Krystal’s Champagne Lounge serves up more than bubbly in historic Camas with a few specials featured every Friday night.
Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited wine selection but, if you’re in the mood to feel the island vibe without leaving town, this is the place to be. Their menu is varied, the ambience is hard to beat the last official weekend of Summer and they typically host live music on Friday nights. Check their Facebook page.
East Fork Cellars took up residence inside the circa 1867 historic Slocum House in August 2013
This past Saturday night we spent a relaxed summer evening listening to live jazz at East Fork Cellars, perfectly situated in the middle of all the downtown Vancouver action in Esther Short Park.
Jazz band, Thee Aristocrats, performing at East Fork Cellars this past Saturday night.
We met our friends, Steve and Karin, and, for a few hours, enjoyed the sounds of Thee Aristocrats, a local jazz band made up of Alex Jones, Bob Blaidell, Christopher Read and Jerrold Fentress. Their electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, sax and flute can be heard in clubs around Portland and wineries in North County. The four of us wished the sax had its own mic because that’s our favorite instrument and the electric guitar seemed to drown everything else out BUT we really enjoyed the group. They play a mix of instrumental and vocal numbers which keeps things interesting and adds another dimension to them.
Tasting bar at East Fork Cellars with the elusive Lynda Lathrop hiding from my lens.
What we also enjoyed, of course, was the wine and the setting itself. Many Vancouver folks may remember that East Fork’s original location had been next to Pacific Northwest Best Fish in Ridgefield since 2008 (closed in April 2014). That’s where owner and winemaker, Jeff Waddell, along with his business partner, Stacey W. Stroup, established a wine and music following. Waddell’s been a professional musician for 30 years, touring with Tommy Two Tone, Cheap Trick, Ted Nugent and REO Sweedwagon to name a few. He still performs with other bands from time to time and plays lead guitar in East Fork’s house band, Les Cellar Rats.
Beautiful original Slocum House features being lovingly restored by owners, Jeff Waddell and Stacey Stroup
In June, at the second annual Craft Winefest held in Esther Short Park, East Fork garnered Double Gold for their Cellar Rat Red and Double Gold for their 2012 Dry Riesling. The honors were determined in a double-blind tasting and chosen from 23 participating wineries.
All their wines currently available are made from grapes sourced from the Columbia Valley AVA. Their 2012 Dry Riesling has notes of lemon and citrus with medium acid, medium body and a pleasant minerality. It’d be wonderful with medium cheeses, a light pasta dish, Thai food and artichokes. $15 a bottle
A nose of deep cherry and tobacco is prevalent in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s higher in tannin with a lovely cherry to light cranberry taste. A great dinner wine. $28 a bottle.
Their Expedition Red is a blend of Barbera, Tempranillo, Sangiovese & Syrah. These are mainly Italian grapes so dig deep into your inner European. Thick meat sauces or red sauces over pasta, even pizza with spicier, better-quality meats. Of course I’d go with Portobello mushroom drizzled with balsamic vinegar. Thicker, heavier, but not spicy like Mexican or Spanish, food. This is not a patio sipping wine and the purpose of it would be lost on that, frankly, unless you wanted to pair it with strong cheeses like blue-veined or, better yet, blue-veined cheese crumbled on meat or over a salad dressed in balsamic. Medium tannin, dry, cranberry notes. $27 a bottle.
The circa 1867 dining room at East Fork Cellars is a perfect perch from which to enjoy their scheduled, live music.
Cellar Rat Red is a versatile wine. It’s a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. While this blend showcases three full-bodied wines, the result is an approachable sipping wine as well as a wine to elevate a meal with. Merlot softens the edges of the Cab and Syrah brings another dimension to the party, namely a little pepper, spice and a hint of smoke. I’d pair it with salmon dressed with a mustard sauce or a dressed-up eggplant dish but premium cuts of meat would be an excellent accompaniment for meat lovers. $24 a bottle.
Another fun fact about East Fork is that outside food is allowed at the tables while listening to scheduled, live music inside their Slocum House Tasting Room or you can order off a menu that Hilton Hotels’ Grays at the Park put together to pair with East Forks’ wines. Kind of an added bonus there, I think.
Oh, and a special nod goes to Lynda Lathrop. She has to be one of the most accommodating and knowledgeable ladies presiding over a tasting room. Truly, if you go in and she’s pouring, soak up her plethora of wine wisdom.
East Fork Cellars is located at 605 Esther Street, Vancouver. Contact (360) 750-8000 or go to www.eastforkcellars.com.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room has cozy seating in an inviting atmosphere
Last Thursday a girlfriend and I went to a continuing ed class that was supposed to be a light-hearted class answering the question “Did people drink during prohibition?” Although we didn’t care for the instructor or feel he did much more than get stuck on a rant about evangelical Christians, the location of the class was worth another visit so my husband and I went back on Saturday afternoon before meeting up with some friends at East Fork Cellars.
I’ve posted about Cellar 55 Tasting Room before. Michelle Brinning and Trish Nolan will be celebrating the one-year anniversary of their expansion from a wine cellar storage facility to a full-fledged tasting room in September. How time flies.
These ladies are terrific. Honestly, I went in to acquaint myself with Cellar 55 in January, hadn’t been back until last Thursday and Trish greeted me at the front door by my first name. Now that’s impressive customer service.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room schedules live music on select Friday nights. Check out their website for a complete list of upcoming events.
Five Star Cellars was being featured in a six-tasting line up on Saturday for $9. Michelle was full of educational tips about the wine, as always. The nose on the 2013 Kynzie Rose of Sangiovese ($20) was fresh strawberries with a light and refreshing body-great patio wine for the last couple of days, to be sure. The 2009 Sangiovese ($28) leaned toward a fruity aroma, not quite jammy. Italian varietals being grown in Eastern Washington is becoming more common and they certainly have the climate for it. A little pasta and some pecorino and this bottle would make a very nice dinner companion. Latin for ‘5 Star’, the 2010 Quinque Astrum ($32) is a Super Tuscan style blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon. Definitely a big, bold wine. The 2009 Merlot is the bottle we came home with ($32) which is amusing because when I was there in January I bought a Merlot – Gordon Estate’s 2010. I often say Merlots receive a bad rap. They aren’t like the Merlots of…well, before I drank, probably. The Five Star has a big nose (I mean that in a nice way) that gives way to a lighter body than expected. It’s a wine that can be drank on its own or bring out a whole different personality paired with food which I really enjoy in a wine because I often times don’t know what the purpose of the bottle will be when I purchase it.
I was curious to figure out what my friend, Kelli, had on Thursday night. She really enjoyed it and said it was a Sauvignon Blanc so Michelle poured me a Purple Star Sauvignon Blanc that sells for $13 a bottle. I actually tried this wine back in January. It had a hint of lemon, finished crisp and makes a great choice for the warm weather we’re back to enjoying. I can see why Kelli went with it though I opted for a Syrah which was elegant and a bit velvety.
My husband hadn’t been to Cellar 55 yet and he agreed the ladies were approachable, not pretentious, trying to deliver value to each customer by supplying them with great, useful information about each pour. An event was going on while we were there and it was obvious Michelle and Trish knew a lot of the people well. The attendees were very friendly and gracious and brought some adorable pups with them (I wish Challenge was dog-friendly. Darn it!).
Open Thur-Sun with happy hour specials at select times on Thu, Fri and Sun, Cellar 55 Tasting Room is a great spot to enjoy wines by the glass or bottle. They also have a selection of charcuterie, cheeses and other light nibbles.
African-Style stewed kale tastes better than it looks but the bright red from the tomatoes and deep green from the kale says ‘packed with nutrients and flavor’ all on its own
The weather has cooled down (thank goodness) and it doesn’t seem crazy to use the stovetop at the moment so I went back to that kale website and made the African-Style Stewed Kale the other night.
I’m a fan of peanut sauces so, when I saw the ingredients for this recipe a few days ago, I knew I’d have to try it. The original recipe called for couscous which I have none of right now so I served it on a bed of lentils. The couscous would’ve sopped up the liquid so I just left the lid off the dish and simmered the ingredients on the stove for a few extra minutes to cook down the tomato juice a bit more.
Cellar Rat Red hanging out in our first-year asparagus patch. Next year fresh asparagus to pair with East Fork’s Dry Riesling possibly.
The minute I decided to introduce lentils, I knew the bottle of Cellar Rat Red from East Fork Cellars that I’d been saving would pair quite nicely. Lentils have an earthy quality about them that reminds me of mushrooms in scent and wine-pairing. East Fork sources the grapes in their Cellar Rat Red from the Columbia Valley AVA which is producing some remarkable Merlots, hopefully tackling the bad wrap that Merlot has acquired in recent years. It has its place, folks, just like every other wine out there.
The point of my Merlot segue is that Merlot is commonly blended with Cab Sauv to tame its potentially rough edges which East Fork has done with the Cellar Rat – 64 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 22 percent Merlot. It proved a worthy companion to the African-Style Stewed Kale (recipe below). Cheers!
African-Style Stewed Kale
2 Tbsp unsalted butter – I used olive oil
1 chopped onion
3 minced garlic cloves
1 Tbsp ground cumin
1 Tbsp ground coriander
1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes
2 heads kale, stemmed and chopped
½ C peanut butter
½ cilantro leaves
Couscous (1 cup dry couscous makes 2 – 2 ½ cups cooked couscous)*
*1 used 2 C lentils instead of couscous
Heat butter in a large sauté pan. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft. Stir in cumin and coriander, then tomatoes and kale. Cover and cook until kale is just tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in peanut butter and cilantro and simmer for 10 minutes; season with hot pepper sauce, if desired. 6 servings. Serve over couscous.
Note: I used lentils. Bring 2 cups water to a boil in medium pan. Add lentils, stir and reduce heat. Simmer for 15 minutes. Set aside. Stir lentils in with African-Style Stewed Kale (minus couscous) and serve as a bowl-type side dish or a wonderful main course for any vegetarian.
Savor, Sip and Sojourn 