Gordon Estate 2013 Chardonnay, Five Star Cellars 2010 Sangiovese, Purple Star 2009 Reserve Syrah and Basel Cellars 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon were all available for tasting or by the glass at the Wine and Food Society’s first event of 2015.
Community members active in the industry such as Scott Flury, owner of Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar, Sharon McCameron Whyte of Sharon’s Paint and Pour, Trish Nolan (former co-owner of Cellar 55) and her new business partner, Mei Wong—who have entered into an intriguing venture exporting Pacific Northwest wines to Asia—were present to show their support of the Wine and Food Society’s efforts to raise funds for local viticulture and culinary education. Also in attendance were the board members and good ‘ole lovers of fine wine and food backing this non-profit organization that has been around since 2006.
Ray Garza was to be thanked for the fabulous appetizer spread that paired beautifully with my Five Star Cellars 2010 Sangiovese.
Ray Garza was to be thanked for the fabulous appetizer spread that paired beautifully with my Five Star Cellars 2010 Sangiovese and delicious chocolates that magically appeared about an hour into the evening. Thankfully my dogs helped me jog off the chocolate truffle. Egads!
Vice-chair and owner of Cellar 55 Tasting Room, Michelle Brinning, was the ever-hospitable hostess, opening her space for this casual yet focused gathering and donating 10 percent of all bottle purchases for the night to the Wine and Food Society.
Vice-chair and owner of Cellar 55 Tasting Room, Michelle Brinning, was the ever-hospitable hostess, opening her space for this casual yet focused gathering and donating 10 percent of all bottle purchases for the night to the Wine and Food Society. The addition of James Manuele’s Spanish and Flamenco guitar-playing was the perfect backdrop for clinking wine glasses and friendly conversation.
Speaking at length with Dan Foster, one of the two founding members, his enthusiasm for the Society was immediately apparent. Over the years, the group has hosted fundraising events and gatherings all over Clark County and they have some particularly exciting ideas for the coming months.
Community members active in the industry such as Scott Flury, owner of Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar and Sharon McCameron Whyte of Sharon’s Paint and Pour were present to show their support of the Wine and Food Society’s efforts to raise funds for local viticulture and culinary education.
The next Wine and Food Society of Clark County event will be held at Visual Expressions Gallery adjacent to the Carulli Medical Clinic on 192nd Avenue. Featured artist is none other than Dr. Nick Carulli who is an accomplished photographer with a skilled eye for composition. Rumor has it Burnt Bridge Cellars will be pouring some of their award-winning wine. Save the date: Thursday, March 26th.
For more information about the Wine and Food Society of Clark County or to become a member, contact Susan Page at (360) 253-6941 or susan@wfscc.org.
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A cozy fireplace is the first thing that greets you walking into Latte Da’s 1901 digs
Scott Flury opened Latte Da Coffee House and Wine Bar in what he describes as uptown, uptown Vancouver, back in June of 2011 and since then it’s become a gathering place for the surrounding neighborhood and cozy lunch spot for area business people.
The wine bar at Latte Da’s is the one laptop-free room in the house, encouraging an intimate, personal atmosphere.
Scott had my attention at ‘Wine Bar’ and the fact that he and his girlfriend, Sarah, renovated a 1901 home to house their establishment in. Lovingly-restored homes-turned just about anything always catch my eye. Adding to the boxes of mine he, unknowingly, ticked is the outdoor space which I’ve lounged in numerous times with my husband and pups when the sun’s shining and a perfectly-chilled white hits the spot. They took full advantage of the corner lot by keeping a huge privacy arborvitae row, and lots of outdoor seating that’s even nice in inclimate weather since much of it is covered and heated plus one room that appears to have been the garage was converted into this terrific solarium that’s opened up in the summer months.
By now artwork is gracing the freshly-painted walls of Latte Da’s newly-added wine bar room
While Latte Da Coffee House and Wine Bar has always served wine, Scott’s really been upping his game in that area this year and, just last week, they began staying open until 10 pm Thursday-Saturday as a further commitment to the ‘Wine Bar’ portion of their vision.
Monthly wine tastings are offered from 5-7 pm typically the third Thursday of each month in a recently-renovated room now repurposed as the wine bar though wine can be enjoyed in any of the cozy indoor and outdoor spaces of Latte Da. A real bonus to Latte Da’s wine list is that all wines can be purchased by the bottle to consume off property and Scott offers a reduced price for that option as opposed to drinking on-site.
The converted garage-come-solarium is just off the wine bar, offering an outdoor feeling all year long.
I was there for his Thanksgiving wine pairing and people were coming in to taste for their family dinner and buy bottles to take home. It’s a huge added convenience for the neighborhood and folks popping in on their drive up the I-5 (Latte Da sits two blocks west of the 39th Street exit).
More proof of his desire to highlight the wine portion of Latte Da is the list. With the help of local wine representative, Fred Rehm, familiar bottles such as 14 Hands were taken off the menu and replaced with exciting new options like a Spanish Cava (sparkling wine), Piesporter Michelsberg (a light-bodied riesling from the acclaimed Mosel region of Germany), Torii Mor Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) and a Rioja Gran Reserva (tempranillo-based Spanish wine aged a minimum of five years before release).
The day-to-day food menu of quiche, panini, wraps, deli sandwiches and tempting pastries has also been expanded to include an appetizer menu focusing on more wine-friendly bites like an olive plate, stuffed mushrooms and antipasto platter ($3-$12).
The day-to-day food menu of quiche, panini, wraps, deli sandwiches and tempting pastries has also been expanded to include an appetizer menu focusing on more wine-friendly bites like an olive plate, stuffed mushrooms and antipasto platter ($3-$12). In the wine bar computers are off-limits, encouraging an intimate, unhurried, personal atmosphere. I’m already looking forward to meeting a friend there for the sparkling wine tasting on December 18th from 5-7 pm.
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Enjoyed a Phelps Creek Winery Pinot Noir at Niche Wine Bar during the Drink This! Vancouver event last weekend
Weekend highlights:
Niche Wine Bar celebrates their four-year anniversary TONIGHT (Thurs, Oct 23) right next door at the Kiggins Theatre. Folks can enjoy a glass of wine and/or appys at Niche and then mosey on over to enjoy the grandeur of the historic theatre while watching a line up of French films. Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance by contacting Niche. You can also purchase a bottle of vino at Niche to enjoy throughout the viewings. $10 corkage fee. It all starts at 6 pm.
Emanar Cellars is celebrating their one-year anniver-sherry with sherry tastings from 4-9 pm this Thur, Fri and Sat. Live music by guitarist, Michael McCabe, from 6-8 pm on Friday and a Spanish Wine & Chocolate fundraiser to bring Ruslan home for Christmas on Saturday.
English Estate Winery – Fifth annual Chili cook-off and pumpkin-carving contest this Sat, Oct 25 from 2-5 pm. Music by Laura May 2:30-4:30pm. This is a 21 and over event. Friday night dinner is maple-glazed ham with all the fixings and music by Caryn Jamieson. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – Carrying a selection of Columbia and Willamette Valley wines, the folks at Brewed are well-educated on the choices available.
Burnt Bridge Cellars – Recovered from another successful Drink This! Vancouver event last Saturday. Back to regular wine tasting hours Sat-Sun noon-5 pm.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Vocalist Chris Taylor is performing this Fri from 6:30-8:30 pm. His soulful voice will be aptly paired with The Pit BBQ fro 5-9 pm. New hours. Now open at noon Wed-Sun.
Charlie’s Bistro – 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. Tomorrow night solo guitarist, John Bunzow, plays from 7-10 pm.
East Fork Cellars – It appears they’re still closed while Gallery 360 moves in to share space and offer even more to wine and art enthusiasts when they re-open. Definitely looking to be open for the First Friday Art Walk Nov 7.
Evergreen Wine Cellar typically hosts a Friday night tasting from 5-8 pm for $5 per person but changed this weeks’ day and location to support her friend, Wendy, who just opened We Plan It. Look forward to her regularly-scheduled Friday night tasting to resume next week.
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. Wine tasting every Wednesday night from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Keep Oct 30 open for 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 – Celebrating their four-year anniversary at Kiggins Theatre tonight (see top of post). A cozy wine bar designed for wine enthusiasts. 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
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 today’s French Dip Sandwich. 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. 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.
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 – Call now to purchase tickets for their Winemaker’s Dinner Sat, Nov 2 at 5 pm. Chef Peter Dougherty of La Bottega will be preparing the perfect menu to accompany Confluence’s French oak-aged wines. Tasting room hours Sat-Sun noon-5 pm.
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 Erik Sutten from 5-7 pm while sipping on, say, a Geisha Red. Open Wed-Sun.
Gougér Cellars – Live music by solo guitarist Ron Hughes from 5-8 pm this Friday. Not sure if Gary’s recently-completed back deck is covered but there’s 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. 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 – Their ’10 Brethren Cuvee 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 – 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 – 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. Live music this Fri by Grammy award-winning guitarist, Doug Smith, accompanied by his wife, Judy Koch-Smith and Sat Wayne Hoffman and Mollie Hart 6-9 pm. Award-winning wine, beautiful scenery and wood-fired pizza available Fri-Sun.
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 Fri-Sun.
Olequa Cellars – Next wine tasting day this Saturday, Oct 25 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 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. Open Wed-Sun.
Cozy up to Emanar Cellars’ bar for their one year anniver-sherry this Thu-Sat
Emanar Cellars in Battle Ground Village is celebrating their one year anniver-sherry with sherry tastings Thur-Sat from 4-9 pm along with their impressive selection of quality Spanish wines. Enjoy guitarist, Michael McCabe Fri from 6-8 pm. Excited to hear his gypsy jazz and Spanish classical. This Sat is the Spanish Wine & Chocolate fundraiser to bring Ruslan home for Christmas. A lot going on at Emanar so stop by and join in.
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.
The Loafing Shed at English Estate Winery – plenty of cozy indoor seating for the fall weather
English Estate Winery – Fifth annual Chili cook-off and pumpkin-carving contest this Sat, Oct 25 from 2-5 pm. Music by Laura May 2:30-4:30pm. This is a 21 and over event. Friday night dinner is maple-glazed ham with all the fixings and music by Caryn Jamieson. Music and food begin at 6 p.m. The only winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm.
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Live music beginning at 8 pm this Fri and Sat. Sunday wine flight pouring begins at 4 pm. Spend some time cozying up at this classic cocktail lounge and enjoy the behind-the-bar entertainment of Dennis as a bonus.
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.
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 right now – 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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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.
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
Tonight Evergreen Wine Cellar is hosting a tasting of 8 Italian wines paired with wine-appropriate small bites of olives, spaghetti, blue cheese and chocolate. The event is from 5-8 p.m. with a $5 per person fee.
Evergreen Wine Cellar opened March of 2008 and owner, Pam Robertson, particularly enjoys using her food and wine pairing skills to help customers make informed purchases.
Evergreen Wine Cellar is a well-stocked wine store on Evergreen Blvd located next to Christine’s Restaurant
Evergreen Wine Cellar is a locally-owned business that carries the most diverse selection of sparkling wines in town and there’s a fantastically impressive wall of bubbles to the left of the shop as you enter to solidify that claim.
Walking a bit deeper in, there’s a cozy room that’s akin to a comfy library furnished with wingback chairs and walls that Pam’s husband paneled with old piano covers from the days when the store was a piano shop.
In total there are three rooms chock full of local and imported wines from around the world making it a fun wine shop to explore. Pam’s knowledge adds value to every visit. She’s working toward adding a wine club in the coming weeks and hopes to expand her wine and food tastings to full-fledged classes at some point.
For now, weekly wine tastings are generally offered but it’s best to sign up on her mailing list for the most up-to-the-minute information on what’s going on at Evergreen Wine Cellar. Evergreen offers competitive prices, works with special events and offers wine shipping, as well. Check them out at 2608 E Evergreen Blvd, Vanc.
Maryhill Pinot Gris and Winemaker’s Red-available at Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar
Latte da Coffee House & Wine Bar is celebrating the grand re-opening of their wine bar tonight from 4-8 p.m. They’re rolling out their new menu, featuring wines by Burnt Bridge Cellars (Vancouver) and Forgeron Cellars (Walla Walla), as well as appetizers by Camas’ Navidi’s Olive Oils and the Beautiful Pig – a Longview charcuterie. Rounding out the celebration will be wine bottle giveaways and music by classical guitarist, James Wallace. Latte da is located at 205 E 39 St, Vanc. They have ample covered outdoor seating, open air outdoor seating and a variety of cozy indoor spaces to while away a lazy Friday evening with some close friends.
While I try to focus mainly on Clark County goings on, The Oregon Historical Society has an exciting exhibit that opened June 7 and will continue through Sep 20 – Clink! A Taste of Oregon. They’ve paired (pardon the pun) the exhibit with a few wine-related events, as well.
Oregon Vineyards: Through the Eyes of an Artist runs from Jun 7-Sep 20, as well, and “features local artists sharing their unique interpretations of Oregon vineyards.”
On June 30 at 9 p.m. on OPB (Channel 10) Oregon Wine: Grapes of Place will be presented. This program focuses on Willamette Valley pioneers disregarding naysayers and establishing vineyards that would rival Burgundy, France.
The first Willamette Week Wine Wednesdays has passed but there are still two more opportunities this summer to attend happy hour events on the last Wednesday of July and August from 5:30-7:30 p.m where Oregon wines will be tasted. Tickets are $15 which includes tastings, appetizers and after-hour museum admission.
For those interested in exerting energy for the love of wine, an Oregon Wine Country half marathon will be held on Sun, Aug 31 beginning at Stoller Family Estate located in Dayton, OR.
The Oregon Historical Society wraps up its wine focus on Sep 14 from 1-4 p.m. with an end of summer celebration which includes tastings from Brooks Winery, Cooper Mountain, Elk Cove and ArborBrook Vineyards. I’m guessing some Sokol Blosser wine will be thrown in since Susan Sokol Blosser will be giving a presentation at 2 p.m. Cost: $15 which includes tastings but not museum admission.
Latte da has a terrific patio space for warmer days that extends from the front of its circa 1940’s home-turned-cozy dining and sipping spot but we chose the converted garage since I really wanted to be outside and our dogs were with us. As we sat at a corner table encircled by windows the sun cascaded in, warming us on the outside while our wine choices warmed us from the inside.
Their small wine selection seems perfectly chosen to cater to a variety of palates while keeping their stock manageable. The one draw back is that all their wines are served in stemless glasses; not the best presentation for whites but I’ve asked the owner about it in the past and he feels it cuts down on the breakage of glass ware. He’s a super great guy and, again, I love his space so I just roll with it.
As many of you know I’m much more a red wine gal than a white but sometimes, when the sun’s streaming just right and I’m itching for those languid 80 degree August days being a slug on my back patio, a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris sounds perfect.
Latte da accommodates with a refreshing Maryhill Winery Pinot Gris ($5.49) but my husband opted for their Winemaker’s Red ($5.99) which is also consistently a sure bet. A mid-straw color with a hint of spice and light apple on the nose with an off-dry finish, this Pinot Gris delivered the refreshing, clean mouth feel I was looking for. It would’ve probably paired nicely with a slice of their Spinach & Artichoke quiche ($4.75) or Veggie Panini ($8.79)
Open Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat 7 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun 7 a.m.-5 p.m., there are plenty of opportunities to linger over coffee with a satisfying breakfast or wine with some satiating accompaniments. Keep an eye on their community board out front. They have live music, sip and paint events and a host of other fun gatherings.
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Vancouver boasts some nice places to enjoy good wine but some of them are a bit sleepy when I’m there which makes me think people just don’t go off the beaten path much so I’d like to share a few favorites. Most of these establishments don’t have extensive wine lists but, if you enjoy a thoughtful wine selection in a less kid-friendly environment, you should find some new spots in this line up.
Brewed Happy hours: Considered their ‘after 5pm menu’ that goes until 10pm
Why I like it: This place is a bright, inviting whole-in-the-wall and the wines are chosen by the owners who are happy to tell you about every bottle they offer
Why I like it: I particularly enjoy the bar seating because the bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly but not imposing, outdoor summer seating in the courtyard, healthier options on their happy hour menu, live music on Friday nights from 7-9pm (times can vary)
Why I like it: This place feels more coffee house-focused by they do have a thoughtful selection of local wines. Additionally, they have a fantastic outdoor space that is underused every time I’m there. It’s also in an old house which just feels cozy. The downside is they serve their wine in stemless glasses so I don’t order white wines here but I’m a bigger fan of reds anyway.
Why I like it: Ok, this place can actually have a lot of kids running around because they’re big on a family atmosphere and it’s rarely ‘sleepy’ but it’s still one of my top places to enjoy local wine in Clark County. Jeremy and Heather have strived for several years to create a warm, inviting space and they must be doing something right because they consistently have only a few wines to choose from. Last night they had two reds but their Bicyclette Rouge paired perfectly with the sweet, soft voice of Ashley Jhaveri. An added bonus: Vintner’s Hours are 4:30-6:30pm every Thursday when their wines are $3 per glass
Savor, Sip and Sojourn 