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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Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25 make plans to visit Clark County Wine Country. Fourteen wineries have joined forces to create a Memorial Weekend Passport. Courtesy of Michele Bloomquist.
Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend tour – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25 make plans to visit the 16 wineries in Clark County. Fourteen of them have joined forces to create a Memorial Weekend Passport. Print it out here, obtain 6 stamps and be entered to win one of 14 gift cards.
Hello Vancouver! – Wed, May 27 at 7 pm the historic Kiggins Theatre presents this live talk show with local musicians and personalities. Buy a glass of wine (Francis Ford Coppola, of course) or beer in their fabulous retro-style upstairs bar and sink in for what’s sure to be a night of hilarity and craziness. Recommended PG-13. Doors open at 6 pm. Admission: FREE.
The Craft Winefest of Vancouver – Fri, Jun 12-Sun, Jun 14 marks the 3rd Annual with 150 wines and 25 hand-selected micro brews located at Esther Short Park. Proceeds go to Vancouver’s Downtown Association & Second Chance Companions. Area winners are English Estate Winery, Koi Pond Cellars, Olequa,Cellars, Pomeroy Cellars and Rezabek Vineyards/Daybreak Cellars!
International Pinot Noir Celebration – Fri, July 24-Sun July 26 Held on the grounds of Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon, this is the premier event for pinot noir lovers to taste this delicate and earthy wine from over 70 wineries. Tickets range from $125 for their Sunday afternoon outdoor tasting event to $1,200 for a full submersion weekend including a salmon bake dinner, seminars, a vineyard tour and much more.
North County Wine Run – Sat, Sep 12 The 5th Annual day-long event begins at 9 am and wines by Heisen House Vineyards, Olequa Cellars, Emanar Cellars, English Estate Winery, Gougér Cellars Winery and Moulton Falls Winery will be available after the run for tasting or by the glass. Read more here.
Clark County wineries:
Bethany Vineyard – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour. Sun, July 26—Playing host to 3 Grands Concert for the Blind at 6 pm. Featuring award-winning blind pianists Mac Potts, Nick Baker, Brent Gjerve and jazz vocalist, Darcy Schmitt. Proceeds go to the School of Piano Technology for the Blind and the Pacific Foundation for Blind Children. Tasted some of their 2011 Malbec at the recent Holland America Art Show & WIne Festival and it was beautiful. The lovingly-maintained grounds of this estate vineyard is the perfect spot to enjoy Bethany’s extensive list. From Riesling to cabernet franc to petite syrah, there’s a bottle for every palate. Music in the Vines summer concert series begins July 19 with Lisa Mann, Aug 9 with Dan Reed and Aug 30 with the Patrick Lamb band. Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour. Open Sat & Sun noon-6 pm tasting the bold and beautiful Rhone and Bordeaux reds Confluence is known for. The tasting room expansion is coming along nicely and should be completed by early summer and Greg’s 2012 Syrah is a smooth representation of this food-friendly wine. Keep tabs on their Facebook page for last-minute live music by stellar local artists.
East Fork Cellars – Drop in for a tasting of their award-winning estate grown Pinot Noir. Housed in the historic Old Slocum House within Esther Short Park, tasting room hours are Sat and Sun noon – 5 pm with occasional live music events.
English Estate Winery – Fri, May 22—Cashew chicken dinner-for-purchase accompanied by local artist, Michael Riopelle, from 6-8:30 pm. Reservations encouraged. Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour. Wed, May 27—A Wine about Painting event begins at 6:30 pm $40 buys all supplies and a glass of wine. This just in: Their Marguerite Metis is a Double Gold 2015 Craft Winefest Competition Winner! July 11 & 12—8th Annual Art & Wine Fair with local artisans. The only Clark County winery open Monday from 4:30-7 pm with $5 glasses of wine to start your week off right. Open Fri-Mon.
Gary’s putting a spin on Margaritaville for Memorial Day Weekend. Let the sound of steel drums lead you to Gougerville this Saturday and Sunday.
Gougér Cellars – Sat, May 23-Sun, May 24—Gary’s cooking up something special for Memorial Day Weekend. He’s thanking all Veterans and Active Military with a 20-percent-off-cases discount and putting a spin on Margaritaville with Gougerville—viognier and margarita mix will become Garitas, he’s hosting a steel drum musician on the back patio, handing out Mardi Gras beads and Hawaiian leis and encouraging Hawaiian shirts to ramp up the celebration. There’ll also be a Hula Hoop contest, Cajun and sweet/smoky drum sticks and potato salad. Can you say Parrothead? Enjoy his non-alcoholic ice cream combinations such Zinfandel with chocolate chip and Muscat with blackberries after a tasting of his award-winning wines and love on Dolce—his super cute labradoodle pup. Tasting room open Wed-Sun.
Heisen House Vineyards – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour. Michele recently received a shout out from a couple Willamette Valley insiders for her 2011 Pinot Noir so, naturally, there’s not much left. Grab a bottle for yourself before it’s going, going, gone. Come enjoy a six-wine tasting on the gorgeous and historic Heisen grounds. Some options might be their Barn Owl White, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Tempranillo Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Moulton Falls Winery – Thu, May 21—Enjoy their version of Thirsty Thursday from 4-8 pm with $9 pizzas and $5 cider. Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour and Sat, May 23 marks the first Wine Train of the season and the winery’s Third Anniversary. Sat, Jun 27—The Guitar Summit with Terry Robb, Mark Hanson and Doug Smith is a must-attend event. Tickets go on sale May 1 at http://www.tickettomato.com, $12 pre-sale $15 day of event. Sat, Sep 12—Save the date for the Third Annual Clark County Folk Festival held on the Moulton Falls grounds. Come check out their made-on-site Hard Cider and chat with Spike Walker, author of the book Working on the Edge which inspired the Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch. Each weekend enjoy live music by some of the area’s best musicians from 6-9 pm and pasta dinners available for purchase on Saturday nights in addition to their wood-fired pizza options. Normal days: Thu-Sun.
Olequa Cellars – Sat, May 23-Sun, May 24—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour From 11 am-1 pm each day there’ll be an early bird special with an assortment of complimentary cheese and crackers to pair with new releases including Brian’s 2014 Rosé of Maréchal Foch—a varietal he’s had planted on his property since 2005. This just in: Brian’s 2013 Riesling was a Double Gold 2015 Craft Winefest Competition Winner! His dog-friendly patio is particularly inviting on a warm spring afternoon with a glass (or bottle) of his exceptional offerings. Private tastings of his beautiful boutique wines welcome.
Extended hours for Memorial Weekend at Pomeroy Cellars near Lucia Falls Park and Moulton Falls Winery ; noon-6 pm each day with a special appearance by George the Winery Goat.
Pomeroy Cellars – Fri, May 22-Sun, May 24—Extended hours for Memorial Weekend; noon-6 pm each day with a special appearance by George the Winery Goat. Thu, Jun 4 begins a new series at Pomeroy—First Thursdays—which will run on the first Thur of every month through Sep 3. Details still being worked out but twilight tours of the Pomeroy Living History Farm, including the Log House, barn, and blacksmith’s shop sound promising. According to Fuller, proceeds will benefit the children’s education programs conducted by PLHF. Stay tuned for more info. Buy it while supplies last: Dan’s 2012 Lucia No.47 red blend was a Double Gold 2015 Craft Winefest Competition Winner and they’re down to their last few cases! Normal tasting room days: Sat-Sun.
Rezabek Vineyards and Daybreak Cellars – Read more here. Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Pouring in the Pump House of English Estate Winery for Memorial Weekend.This just in: Their Solstice red blend is a Bronze 2015 Craft Winefest Competition Winner and their 2014 Tempranillo Rosé won Gold! Rezabek’s own tasting room’s still in the works but Roger & Donna invite private tastings at their Battle Ground-area location on a by-appointment basis. Email them at rezabekvineyards@gmail.com.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour. Recently voted Best of Clark County Winery! In addition to their paninis and wood-fired truffle chips, they have a crab and asparagus pizza that looks wonderful. Their 2012 Merlot is amazing and their lineup of whites is perfect for our Spring weather. Live music Wed-Sat from 7-9 pm. Come check out additional indoor seating. 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.
Three Brothers Vineyard – Fri, May 22-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour . Complimentary appetizers provided. Among the perfect patio sippers is Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc and bottles are dwindling rapidly on their Library White Wine sale. Summer Concert Series begins July 12 with Stone in Love and Aug 16 with Lloyd Jones. Winemaker, Dan Andersen, was featured here. Look for an expansion of outdoor seating in 2015 and some other surprises. Tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Village Vineyard – Sat, May 23-Mon, May 25—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour . Stop by for a tasting and stay for a glass of wine at this centrally-located winery. Folks are invited to bring munchies to snack on while enjoying some adult down time. Normal tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm.
Wine bars/tasting rooms:
Birch Street Uptown Lounge – Their expansion into the space next to them is in full swing. Look forward to some wine dinners and other tantalizing events in the future. Sunday and Monday night wine flights from 4-midnight with terrific tasting notes. Come out and enjoy this classic-style wine and cocktail lounge with live torch singers every Fri and Sat night beginning at 8 pm that has even Portland folks venturing over the river.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Fri, May 22—Tried & Blue live music from 6:30-8:30 pm, dinner-for-purchase from 5:30-8:30 pm and local artist work displayed. This just in: Five Star Cellar’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a Double Gold 2015 Craft Winefest Competition Winner and Gordon Estate’s 2012 Merlot is a Gold medal winner! Pouring their fantastic Eastern Washington and Walla Walla wines by the glass or bottle along with light appetizers for purchase. Local art and special happy hours are featured throughout the week as well as live music most Fridays from 7-9 pm. Open at noon Wed-Sun.
Emanar Cellars – Fri, May 22 – Sat, May 23—Relax to the sounds of local musicians, Michael McCabe & Daniel Cecil, from 6-8 pm. Thu, May 21-Sun, May 24—Clark County Wine Country Memorial Weekend Tour and a special pouring of Pomeroy Cellars’ Double Gold-winning Lucia 47 blend. Owners, Richard and Mar, are sharing photos of their recent Spain trip via scrolling slide show. Enjoy their extensive lineup of Spanish wines with first-hand tasting notes and authentic tapas Thursday-Saturday.
Sat, May 23 Flutes & Rocks is premiering Sarah Canepa Bang’s newest venture; Uptown Funk in Downtown Camas as 7 pm. Photo courtesy of Kara Santa Ana Photography.
Flutes & Rocks Lounge – Sat, May 23—Premiering Sarah Canepa Bang’s newest venture; Uptown Funk in Downtown Camas as 7 pm. Enjoy sparklings from California, high-end Champagnes by the glass, wines, beers and select liquors (I.e. Jameson Black Barrel Select Reserve) paired with an artisan cheese plate or charcuterie platter. Stay tuned for: outdoor seating, live music, more scheduled wine and Bourbon tastings! Open Tues-Sat.
Grapes ‘n Growlers – This east side establishment features eight rotating keg wines (one of my favs, 2012 Torii Mor Pinot Noir is currently in the lineup) as well as 34 rotating beers on tap. They’ve had a couple Tap Takeovers recently. Wonderful if a keg winery’s in the mix for a wine tap takeover? Small plates like paninis, charcuterie board and cheese platters available. Check out the details here.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Thurs, May 28 from 5-7 pm is the next wine tasting in this intimate and inviting wine bar. Try four wines for $5. Latte Da’s wine bar is open ’til 10 pm Thur-Sat featuring a wine-friendly appetizer menu to pair with their unique vino selection and beer taps coming soon. Bonus: The expansive patio’s looking more inviting with each day we inch into summer and all wines are available to purchase by the bottle for take away.
Niche-a wine & art bar– Sun, May 24—The annual Pajama Party runs from 7-10 pm. This adult-only event will feature for-purchase bites and a special Sparkling wine flight. This downtown wine bar has 30+ pours available six days a week with a staff who knows their vino. All set in an unpretentious atmosphere displaying local art. With an inventory of over 160 bottles also available to take away, Niche easily doubles as a wine shop. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence five years straight. Recently featured here. 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 live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
Wine shops:
Evergreen Wine Cellar – Owner, Pam Robertson, was featured here. Fri, May 22—Taste five wines for $5 from 5-8 pm. Thu, June 4—Pam will be leading Wine 101: The basics of wine and food pairing for $35.00 per person per class which includes wine pours and light bites. Classes will cover the basic process of winemaking, terminology, soil, weather conditions and touch on most geographical regions. Limited to 10 people. Sign up by calling her. Thu, June 11—It’s an art and wine class offered by Murals by Janet. Pam has the largest selection of sparklings in Clark County (80 at last count), holds extensive knowledge on food pairings to help more occasions be elevated to special ones and offers special pricing for fundraisers and special events. Sign up for her email blast to keep in the loop.
Niche-a wine & art bar – With an inventory of over 160 bottles also available to take away, Niche easily doubles as a wine shop. See details in Wine Bars/Tasting Rooms.
La Bottega–With 300+ bottles also available to take away, La Bottega doubles as another exceptional downtown Vancouver wine shop. See details in Wine-focused/unique restaurants to sip vino.
Grocery/Beverage store tastings:
Battle Ground Produce – The owner of Battle Ground Produce, Lorne, knows his wine and enjoys offering complimentary tastings to customers most Fridays from 4-7 pm. Andreas, Rayne and Scott pour with insight, passion and friendly banter. There’s usually something for the beer lover, as well, and he recently added a handy growler station across from the meat case.
BevMo! – Fri 4-7 pm & Sat 2-5 pm, 5 tastings, always complimentary unless otherwise indicated. Presiding over the pouring could be the very pleasant and cheerful, Anna, accompanied by manager, Kristin. Low key, comfortable atmosphere.
Fred Meyer Fisher’s Landing – Every Fri & Sat from 2-5 pm long-time Clark County wine steward, Ernie Jones, aims for two tastings with occasional Murray’s cheese pairings. Enjoy their dedicated wine-tasting space.
Fred Meyer Orchards – Fri, 2-5 pm & Sat, 1-5 pm wine steward, Shawn Martin, hosts a two to three-wine tasting that he pairs with Murray’s cheeses and focuses on lesser-known wines to broaden his customers’ wine catalog. Shawn’s commitment to local wines is evident in his terrific end cap featuring Bethany Vineyards, Koi Pond Cellars and Three Brothers Vineyard.
Fred Meyer Salmon Creek – Fri & Sat from 3-6 pm wine steward, Kent Gallegos, routinely pairs two wines with Murray’s cheeses. Don’t know quite what you’re looking for? Kent’s enthusiastic palate and gregarious personality won’t steer you wrong.
Rogue Valley’s RoxyAnn Winery pouring from 4-6 pm at New Seasons.
New Seasons Market – Sat, May 23—J Albin Winery pouring from 2-4 pm. Fri, May 29—Oregon Wine Month concludes with organic and biodynamic Brooks Winery from 4-6 pm. Friday tastings are paired with cheeses.
Total Wine & More – Tasting hours: Fri, 4-8 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm. Check out their calendar for upcoming special event tastings and classes which may include a fee.
Whole Foods – Beer & wine specialist, Kamram, hosts beer or wine tastings Sat from 1-4 pm. Also tasting on Friday evenings from 4-8 pm but it’s typically beer-focused.
Wine-focused/unique restaurants to sip vino:
Brewed – The crew concentrates on local, quality wine offerings from the Columbia and Willamette Valleys, know what they carry and do it all in a neighborhood spot with cozy seating options and a community vibe. Also available are brews, mimosas, Bloody Mary’s and an occasional, seasonally-inspired adult beverage. Locati Cellars, Charles Smith, AniChe Cellars and the ever-sassy Naked Winery round out their selection.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – The patio seating is looking spic, span and utterly inviting. Wine-O Wednesday, with $1 off mimosas, spritzers and wines by the glass is more appealing as the weather warms up. Wed, June 3—Owner and Wine and Spirits Diploma-holder from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, Keri Buhman, is instructing a Clark College continuing ed wine class from 6-8:30 pm at the Columbia Tech Center. Keri gives people an excuse to drink wine with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. Perfectly-flavored mimosas with such inspirations as tarragon crab cake salad and black forest French toast. Très bon. Open Tue-Sat 9 am-3 pm.
Charlie’s Bodega Tapas & Whiskey Bar – Monday 50% off all bottles of wine $50 and under and a Tuesday night flight tasting—3 whiskeys or 3-4 wines depending on bartender’s pick paired with a tapas (similar to an appetizer) or media-ración (small version of an entrée). The entire menu aims to educate folks on Spanish cuisine and their wine selection is heavily Spanish and Portuguese with a few NW favorites mixed in. Whiskey lovers will enjoy the ever-expanding local, regional and international choices with the promise of more to come. Open Mon-Sat.
Farrar’s Bistro – If you haven’t been to this great Felida neighborhood restaurant that touts ‘comfort food with a flair’ as its motto (I.e. turkey sandwich with brie on rustic rye bread & black sesame-crusted ahi salad), it’s time to check it out (and enjoy their outdoor seating). Happy hour 3:30-6 pm. Complement some small plates with a velvety cabernet sauvignon or herbaceous sauvignon blanc.
The Grant House – Order from their new Spring menu and enjoy toe-tapping live music every Tues and Wed from 6-8 pm with happy hour Tue-Sat from 3-6 pm. Cozy up in this circa 1849 space, with an expansive, dog-friendly patio for summer sippin’ and extensive wines-by-the-bottle list and stay for dinner in “Vancouver’s oldest dining room” located on Officer’s Row.
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – A largely Washington, Oregon and California-inspired wine list with their summer selection rolling out soon. Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center, enjoy a glass of Washington Chardonnay with a plate of sautéed mussels or a glass of Barnard Griffin Cabernet Merlot with a meatloaf sandwich under the massive Northwest logs during ‘Hudson’s Hour’ from 4-6 pm or snag one of their few outdoor tables.
La Bottega– Wednesday night wine tasting from 5-7 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti. Terrific casual Italian dining with an extensive wine list to complement every flavor profile. Happy hour Mon-Sat features $5 red/white wine option. Tuesday, from 5-9 pm, 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. With an inventory of 300+ bottles also available to take away, La Bottega easily doubles as a wine shop.
Lapellah Restaurant & Bar – A vegetarian spring orecchiette was just added to the lunch menu highlighting asparagus and spring peas that just screams Sauvignon Blanc. In the Grand Central shopping center, another area restaurant with a focus on local farmers and educating patrons on wine varietals from as near as Washington, Oregon and California and as international as Argentina, Chile, France, Italy and Spain in their 100+ bottle selection. Sunday Suppers feature a two-course prix fixe meal $20 for one, $30 for two. Several wines by the glass available daily and occasional winemaker dinners scheduled.
Pasta GiGi’s – Plenty of ground floor and verandah outdoor seating in the round at Battle Ground Village. Enjoy lunch al fresco overlooking the Saturday Market where owner, Kathy, and chef Paul shop local for inspired weekly specials like the recent pasta salad with lavender fettuccine tossed with lemon infused olive oil. Sunsets free of charge! Occasional winemaker dinners scheduled.
The Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. Their wine selection is limited but this is the North Bank’s answer to Margaritaville. The crew is terrific, the menu covers a range of tastes and it is THE place to be on a sunny day or a liquid sunshine day when your heart longs for an island escape.
Roots Restaurant & Bar – Thu, June 25 at 6 pm—Don’t miss the five-course Walla Walla Vintners Winemaker’s Dinner-paired with wine-for $85 per person. Halibut is back for spring and the Balboa Chardonnay would be a beautiful pairing. 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.
Willem’s on Main – Creative lunch and dinner menu like the recent sautéed potato gnocchi with wilted romaine, garlic brat, bacon and grilled lemon jus, excellent happy hour Tues-Sat from 2-5 pm to enjoy with their carefully-prepared wine list and 50% off bottles under $40 all day Tuesdays are just some of the reasons to love this downtown Vancouver spot.
Flutes & Rocks (formerly Krystal’s Champagne Lounge) having ribbon-cutting in conjunction with Camas First Fridays this Friday at 5:30 pm to celebrate their rebranding and light remodel.
Fri, Feb 6–First Friday in the downtown core of Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground and Ridgefield and the overwhelming theme is chocolate in honor of Valentine’s Day. Stores stay open late, local art is featured, live music can be heard and nibbles are available at select locations. Check each city’s local link for more information.
Fri, Feb 6 – Flutes & Rocks Lounge (formerly Krystal’s Champagne Lounge) will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 pm in conjunction with Camas First Fridays. Recently reopened after a remodel and rebranding to better incorporate their thoughtful selection of spirits.
Burnt Bridge Cellars–Sun, Feb 8 at 5 pm a benefit for Our House will be hosted. This is a ticketed barrel tasting and Spanish tapas-influenced event to benefit this Portland-based HIV/AIDS care facility. Purchase tickets ($90/person) at www.ourhouseofportland.org or by calling (503) 736-9276.
Upcoming events:
Clark County wineries – Fri, Feb 13-Sun, Feb 15 Clark County wineries are solidifying plans for the annual wine and chocolate tour. Mark your calendars for an opportunity to ‘sweet talk your sweetheart.’
Sharon’s Paint and Pour – Fri, Feb 13— Gougér Cellars Winery will once again play host to a no-experience-necessary paint night from 6-8 pm, this time with a Valentine’s twist. Sharon provides all supplies and the first glass of bubbly is on her! All for $40 per person. Reservations required.
Newport Seafood & Wine Festival – Thu, Feb 19-Sun, Feb 22—Touted as “the original Northwest seafood and wine festival”, there are also arts and craft booths scattered amidst culinary and winery masterminds at this 37th annual event.
This weekend:
Downtown
Brewed – The crew doesn’t have a large selection of wines but they concentrate on local, quality offerings from the Columbia and Willamette Valleys, know what they carry and do it all in a terrific neighborhood spot with cozy seating options . Also available are mimosas, Bloody Mary’s and an occasional, seasonally-inspired adult beverage like Irish coffee. Current wine offerings include several from Locati Cellars, Charles Smith’s earthy Boom Boom Syrah, AniChe Cellars’ Barbariccia which is a sangiovese blend and the ever-sassy Naked Winery’s Penetration Cabernet Sauvignon and Foreplay Chardonnay.
Burnt Bridge Cellars– Fri, Feb 6—Open 4-8 pm for First Friday with live music, local art and paella from Class Cooking. Sun, Feb 22—From 1-2 pm sommelier, Missy Kipp, will lead an Evaluation of Wine education class. $20 includes wine & cheese. Sat Feb 28- Sun Mar 1—Introducing new wines during their Winter Release. Enjoy award-winning wine at Vancouver’s only urban winery. David and Mark source their grapes from Eastern Washington and are particular about their wine competitions. 2014 and 2015 brought high praise from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Normal tasting room hours Sat, Sun noon-5 pm. See top of post for Feb 8 event.
Cellar 55 Tasting Room – Fri, Feb 6—Celebrating First Friday with “wine, food, art and music.” Music from 6-9 pm most Friday nights. Pouring their fantastic Eastern Washington and Walla Walla wines by the glass or bottle along with light appetizers for purchase. Local art and special happy hours are featured throughout the week. Sun, Feb 8—Enjoy local artists and happy hour wine specials at the Artisan Craft Fair from 1-6 pm. Fri, Feb 13-Sun Feb 15—Look forward to Wine & Chocolate weekend Cellar 55 style. Open at noon Wed-Sun.
Charlie’s Bodega – Check out the rebranded Charlie’s Bodega Tapas & Whiskey Bar, including Monday 50% off all bottles of wine $50 and under and a Thursday night flight tasting—3 whiskeys or 3-4 wines depending on bartender’s pick paired with a tapas (similar to an appetizer) or media-ración (small version of an entrée). The entire menu aims to educate folks on Spanish cuisine and their wine selection is heavily Spanish and Portuguese with a few NW favorites mixed in. Whiskey lovers will enjoy the 32 local, regional and international choices with the promise of more to come. Open Mon-Sat.
East Fork Cellars – Closed for the winter season but look for them to be open for First Friday events (open Fri, Feb 6) until they officially re-open on March 21 for the Vancouver Farmers Market season. Housed in the historic Old Slocum House. Gallery 360 —inside East Fork Cellars—is open Wed-Sun noon-5 p.m.
Evergreen Wine Cellar – Fri, Feb 6—Owner, Pam Robertson, hosting a seven bubbles tasting for $10 from 5-8 pm. Contact her to be placed on her e-mail blast for up-to-date event notices. She also has the largest selection of sparklings in Clark County (80 at last count) and holds extensive knowledge on food pairings to help more occasions be elevated to special ones.
The Grant House –Recently changed live music to Tues and Wed only with happy hour extended to 6 pm. Cozy up in this circa 1849 space with an extensive wines-by-the-bottle list and stay for dinner in “Vancouver’s oldest dining room” located on Officer’s Row. Sat, Feb 14—A special 5-course dinner, with three entrée options, has been prepared. Reservations recommended.
La Bottega– Sat, Feb 14 – Planning a special Valentine’s Day menu by reservation only. Terrific casual Italian dining with a wine list to complement every flavor profile. Happy hour Mon-Sat features $5 red/white wine option. 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. Wednesday night wine tasting from 5-8 pm. $12 includes four tastings and antipasti. Bottles available for take away.
Latte da Coffeehouse & Wine Bar – Thurs, Feb 26 from 5-7 pm Scott is hosting his next wine tasting in the intimate and inviting wine bar. Rusty Grape Vineyards poured in January. Who’ll be behind the bar next? Latte da’s wine bar is open ’til 10 pm Thur-Sat featuring a wine-friendly appetizer menu to pair with their unique vino selection. Bonus: All wines are available to purchase by the bottle for take away.
Niche-a wine & art bar– New bubbles to pair with a new cheese. Something’s always going on at this wine bar featuring 30+ pours available six days a week with a staff who knows their wine. All set in an unpretentious atmosphere displaying local art. An inventory of over 160 bottles also available to take away. Live entertainment every Saturday night.
Willem’s on Main features 50% off bottles of wine under $40 on Tuesdays to pair with inspired-cuisine like crepes with pesto and arugula salad.
Willem’s on Main – Feb 14—Planning a delish 3-course Valentine’s Day Dinner (open for brunch, too) including grilled rib eye, pan-seared rockfish and sautéed potato gnocchi as entrée choices. 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. With the recent addition of spirits, they now have brunch cocktails like Grapefruit Gin Fizz.
North Vancouver
Farrar’s Bistro – Sat, Feb 14—Roasted rack of lamb or shrimp linguini being offered for Valentine’s dinner. Reservations encouraged. Updates in the bar turned out nice. If you haven’t been to this great Felida neighborhood restaurant that touts ‘comfort food with a flair’ as its motto (I.e. patty melt on rye, beef wellington with a brandy peppercorn sauce), it’s time to check it out. Happy hour 3:30-6 pm. Complement some small plates with a velvety cabernet sauvignon or herbaceous sauvignon blanc.
Fred Meyer Salmon Creek – Fri & Sat from 3-6 pm wine steward, Kent Gallegos, routinely pairs two wines with Murray’s cheeses. Weather and season dictate his selections.
Hudson’s Bar and Grill – A largely Washington, Oregon and California-inspired wine list with a selection of three by-the-bottle wines rotated on a monthly basis. Inside the Heathman Lodge near Westfield Shopping Center, enjoy a glass of Washington Chardonnay with a plate of sautéed mussels or a glass of Barnard Griffin Cabernet Merlot with a meatloaf sandwich while warming up fireside under the massive Northwest logs during ‘Hudson’s Hour’ from 4-6 pm.
Total Wine & More – Every Fri, 4-8 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm complimentary wine tastings are offered at this beverage store located by Westfield Shopping Mall. Tasting beer and spirits, as well. Check out their calendar for upcoming special event tastings and classes which may include a fee.
Wine steward, Shawn Martin’s commitment to local wines is evident in his terrific end cap featuring Bethany Vineyards, Koi Pond Cellars and Three Brothers Vineyard at the Orchards Fred Meyer.
Fred Meyer Orchards – Fri, 2-5 pm & Sat, 1-5 pm wine steward, Shawn Martin, hosts a two to three-wine tasting that he pairs with Murray’s cheeses and focuses on lesser-known wines to broaden his customers’ wine catalog. Shawn’s commitment to local wines is evident in his terrific end cap featuring Bethany Vineyards, Koi Pond Cellars and Three Brothers Vineyard.
Village Vineyard – Sat, Feb 14—This beautiful winery reopens from their winter break to join the Clark County Wine Country Valentine’s Weekend Tour . Stop by for a tasting and stay for a glass of wine paired with some home-made chocolates and live music from 2-6 pm in their lovingly-appointed living room. Folks are invited to bring munchies to snack on while enjoying some adult down time. Normal tasting room hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm.
North County
Confluence Vineyards and Winery – Sat, Feb 14-Sun, Feb 15—Part of the county-wide Wine, Chocolates & Roses Valentine’s weekend tour. They’ll have vendors, live music & new releases, as well. Open this Sat & Sun noon-5 pm tasting the bold and beautiful Rhone and Bordeaux reds Confluence is known for. Occasional live music in their festively-decorated and heated tent.
Koi Pond Cellars – Feb 14 & 15—Joining forces with Rusty Grape Vineyards and Bethany Vineyard for the Clark County Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate weekend with a bus tour. Featured chocolatier: Killa Bites with cake bombs and biscotti treats. Live music every Saturday night from 6-8 pm and vin chaud glasses continue to be featured. New releases-a 2013 sauvignon blanc and 2012 merlot. Mural and artwork by resident artist, Micah Boylan, grace the walls. Happy hour Wed & Thur from 4-7 pm. Open Wed-Sun.
Gougér Cellars – Fri, Feb 13—Sharon’s Paint and Pour will once again present a no-experience-necessary paint night from 6-8 pm, this time with a Valentine’s twist. Sharon provides all supplies and the first glass of bubbly is on her! All for $40 per person. Reservations required. Sat, Feb 14 & Sun Feb 15—Pair homemade pots de crème with whipped cream and strawberries and powdered sugar & cinnamon-dusted chocolate ebelskivers with an outstanding wine lineup. While you’re there, congratulate him on the two recent medals earned at the San Diego International Wine Competition, making every red still wine at Gougér a medal winner. Try his PLATINUM-winning 2010 Petite Sirah. Tasting room open Wed-Sun.
Simple Elegance will be whipping up decadent baked goods, some with cabernet frosting, at Bethany Vineyard & Winery this coming Valentine’s weekend.
Bethany Vineyard – Feb 14 & 15—Joining forces with Koi Pond Cellars and Rusty Grape Vineyards for the Clark County Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate weekend with a bus tour. Simple Elegance will be whipping up decadent baked goods, some with cabernet frosting. Tasting their consistently elegant wines Fri and Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm., With Bethany’s current wine list of 21 offerings, you’d be hard-pressed not to find a bottle for every palate. A couple of my favs are Walt’s 2013 3 Dog White and 2012 259th St. Cuvée.
Three Brothers Vineyard – Winemaker, Dan Andersen, was recently featured here. Try their two new releases—2011 Sono La Vite and 2011 Brethren Cuvée. Look for an expansion of outdoor seating in 2015 and some other surprises. Tasting hours Fri 1-6 pm, Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Pomeroy Cellars – Thurs, Feb 5—Thursday happy hour. Enjoy $4.75 glass pours with a chicken taco dinner-for-purchase from 5-9 pm. Sat & Sun, Feb 14-15—Pairing everyday chocolates to take the mystery out of serving wines with this favorite ingredient. On the weekends, come try Dan’s terrific line-up including his rhubarb or blackberry wine. I’m a big fan of his 2012 Lucia 47 blend but his non-vintage Log House Red is also a terrific food-friendly choice . Open Thur, Sat and Sun.
Moulton Falls Winery – Come check out the new bar and table tops while enjoying some beautiful wines (the sangiovese is my fav), great food and friendly owners waiting for you in Yacolt. Joe and Susan don’t do anything half way. Recently Spike Walker, author of the book Working on the Edge which inspired the Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, has been appearing on Saturday nights to sign his books and talk with folks.Feb 14—Featuring a reservations-only $50 per couple Valentine’s Day package which includes an appetizer, dinner, dessert, glass of wine and live music. Each weekend enjoy live music by some of the area’s best musicians from 6-9 pm as well as Friday happy hour from 4-9pm ($5 on select glasses of wine) and pasta dinners available for purchase on Saturday nights in addition to their wood-fired pizza options and seasonally-inspired glühwein (German-inspired hot spiced wine).
Heisen House Vineyards – Feb 7—Reopening from their winter break. Feb 14 & 15—Excited to be a part of the Clark County Wine Country Valentine’s Weekend tour featuring chocolates and chocolate-making demonstrations by Liv-Eat alongside their boutique wines. Normal hours: Sat noon-6 pm, Sun noon-5 pm.
Olequa Cellars – Sat & Sun, Feb 14-15 & Sat, Feb 28—Wine maker, Brian Tansy, has a current lineup of 6 wines, including his 2011 Syrah. His charming tasting room is “generally open the second and fourth Saturday of each month” with private tastings of his beautiful boutique wines welcome.
Battle Ground Produce – The owner of Battle Ground Produce, Loren, knows his wine and enjoys offering complimentary tastings to customers most Fridays from 4-7 pm. Andreas, Rayne and Scott pour with insight, passion and friendly banter. There’s usually something for the beer lover, as well.
Rusty Grape Vineyards – Feb 14 & 15—Joining forces with Bethany Vineyards and Koi Pond Cellars for the Clark County Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate weekend with a bus tour. They’ve added paninis and wood-fired truffle chips to their menu and feature a local charity to donate Wednesday sales proceeds to. Live music Wed-Sat from 7-9 pm. The tasting room has undergone a lot of remodeling but open for business through it all. 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. Fridays in February are Free Dinner Friday while supplies last with a $20 wine purchase. Something’s always going on at the Grape. Open Wed-Sun.
Emanar Cellars – Be entertained by local guitarists from 6-8 pm this Fri & Sat while enjoying a rotating selection of can’t-go-wrong Spanish reds. This weekends’ local wine spotlight is Mouton Falls Siouxon Red. Congratulate Richard & Mar as one of three finalists for 2014 Battle Ground Business of the Year. Open Thur-Sat from 4-9 pm.
Pasta GiGi’s – Feb 14—A special Valentine’s Day menu, including stuffed beef tenderloin, has been created and live music will romance sweethearts. Reservations recommended. Kathy & Chef Paul are always creating inspired, fresh Italian food like stuffed zucchini and warm spinach salad sprinkled with bacon and blue cheese crumbles to pair with their pleasing wine list.
C’est La Vie Crêperie – Enjoy Keri’s Friday night social hour with a special food and drink menu every Friday from 4-8 pm. 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 black forest French toast and French onion soup Friday. Très bon. Open Tue-Sat 9 am-3 pm with additional hours from 4-8 pm on Fridays.
East County
Vinotopia – Located inside Cascade Park’s Cinetopia, Vinotopia received Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence five years straight. Recently featured here. 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 live music from 6-10 pm every Sat in their dining room and you have a no-fail date night.
BevMo! – Fri 4-7 pm & Sat 2-5 pm, 5 tastings, always complimentary unless otherwise indicated. Presiding over the pouring could be the very pleasant and cheerful, Anna, accompanied by manager, Kristin. Low key, comfortable atmosphere.
Whole Foods – Beer & wine specialist, Kamram, hosts beer or wine tastings Sat from 1-4 pm. Also tasting on Friday evenings from 4-8 pm but it’s typically beer-focused.
New Seasons Market – Thu, Feb 5—First Thursday from 4-6:30 pm including food & wine samplings and live music. Fri, Feb 6—Pouring Hawkins Cellar from 4-6 pm. Sat, Feb 7-Pacific NW organic wines from 2-4 pm. Fri, Feb 13— Chocolate & wine pairings from 1-5 pm. Sat, Feb 14—Sample sparklings, chocolate & cheeses from 11 am-5 pm. Fri, Feb 27—Featuring Burnt Bridge Cellars from 4-6 pm.
Fred Meyer Fisher’s Landing – Every Fri & Sat from 2-5 pm wine steward, Ernie Jones, aims for two tastings with occasional Murray’s cheese pairings.
Roots Restaurant & Bar– Valentine’s Weekend—A special menu will be featured including oysters Rockefeller and lobster risotto. Reservations recommended. My recent pan-seared salmon with beluga lentils and beets would’ve paired beautifully with a 2012 Boedecker Pinot Noir were it not a working lunch. 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 – Sat, Feb 14—Celebrating Valentine’s weekend along with the other Clark County wineries but also hosting a reservation-only prime rib or stuffed chicken dinner along with live music by local musician Wade Hendrix. Hosting a dinner every Friday night with local, live music that begins at 6 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 – Fri, Feb 6—Discounted wine specials for Camas First Friday. February should see the return of Sunday night wine flight and rumor has it that may roll over into Mondays, as well. Come out and enjoy this classic-style wine and cocktail lounge with live torch singers every Fri and Sat night beginning at 8 pm. You might even hear Santana or Diana Ross’s keyboardist. It’s been know to happen!
Flutes & Rocks Lounge – Formerly Krystal’s Champagne Lounge – Recently reopened after a remodel and rebranding to better incorporate their thoughtful selection of spirits. Feb 6— Ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 pm during Camas First Fridays. Enjoy sparklings from California, high-end Champagnes by the glass, wines and beers paired with an artisan cheese plate or charcuterie platter. Open Tues-Sat.
The Puffin Café has a limited, but Columbia Valley-focused, wine selection except for the 2009 Puffin brand Oregon Pinot Noir—with proceeds of each bottle sale going to the Haystack Rock Awareness Project to support puffins in Cannon Beach.
The Puffin Café floats along the port in Washougal. They have a limited wine selection but focus on the Columbia Valley except for the 2009 Puffin brand Oregon Pinot Noir—with proceeds of each bottle sale going to the Haystack Rock Awareness Project to support puffins in Cannon Beach. This place is the North Bank’s answer to Margaritaville. The crew is terrific, he menu is full of culinary surprises and who doesn’t want to feel an island vibe in the middle of winter (with toasty indoor seating, of course).
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Savor, Sip and Sojourn 