It’s officially growing season here in the Pacific Northwest, and Washington’s oldest grape-growing region is already hard at work preparing for those delicious incoming grapes. Nearly 40% of the state’s yearly wine production is made from Yakima Valley grapes, and the region is also home to roughly one-third of the state’s vineyard acreage.
A significant number of multigenerational growers and winemakers call the area home, so we know these grapes are in excellent hands here in the cradle of Washington wine. In preparation for the upcoming season, plenty of wine country events are coming up this spring in Yakima, just waiting to quench our thirst.
Rosé Release Party at Owen Roe
309 Gangl Rd., Wapato
509.877.0454
Owen Roe Winery in Wapato will be hosting their first-ever Rosé Release Party on April 2 from 2 until 5 p.m. They’re inviting all to join them and be the first to sample their 2021 Rosé of 100% Sangiovese. They will also have live music from Tom and Jerry with Die Brüder, crafted food truck, and lawn games like Rosé and Croquet.
Tickets start at just $10 for Wine Club Members, and they can purchase up to four tickets per membership, while additional guests or non-club member tickets start at $15. The winery can’t wait to get the party started and hope to see you there.
Speckled Blue Bird Paint & Sip at Wit Cellars
505 Cabernet Ct., Prosser
509.786.1311
Spring will be greeted at Wit Cellars on April 8 with their special Paint and Sip from 6 until 8 p.m. For this Paint and Sip, they will be painting an image of a speckled blue bird’s nest with eggs nestled safely inside. During the painting class, you will get a chance to enjoy your favorite Wit Cellars wines along with your friends if you’d like to invite them along.
The cost is $40 and includes step-by-step instructions and all paint supplies. So, take a sip and let your creativity flow.
Book Club Night at Freehand Cellars
420 Windy Point Dr., Wapato
509.866.4664
If you’re looking for a glass of wine and an excellent book-driven discussion, then look no further than Freehand Cellars’ Book Club Night. They’re inviting all those who are interested in joining them on April 14 from 6 until 7:30 p.m. to discuss their next book, “The Good Hand” and enjoy a nice glass of wine along with it.
Tickets are only $25 and cover the cost of the book shipped to you and the glass of wine the night of the gathering. They hope to see you there!
Spring Barrel Weekend at Yakima Valley Vintners
1606 W Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima
509.574.4794
There will also be another Rosé unveiling party in April at Yakima Valley Vintners. Their Spring Barrel Weekend takes place on April 29 from noon until 7 p.m. and on April 30 from noon until 5 p.m.
During the weekend, they will be unveiling their Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé while also having live music from Yakima Valley College student Austin Pledger. They’re super excited about the event and hoping for a sunny weekend as they’re planning to have the patio open to enjoy the spring weather.
First Friday Happy Hour at Dineen Vineyards
2980 Gilbert Rd., Zillah
509.829.6897
First Friday Happy Hour will be held at Dineen Vineyards on May 6 from noon until 7 p.m. This is a free, family-friendly event put on by Dineen Vineyards, and even the family dog is welcomed at the shindig! There will be live entertainment, light bites, and specialty glass pours so all who attend can enjoy a wide variety of wines to taste.
The live music will start at 5 p.m., with The Thomas Creek Band stepping up to take the stage and set the mood.
Zane Lamprey’s Laughs and Drafts Comedy Tour at Wanderland
260 N Bonair Rd., Zillah
Zane Lamprey is an award-winning travel show host and comedian and is known as the guy who gets paid to travel worldwide and drink. On May 6, he will be doing just that at the Zane Lamprey’s Laughs and Drafts Comedy Tour at the Wandering Hop Brewery in Zillah.
He will be performing stand-up comedy at this show based on his experiences while shooting “Three Sheets” and “Drinking Made Easy.” The Wandering Hop taproom will be waiting for those who attend the event with their specialty beers, wines, ciders, and food for all to enjoy.
With so many wine tasting events in Yakima this spring, it’s almost impossible to decide, but remember not to drink and drive no matter your choice! Stay safe, Yakima community, and happy wine tasting!
