Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/644745
14 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | MARCH / APRIL 2016 Washington Wine Month returns Guest chefs and visiting vintners slated for Winemaker Dinner A pril showers bring May flowers, but March brings something much more exciting to Washington—wine month! At the WAC, that means special wine flights in Torchy's as well as the annual Taste Washington Winemaker Dinner. One little catch: This year's dinner actually takes place in early April, a change made to accommodate Easter. The Winemaker Dinner annually brings guest chefs, sommeliers, and vintners to the Club to celebrate and enjoy some of the state's best wines. This year's dinner is set for 6 pm on Saturday, April 2, in the Crystal Ballroom. Whether you love wine or just great food, you'll want to reserve for an evening featuring guest chefs Paul Duncan of Ray's Boathouse, Pat Donahue of Anthony's, and Jeff Maxfield from SkyCity restaurant atop the Space Needle. They'll team with WAC Executive Chef Eric Floyd to prepare a multicourse meal paired with Washington vintages from visiting winemakers. WAC member and longtime attendee Bettina Stix considers the Winemaker Dinner a unique occasion to celebrate the best of our state's culinary scene. "It feels special to be a part of this," she says. "It's one of the great occasions to celebrate the Pacific Northwest." Visiting winemakers will discuss the winemaking process, shedding light on how climate, soil, terrain and tradition all contribute to the final glass. "It's a special opportunity to hear insights from winemakers and chefs," WAC member and dinner attendee Roberta Goodnow says. It's also a great opportunity to form new friendships. "I always meet friends from the Club at the Winemaker Dinner," Bettina says. "It's like a family." But don't wait to start enjoying some of the state's best. Torchy's is offering a special flight for the month of March. Enjoy Substance Cabernet Sauvignon, Auclair Sauvignon Blanc, and Anew Rosé by themselves or with pairings. March is also a great time to enjoy Thirsty Thursday in the WAC lobby. The event takes place on the first Thursday of most months. As such, it's set for 5–7 pm on Thursday, March 3. For even more tasting, reserve for the Taste Washington Grand Tasting, set for April 2–3 at CenturyLink Field Event Center. For more information, visit tastewashington.org. By Mae Jacobson, Associate Editor "It feels special to be a part of this. It's one of the great occasions to celebrate the Pacific Northwest." — BETTINA STIX J O H N B A N G ( 3 )