RSSSpring Barrel Tasting -- Go forth and drink wine!
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KRIS HOLLAND/Yakima Herald-Republic Jodi Baker tastes a 2007 merlot at Silver Lake Winery in Zillah Sunday, April 20, 2008.
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Spring Barrel Tasting—Go forth and drink wine!Yakima Valley Wine Guide 2008Yakima Valley Wine Guide—Annual wine eventsAfter the wine, check out Delfeayo Marsalis at The SeasonsOther events: 10 Days Out
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More than 50 wineries throughout the Yakima Valley will be rolling out the barrels this weekend for Spring Barrel Tasting, one of the most popular wine tasting weekends in the Valley.
But before you hit the road, here are some wine tasting and winery touring tips to keep in mind:
* Bring a map (there's one conveniently located on Page 16). While there are blue signs posted along the major roads alerting you to nearby wineries, it's easy to get a little turned around in Wine Country, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
* It's OK to ask questions. If you're new to wine, tell the person in the tasting room and he or she will guide you through.
* Don't be in a hurry and don't try to do it all. The best idea is to pick four or five wineries to visit each day; that way you won't dull your palate or feel the need to rush through the experience.
* Be smart. Those "tastes" really add up, so know when you've had too much to drink. (Hint: Designate a sober driver in advance.)
* Remember to eat. Luckily, many wineries will be offering an array of tantalizing treats this weekend, but it's also a good idea to bring along some snacks. You can't go wrong with cheese, crackers and fruit.
* Also, drink plenty of water. And to help you hydrate, Hyatt Vineyards and Silver Lake at Roza Hills are working with Xi Beta, a chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, an international women's sorority, to provide bottled water on Saturday for a small donation to the nonprofit.
* Where's the party? If you're looking for the popular Spring Barrel Tasting Beach Party featuring local favorites The Blue Tropics, you can hula on up Vintage Road to Silver Lake, where the Blue Tropics will play their mix of tropical-pop and kicked-back blues from 1-6 p.m. Saturday. Another popular band Blind Lemon Pie will be playing at Hyatt Vineyard - 12-6 p.m. Saturday and 12-5 p.m. Sunday.
* Lastly, try at least one new place. We all have our favorite wineries, but don't let yourself get in a rut. Take a look at our hand-dandy wine guide and find someplace you've never been that looks like it's worth a taste.
Now, go forth and drink wine.
Cheers,
Kim Nowacki. Yakima Herald-Republic
If you go
WHAT: Spring Barrel Tasting.
WHEN: Today through Sunday.
WHERE: 50-plus wineries throughout the Yakima Valley.
HOW MUCH: Passes for Wine Yakima Valley participating wineries are available for $25 at Costco and other locations. A "reserve ticket" (wristband) includes a 15-ounce commemorative wine glass. Passes also can be purchased at the first participating winery. A pass waives the $5 tasting fee at most participating wineries, and may be good for discounts or additional benefits at others.
* For those wineries that are part of the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail, most do not charge a tasting fee, except for their reserve wines, and no ticket is required to visit these wineries. Several wineries are offering live music and art displays. Discounts and/or free reserve tastings are available with the purchase of a $5 passport at the participating wineries.
INFO: Wine Yakima Valley: www.wineyakimavalley.org or 800-258-7270. Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail: www.rattlesnakehills.com or 888-375-7498.
This story has been updated to correct erroneous information.
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