First Wine Festival this weekend

A new local event gives you a chance to taste wines from 22 regional wineries and 6 local restaurants. On Saturday, the Chamber of Commerce launches a new event -- the Spring Wine Festival. 

This event is essentially a super wine tasting and Taste of Anacortes rolled into one.  For a ticket price of $30, attendees may sample great wines, nosh signature food dishes, and enjoy live music. The Spring Wine Festival will be at the Port of Anacortes warehouse at the foot of Commercial Ave.

The winery list includes such premium names as Woodward Canyon, Hightower, Gorman, Sleight of Hand, Andrew Will, and Dunham--a complete list is available at anacortes.org. Restaurants represented are Star Bar, Adrift, Cameron's, Deception Pass Cafe, Bellissima Trattoria, and Randy's Pier 61. Compass Wines will have the poured wine tastes in stock for purchase.
 
At the conclusion of the event, most of the restaurants (plus Majestic Inn & Spa) will be pairing up with selected wineries to offer "Winemaker Dinners," with special menus throughout the evening.
 
The chamber says their intent in offering this event is to address a slower "shoulder" period, bringing visitors to town and filling hotel rooms, restaurant seats, and supporting our merchants.  Any proceeds from the festival will be used for street beautification.
 
Tickets may be purchased from the chamber office, Compass Wines, or any of the participating restaurants.