A few weeks ago, on April 24th, one of the most exceptional wine pairing events took place at Frameless, where we had the opportunity to closely discover the taste of wines from Washington State. Hosted by Washington State Tourism in collaboration with Visit Seattle and The Port of Seattle and Delta Airlines, this exclusive event promised an immersive journey into the essence of Washington’s wine culture.
Nestled within the renowned Frameless exhibition, attendees were treated to a sensory feast unlike any other. As vibrant images of Washington’s scenic wonders surrounded the room, guests embarked on a culinary journey, perfectly paired with the finest wines the region has to offer.
This event was more than just a wine and gastronomic delight! Through the lens of Frameless, guests were transported to the heart of Washington State, experiencing the rich world of wine. It was a reminder that even in the bustling city of London, the joy of exploring wine culture knows no limits.
Guiding us through this enchanting escapade was none other than Chantelle Lusebrink, the Tourism Development Manager at the Port of Seattle Tourism Board. With her warm demeanor and expert knowledge, Chantelle painted a vivid picture of Washington’s diverse terroir and its wine scene. We were captivated by her stories, falling under the spell of this enchanting destination.
The centerpiece of the event was, undoubtedly, the wine tasting experience. Carefully selected by sommeliers from The Ritz and The Dorchester and paired with dishes crafted to embody the DNA of the region, attendees were treated to a selection of 13 Washington State wines. Each sip showcased the region’s pioneering winemakers and their innovative approach to viniculture. Against the backdrop of 360-degree footage capturing Washington’s awe-inspiring landscapes, every glass offered a glimpse into this dynamic wine region.
About the Region
Nestled between the Cascade Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean lies the diverse landscape of Washington State, offering a tapestry of climates and terrains that shape its renowned wine regions. The west side of the Cascade Mountains boasts cooler temperatures and abundant rainfall, nurturing lush forests and iconic volcanoes. In contrast, the eastern side unfolds into arid deserts and rolling hills adorned with fragrant pine forests.
Washington’s grape growing regions are truly born of fire and ice. The daily temperature fluctuations are surprisingly contrasting compared to the rest of the world’s wine regions. The temperatures in Columbia Valley cool down rapidly during harvest. Thus, the warm days during the summer time result in matured fruit flavours, while the significant daily temperature changes and swift cooling during harvesting aid in maintaining the inherent acidity.
About the Wines
Amidst this breathtaking backdrop, Washington hosts over 1,000 wineries, each offering a unique tasting experience that reflects the region’s terroir diversity. From the vibrant markets of Seattle to the tranquil coastal towns, culinary enthusiasts can delight in locally sourced gourmet creations, perfectly paired with the state’s exceptional wines. With some of the most dramatic temperature fluctuations globally, Washington’s winemakers craft wines that marry the richness of ripe fruit flavors with the crisp acidity reminiscent of Old World elegance, making every sip a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The event presented us with an opportunity to indulge in the finest of wines, such as the exquisite Syncline Scintillation 2017. Paired with delicate Columbia River Smoked Sturgeon, Horseradish Lemon Pearls, and Grain Crouton, it provided a sensory journey like no other. As we ventured into the Volcanic Range part, the Reynvaan In The Rocks 2021 emerged, its robust notes harmonizing with the tantalizing flavors of Prickly Pear, Dandelion Leaves, Black Lava Salt, and Warm Blue Corn Tortilla. Yet, these were merely glimpses of the treasures the evening had in store, including the captivating L’Ecole Merlot Estate 2021, Cadence Bel Canto 2017, and SMWE Eroica Riesling 2022. Each sip and bite unveiled the unique nature of this destination. The wines from Washington State are delicious and reflective of the region’s DNA. This is a region full of promise and any wine enthusiast, who enjoys the art of wine, food and outdoor activities, there is no better place to visit in the US right now.
Ready to embark on your own Washington State adventure? Discover the captivating charm of the Pacific Northwest’s wine culture and scenic landscapes. Start planning your journey today and experience the magic firsthand!