Yakima, Wash.—Yakima Valley’s annual Spring Barrel Tasting weekend, set for April 26-28, 2013 now features an enhanced visitor experience. The new Spring Barrel Tasting Wine & Dine program includes wine-themed dinners at participating Yakima Valley restaurants from April 24th to the 28th.
“Incorporating local restaurants into our event weekend showcases the quality of dining available in the Yakima Valley, during the largest wine event on our calendar. So this takes the Yakima Valley wine country experience to a new level,” says Barbara Glover, executive director of the Wine Yakima Valley association.
Culinary tourism has reached a tipping point and become a serious attraction for visitors to the winery-filled communities of the Yakima Valley. “It’s a perfect tool for economic and community development because visitors try and buy local foods and wines,” says Sean Hawkins, economic development director for the Yakima Valley.
The program is sponsored by Wine Yakima Valley and the City of Yakima. “Our goal is to start small and let the concept grow naturally,”says Hawkins.
Participating restaurants will be offering Wine & Dine specials beginning April 24, and will run them through the weekend. The early days are designed specifically for locals to come enjoy the pairings of great meals and local wines together. Venues include Second Street Grill, 5 North, Café Melange, Carousel Restaurant & Bistro, and Mojave Restaurant at Desert Wind.
Wine & Dine Program
Participating restaurants have put together delightful dining combinations featuring Yakima Valley wines. Wine Yakima Valley Premier Pass holders can bring their Pass to the restaurant for validation and receive a limited edition wine glass with each meal purchased. It features a new logo celebrating our wine region’s 30th anniversary. The Yakima Valley appellation was officially established in the spring of 1983.
For more information on participating restaurants and dining menus please visit Wine Yakima Valley’s website.