Aug 25, 2011
While I have been actively pursuing both a formal and informal education on wine, my knowledge of Washington beer has grown informally only – usually due to proximity to Bean or Ed while accompanying them to a beer event or sharing a fine repast at a pairing dinner. I enjoy both beer and wine, especially paired with food, but have never focused on the details of beer beyond the one in my hand,...
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Craft Beers of the Pacific Northwest for Mortals and Goddesses
Jan 31, 2011
Pretzel Crusted Pickle Pairing with Pike Brewing
Who knew that pretzels and pickles could create a lip smacking good beer and wine pairing? Midwestern natives like myself understand the attraction of fried pickles but it was the culinary creativity of my Washington friends that gifted me with this blissful pairing. Here at Washington Wine & Beer we started a tradition of celebrating each other during our respective birth months. Since we are all... read more
Sep 25, 2010
Fremont Oktoberfest 2010 – Four ‘other’ beers
The responsibility weighed heavy as I browsed the online list of beers expected at the Oktoberfest in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle this weekend. Bean, our beer palate guru, is in Spokane covering the Oktoberfest on the east side of Washington leaving me, beer palate noviciate, to taste and discuss beers alone. Having discussions with myself is usually not a problem. However, if it happens while I... read more
Sep 9, 2010
Paul Gregutt’s second edition-Washington Wines and Wineries
Even though I have had a pre-publication copy of the book in my hands since early July I have waited this long to write my thoughts about the second edition of Washington Wines and Wineries-The Essential Guide by Paul Gregutt. I could claim that the delay is because I wanted to ruminate about the new book and let my thoughts age and integrate like a great Washington wine. While that is true, another... read more
Aug 13, 2010
David Lake, Legendary Washington Winemaker and Vegetarian Matchmaker?
Earlier this summer, Bean invited a lucky few over to her front yard to participate in a blind tasting featuring Washington Rieslings and Syrahs she had received as samples. This was one of our Pair & Share wine gatherings so it was not quite a “blind” tasting. She revealed the varietals to provide us a clue about what food to bring. In a post to come Bean will reveal the wines we... read more
