Mixed Plate: Vino Morghulis - Wine Tasting in Westeros

SPOILER ALERT: a whole lotta folks die on the HBO series Game of Thrones. Glad we got that out of the way. But let us raise a glass, like the great Lannister Queen Cersei does (frequently), and honor those who have departed in typical Westeros style: bloody, violent, with a look of mortal terror on what's left of one's visage. What better way to honor the Old Gods and the New than a blind tasting of bold, vibrant red wines, made in Washington by the good folks at House EFESTĒ in the land of Woodinville? They were kind enough to not only provide me with a sample of these hearty Rhône-inspired reds, but a handy list of tasting notes to inspire a party that can only be called Game of  Rhônes (cue booming GoT theme). The Many-Faced God of Braavos would advise us in the ancient Valyrian tongue, Valar Morghulis (All Men Must Die), but to that I say, VINO MORGHULIS -- all men (and fair ladies) must drink! 

The Royal Family of EFESTĒ wines - Drinking is Coming! - Photo by Wasabi Prime

FoodTrek: In Search of the Elusive Golden Grape

Patience, Grasshopper... one food/wine event at a time. While I adhered to only 50% of the title at the Seattle Wine and Food Experience last weekend by sticking to food vs wine (blame a weak constitution that day), I made sure to make up for it this past Sunday at the 3rd Annual Golden Grape Awards at Willows Lodge, over in the wood-'hood of Woodinville. Plenty of local Washington wines to sip, with an award ceremony -- kind of like the Oscars... but way more fun.

Pour it on - sipping some winning wines at Golden Grape Awards - Photo by Wasabi Prime