LAKE COUNTY >> The 2015 Lake County Wine Adventure weekend kicks off with a gala opening party on Friday, May 15 at the Marymount Castle in Lucerne. The event features Lake County wines, appetizers prepared by Running Creek Casino, music and, of course, stunning views from the historic facility.
The opening party is a speakeasy — the password is “wine” — and warm up for the weekend of adventure.
Sponsored by the Lake County Winery Association (LCWA), the Speakeasy will be open from 6 to 9 p.m. on May 15. The Marymount Castle is located at 3700 Country Club Drive, Lucerne.
The Passport portion of the Wine Adventure on Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17 offers a unique opportunity to explore the region and enjoy the Lake County wine experience. Twenty-six Lake County wineries will open their doors to welcome adventurers from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wineries will offer special wine tastings paired with foods to showcase the flavors of the wines.
Some locations will also offer barrel tastings, live music, and products by local artisans. The best winery contest started in 2014 will return again this year with an opportunity to vote in three categories. Many wineries will also be offering specials on wine during the weekend.
Relay for Life is returning as charity partner for the 2015 Lake County Wine Adventure. Raffle tickets will be sold during the weekend for a chance to win a very special Wine and Dine prize package. In addition to an instant cellar of Lake County wines, the winner will receive gift certificates for dinner at selected Lake County restaurants and a wine tour for four donated by Frontier Wine Tours. Participating restaurants include the Saw Shop Gallery & Bistro, the Blue Wing Saloon, Wild Creek Restaurant at Running Creek Casino, Park Place Restaurant, and the Manzanita Restaurant at Twin Pine Casino. Tickets will be $5 each or 5 for $20. All proceeds will go to the Lake County Relay for Life.
Sponsors for the 2015 Lake County Wine Adventure include Twin Pine Casino and Hotel, Lake County, Sutter Lakeside Hospital, and Riley Cabs.
Tickets for the Castle Speakeasy are $55 and advanced reservations are required. Tickets for the two-day passport adventure good Saturday and Sunday are $45 in advance or $50 at the door. The Sunday only passport is $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
Designated drivers participate for free and will get to enjoy the food and fun as they help make it a safe event for everyone. Tickets for the Castle Speakeasy and Passport Adventure can be purchased many local wineries, the Lake County Chamber of Commerce or on-line at www.lakecountywineries.org.
LCWA works to promote the wines of Lake County’s high elevation region. Membership is open to wineries, winegrape growers, and individuals or businesses interested in promoting the Lake County wine industry.
For more information about upcoming events, sponsorship, or membership opportunities, call 707 357-5237 or visit www.lakecountywineries.org.
