Renton, WA— The Renton Chamber of Commerce’s annual Wine Walk turned The Landing into a series of bustling tasting rooms and popups on Saturday, April 18. A cheerful crowd gathered at the check-in booths before the 2 p.m. start.
At check-in, participants picked up a complimentary tote bag, a tasting glass, and a map of the afternoon’s stops. The map was easy to follow. Each stop was clearly listed along with any bonus treats waiting inside.
A dozen wineries poured their selections at shops and restaurants across The Landing. Tinte Cellars and Momento Cellars set up at Toreros, where guests also picked up frozen margarita shooters. Martedi Winery poured at Expedia Cruises. Danner Boots hosted a trio of tables featuring Cairdeas Winery, Whitley Woodworking Co., and Adeline & Ember. At Dough Zone, Sin Banderas added to the space with bonus pours of sake and Fremont ale.
Other pairings kept things creative. Drum Roll Wine poured at Color Me Mine. Nine Hats Wines set up at Trenchers, where warm empanadas made a tasty companion to the tasting. The Bottle shop welcomed Lost River Winery (hosted by The Wine Alley), and also brought together Naches Heights Vineyard, Wits Cellars, and Willow Run under their roof.
Between sips, vendors invited tasters to join their wine clubs, a way to keep the flavors of the afternoon going long after the event wrapped. Live music added to the relaxed mood. Singer-songwriter Cyd Smith performed through the afternoon, including a warm take on the classic “Shake Sugaree” that drifted across the walkways.
The Tax Free Bottle Shop ran a raffle with a lineup of prizes that included wines, bath and body items, bags, and other accessories.
The best part of the afternoon was the people. Vendors, organizers, and participants traded friendly conversation and tasting notes at every stop, turning a simple walk between shops into a neighborly gathering.
The Wine Walk wrapped up at 6 p.m.
Disclosure: Renton Signal is a member of the Renton Chamber of Commerce.