One of my favorite wineries to visit is Washington's Chateau Ste. Michelle. There are wineries, and then there are wineries.

Chateau Ste. Michelle is not only Washington's oldest winery, but it's brimming with craftsman-style architecture on 105 wooded acres, a stellar outdoor concert series, as well as a Provencal-type winery Chateau. And then, there's the wine itself.

From their top-notch Rieslings (I'm a big fan of Eroica), Gewurztraminer, and Ice Wine, to limited release reds such as Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Grenache, Chateau Ste. Michelle makes excellent wines that aren't too hard on the budget. 

On Saturday, February 7th, Snowbird Resort will host a wine pairing dinner at the Steak Pit restaurant featuring Chateau Ste. Michelle wines and head winemaker Bob Bertheau. The evening begins at 6:30 with a reception - open-face pork bites plus Korean-marinated ribeye lettuce wraps and Chateau Ste. Michelle Pinot Gris - followed by dinner at 7 PM. 

The tentative four-course menu by Executive Chef Abe Rainey, plus Chateau Ste. Michelle wine pairings, is as follows: 

Salmon Cake with Frisee & Bacon Vinaigrette + Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, 2012, Columbia Valley

Lamb Chop with Pomegranate, Lavender & Microgreens + Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011, Horse Heaven Hills

“Prime” Filet Mignon with Bacon, Roasted Leeks, Shallots and White Cheddar Potato Cake + Artist Series, Meritage, 2011, Columbia Valley

Fromage et Fruits + Harvest Select Sweet Riesling, 2013, Columbia Valley

The cost for the four-course dinner and wine pairings is $119 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Dinner only (no wine) is $75. 

Seating is limited. For reservations, call 801-933-2260.