A Celebration of Culinary Excellence with Acclaimed Chefs and Over 200 Wineries This March
February 17, 2026 (Seattle, WA) — Media Registration is now open for Taste Washington, the Pacific Northwest’s premier celebration of wine, food, and place.
The highly anticipated lineup is finalized for the 2026 event, featuring an impressive gathering of acclaimed chefs and world-class winemakers showcasing Washington’s culinary heritage and diverse wine scene. This year, attendees can look forward to a lineup that includes top talent such as Chef Kristi Brown (Communion), Chef Melissa Miranda (Wild Cat’s Catering), and Chef Bill Jeong (Paju).
“Taste Washington is an opportunity to experience the very best of our region with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the creative community behind it all,” said Sam Minkoff, President of SE Productions. “SE Productions is thrilled to bring guests together to celebrate the richness and diversity of Washington’s food and wine scene,” added Cassie Hendrickson, Vice President of SE Productions.
Wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy exceptional selections from over 200 Washington wineries during the Grand Tasting and various events throughout the festival.
“We are excited to gather Washington’s wine and culinary communities at Taste Washington,” said Kristina Kelley, Executive Director of the Washington State Wine Commission. “We’re honoring a tradition that brings our makers, growers, and chefs together to showcase the artistry of one the world’s most diverse agriculture regions. Community is what wine is all about, and there’s no better time to experience it than this March at Taste Washington.”
EVENT OVERVIEW:
The Grand Tasting
The centerpiece of Taste Washington, the Grand Tasting features over 200 wineries and bites from 75 acclaimed restaurants, including Chef Flippo Fiori (Due Cucina), Chef Isaiah Ruffin (Pizza by Ruffin), Chef Bill Jeong (Paju), and Ramie Chefs Trinh and Thai Nguyen, with live cooking demonstrations and interactive activities like Bubbles & Bingo.
Date: Saturday, March 21 – Sunday, March 22
Location: Lumen Field Event Center
Time: 1:00 – 5:30 p.m. VIP ticket holders gain early access at 1:00 p.m.. GA ticket holders enter at 2:00 p.m.
Participating Winery and Restaurants list
The Seminars
Three wine seminars highlight the creativity and diversity of Washigton wine. Key disvussions will be leed by industry leaders Ray Isle,Maryam Ahmed, and Washington native Kyle MacLachlan.
The Fresh Factor: Brightness in Washington Wine
Explores a new wave of site-driven, freshness-focused wines through rare and small-lot selections
Moderator: Maryam Ahmed, Maryam + Company
The Wines That Inspired Us: A Comparative Tasting
An intimate comparative tasting pairing Washington wine with the benchmark wines that helped define their approach to winemaking
Moderator: Ray Isle, Food & Wine Magazine
The Shape of Syrah: From Rocks to Red Mountain
Examines Syrah’s expressive range across Washington’s diverse growing regions.
Moderator: Kyle MacLachlan, Pursued by Bear
Date: Saturday, March 21
Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Embassy Suites Pioneer Square, King Street Ballroom
Pacific Standard
The event highlights Washington’s seafood, pairing fresh dishes with local wines, featuring notable chefs Matthew Lewis (Where Ya At Matt), Aaron Tekulve (Surrell), and Han Lee with Sugo Hand Roll, celebrating the flavors of the region through culinary creativity.
The New Vintage
A Friday night soirée with bites from top chefs including Chef Kristi Brown (Communion), Cody Westerfield (De La Soil) and Melissa Miranda (Wild Cat’s), signature cocktails, and selections from leading Washington wine producers. The event promises a dance party with DJ Supreme La Rock.
Media Credential Registration is accepting applications. Apply here for access to cover the event
and tickets for Taste Washington can be purchased at Taste Washington
About Washington State Wine Commission
The Washington State Wine Commission (WSWC) represents every licensed winery and wine grape grower in Washington State. Guided by an appointed board, WSWC provides a marketing platform to raise positive awareness of the Washington State wine industry and generate greater demand for its wines. Funded almost entirely by the industry through assessments based on grape and wine sales, WSWC is a state government agency, established by the legislature in 1987. To learn more, visit washingtonwine.org.
About SE Productions
SE Productions, renowned for creating memorable events such as ‘Field To Table,’ ‘Sumo + Sushi,’ and ‘Bacon Eggs & Kegs,’ has established itself as a leader in crafting unique experiences. With a rich background in event production, SE Productions founders Sam Minkoff and Cassie Hendrickson have been pivotal in shaping Seattle’s food & beverage festival scene since 2013. SE Productions has brought together a vibrant community of creatives, festival producers, food enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers. This collaboration has not only fostered exceptional partnerships but has also underscored the importance of sharing unforgettable experiences with others. For more information, visit seproductions.us.
Dining and Cooking