Looking to indulge with intention? Casual sippers and oenophiles alike can enjoy the state's largest wine-centric charitable event August 16 at Chateau Ste. Michelle, devoted to celebrating local varietals and with proceeds benefitting Seattle Children's Hospital and WSU Wine Science research. 

MEET THE MAKERS 

Not only can you take your pick of more 100 Washington wines, in most cases the wine is being poured by the winemakers themselves. If you're lucky, you'll get the inside scoop on origin stories, winemaking styles, and maybe learn a secret or two about what makes the wine you're sipping so special. 

PERFECT PAIRINGS 

While we all love a good charcuterie platter, great wines deserve equally elevated culinary pairings. The chefs at Tulalip Resort and Casino are bringing the heat—this year, the menu is themed "Taking it to the Streets - Al Fresco International," with each food tent offering a different international bites, from camembert stuffed crepes to Belizian stewed chicken (don't forget dessert: think rum and coconut paletas and matcha cream puffs). 

BID YOUR HEART OUT 

If you really came to play (or buy, rather), the Barrel Auction is your chance to taste barrel samples and be one of five winning bidders to secure a case of a future release wine before it’s available to the public—for a few lucky wine lovers, these five cases are the only ones of their kind. Here's how it works: Choose from 30 wineries and taste the wines being offered. Then, talk with the winemakers about their wines, the aging process, the grapes, and ask the winemaker to explain how the grapes might change before they are bottled. After you've made your decision, place your bid. 

Veteran Seattle Children’s Hospital supporters Bender and Molly from 106.1 KISS FM Seattle take the stage again this year as emcees to moderate the Barrel Auction and keep the peace once the bids begin to fly! This year, they're bringing along DJ Phase, Seattle DJ/remixer/radio producer for iHeart media.

If you'd rather enjoy sooner than later, place your bid at the Silent Auction instead. Choose from a number of unique wine packages and experiences, spanning a collection of wines from a specific Washington AVA to an exclusive lunch on the grounds of a local vineyard.

EVERYONE'S A WINNER 

There are plenty of ways to win big at the picnic, whether you’re trying your hand at Seattle Met's Wine Bottle Ring Toss, the John L. Scott Foundation Wine Pull, or buying a ticket to win a cruise with Holland America. 

For a full menu and rundown of who's pouring what, check out the Auction of Washington Wines website.