Wine Classes

After a 16+ year tenure at Bellingham Technical College, I have “retired” from teaching wine classes at this Whatcom County institution. During that time, it’s been an amazing overall experience to meet students, exchange information, and both pass along my knowledge and learn more about the world of wine.

This isn’t the end of my teaching, however. I’ll be looking at a few other options that may not involve a classroom, per se, but will still allow me to share my food and wine tasting experiences with you. These structured, yet more informal gatherings will come with a suggested donation to the Whatcom Beer & Wine Foundation, an organization of which I’m proud to be associated.

I’ll keep you posted… and thank you!

Dan

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Here’s what students who have taken Dan’s classes have said:

“Dan is a suberb instructor! He does not waste time; he is knowledgeable and friendly. This was a great class.”

“Perfect intro wine class. The wine industry should clone this guy.”

“Dan provides a ‘safe’ environment for all levels of wine enthusiasts. It’s a fun, easy-going class, perfect for a Saturday afternoon.”

“Definitely knowledgeable and passionate about his subject!”

“Dan’s classes R cool.”

CABERNET SAUVIGNON: KING OF REDS

Date: February 22, 2020  4:00 to 6:00 pm

Cabernet Sauvignon is the undisputed top-selling red wine varietal in the US. So what’s the appeal of this big, full-bodied red that makes it so popular? During this class we’ll do an in-depth analysis the of grape, explore the wine’s flavor profile and elements of taste, offer essential food-pairing suggestions, and discuss where in world (including Washington and California) you’ll find some of the best Cabernets out there.

We’ll also taste through a number of Cabernets – including a few in some different styles to demonstrate the grape’s versatility that may just surprise you.

Class fee of $69 includes materials, hearty appetizers, wine, and a souvenir wine glass.

THE NEW (AND IMPROVED) WALLA WALLA WINE SCENE

November 2, 2019    4:00 to 6:00 pm

Traveled to Walla Walla lately? It’s safe to say that over the past two decades this isolated town has achieved “rock star” status in the world of wine…exploding with over 125 wineries, great restaurants, and a full range of accommodations including a new resort.

We’ll take a look at the latest developments in the Walla Walla area while tasting a number of wines from some old favorites as well as several new kids on the block. We’ll also discuss the outreach of Walla Walla wineries to Western Washington, including those with closer-to-home tasting rooms in the Seattle/Woodinville area.

Class fee of $69 includes materials, wine, light appetizers and one of Dan’s highly sought-after and collectible wine glasses.

RIESLING, SAUVIGNON BLANC & PINOT GRIS: WASHINGTON VS. THE WORLD
May 4, 2019
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris: a trio of tasty white wines with medium to high acidity at their core and unlimited food-pairing potential. They’re an absolute must to have in your cellar year-round and highly recommended as “go-to wines” during the warmer spring and summer months.

During this class we’ll approach these varietals from a comparison standpoint, using Washington-produced wines as a challenger to their European counterparts. Side-by-side tastings will highlight the subtle, yet important differences in each wine’s flavors and overall character and give you a better idea of how and when to serve them.

$45 course fee includes appetizers, wine, class materials and souvenir wine glass.

PINOT NOIR AND ITS ALTERNATIVES
February 16, 2019
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Like it or not, Pinot Noir’s reputation as one of the best red wines you can serve with food is irrefutable.

This class will take an in-depth look at the grape’s history, its flavor profile, and wine regions that excel at producing it. We’ll also taste through a selection of Pinots – paired with a variety of food samples – as well as more affordable “Pinot alternatives,” such as Gamay and Barbera, which often display similar characteristics to Pinot Noir.

For Pinot lovers this is a must-attend class. For others, here’s an opportunity to learn more about this undeniably versatile wine. All-inclusive course fee of $45 covers food and wines samples, course materials and Dan’s highly collectible souvenir glass.

BIG, BOLD RED WINES
October 13, 2018
4:00 to 6:00 pm

During the fall and winter months, a big, bold red wine is often the adult beverage of choice. This class will take a behind-the-scenes look at what gives these wines their character and explain why you should continue to drink them.

We’ll taste through a variety of full-bodied wines such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Tannat, and discuss their flavor profiles and personalities. In addition, we’ll try them with a couple of potentially great food pairings: a hearty beef stew and a flourless chocolate decadence cake.

$45 course fee covers your food, wine, class materials and souvenir wine glass.

WINES & WINERIES FROM PROSSER
May 5, 2018
4:00 to 6:00 pm

The town of Prosser…on the cutting edge of the Washington wine industry? Yes! This once sleepy town located west of the Tri-Cities is now home to 30 wineries and tasting rooms.

This class will take an in-depth look at all things wine-related in and around the Prosser area including the must-see Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center. We’ll taste through a number of wines from wineries that call Prosser home while discussing travel tips and what to expect for those considering a visit.

THE 1% OF WASHINGTON WINES
February 17, 2018
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Did you know that just eight grapes account for 93% of the wine production in Washington?

This class will focus on the remaining minor grapes that make up less than 1% each of the State’s total. Some you’ve heard about, some you haven’t; either way, these up-and-coming varietals have plenty to offer in terms of unique flavor profiles and food-pairing potential. Taste through a number of samples while learning where to find them and when to serve them.

Course fee of $45 includes wine, light appetizers, materials, and Dan’s highly collectible wine glass!

HOST A WINE TASTING PARTY
October 14, 2017
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Have you ever considered hosting a wine tasting party? This relatively low-cost activity is perfect for upcoming holiday gatherings. We’ll cover plenty of ideas on how to prepare by selecting the proper theme, supplies, and stemware as well as serving techniques and hors d’oeuvres suggestions.

The class will both participate in and learn how to set up a blind tasting of six wines in which the labels are concealed, wines scored, and results revealed at the end of the event. Light appetizers will also be provided.

$45 course fee includes all food, wine, materials and, of course, the souvenir wine glass!

SPRINGTIME IS ROSÉ TIME!
April 22, 2017
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Versatile and affordable, Rosé wines have become an increasingly popular springtime beverage…although they can also be enjoyed any time of year.

Stunning colors, crisp acidity, and a range of sweetness levels from candy-apple to bone-dry are the hallmarks of Rosé wines. Learn how they’re made, how and when to serve them, and food pairing suggestions while tasting a number of Rosés from around the world; served in a souvenir wine glass along with perfectly paired light appetizers.

Course fee of $42 covers food, wine, course materials and includes a souvenir wine glass.

PRE-VALENTINES TASTING WITH CHAMPAGNE, RED WINE & CHOCOLATE
Date: February 11, 2017
4:00 to 6:00pm

Red wine and chocolate…the perfect combination, right? Not necessarily! We’ll discuss all the ins-and-outs of this much anticipated (and sometimes overrated) Valentine’s Day pairing while sampling red wines and a selection of chocolate treats prepared by a Bellingham chocolatier.

Also featured will be a tasting of Champagne and sparkling wine, including information about what defines each, how to tell the difference, serving techniques, what to look for when tasting, and food pairing suggestions.

Included in the $45 course fee are reference materials, food, wine, and souvenir wine glass.

SERVING WINE WITH (AND IN) YOUR FOOD
Saturday, October 8, 2016
3:30 to 6:00 pm

Take the guesswork out of pairing a wine with your meal! By focusing on the basic elements of taste for both food and wine, this class will make the process surprisingly simple.

We’ll sample a number of wines, discuss what foods work well with them, what foods don’t, and why. Also included will be the preparation of a creamy risotto, cooked and served with Pinot Grigio, and a beef bourguignon, prepared and served with Cabernet Sauvignon.

$45 course fee includes handy reference materials, all food and wine, and souvenir wine glass.

TASTE WASHINGTON WINE SERIES

Columbia Valley, Snipes Mountain, and Naches Heights Appellations – Saturday, May 14, 2016

Rattlesnake Hills and Columbia Gorge Appellations – Saturday, April 9, 2016

Horse Heaven Hills and Ancient Lakes Appellations – Saturday, March 19, 2016

Red Mountain and Wahluke Slope Appellations – Saturday, February 20, 2016

Yakima Valley and Puget Sound Appellations – Saturday, October 10, 2015

Walla Walla and Lake Chelan Appellations – Saturday, September 26, 2015

Join Bellingham wine enthusiast and free-lance writer Dan Radil as he tastes through the state of Washington’s wine regions in a six-part series. All classes will focus on the wine grapes that each region does best as we compare and contrast styles during a “hands-on” tasting. We’ll also discuss notable wineries to look for within the region and what to expect when planning a visit.

Each class will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. $29 course fee includes wine samples, artisan bread, cheeses, course materials and souvenir wine glass.

BEGINNING WINE TASTING
Saturday, May 16, 2015
2:30 to 5:00 pm

Do you feel intimidated when others talk about wine? Does the wine section of your grocer look like an unexplored exotic location? Put your worries to rest and prepare to learn about the fundamentals of wine styles and tastes in this relaxed, yet informative class.

We’ll focus on the six most popular varieties of wine, all of which you’ll be able to sample. Other topics include how to taste wine, deciphering a wine label, basic terminology, and tips on accessories and storage.

$30 course fee includes reference materials, light appetizers and souvenir wine glass.

RHONE VARIETALS IN WASHINGTON STATE
Saturday, February 21, 2015
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Wine grape varietals originating in France’s Rhone Valley have become increasingly popular among Washington winemakers.

Here’s a great opportunity to learn about a number of these varietals including Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache, and Syrah. We’ll sample six different wines during the class and discuss what to look for in terms of aromas and flavors as well as suggested food pairings.

$39 course fee also includes light appetizers and souvenir wine glass.

“LET’S GO OUT WITH A BANG” WASHINGTON WINE DINNER
Saturday, September 27, 2014
6:00 to 9:00 pm

After 10 years, BTC Chef Marc Eilberg and Bellingham Herald Wine Columnist Dan Radil will be presenting their final wine dinner together.

Prepare for a spectacular, over-the-top finalé featuring a five-course dinner paired with stellar Washington wines including Red Mountain, Yakima Valley and Walla Walla wineries. Dan will also update you on the latest vintages, wine regions, and trends within the state’s wine industry.

All-inclusive course fee of $75 per person includes dinner, wines and course materials.

WASHINGTON WINE DINNER
Saturday, April 26, 2014
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Spend a relaxing, informative evening with a five-course dinner prepared by BTC Chef Marc Eilberg, moderated by Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil, and featuring stellar wines from Washington State.

Dan will give you updates on the latest vintages and trends within the Washington wine industry while serving a number of specially selected wines. We’ll also look at the state’s newer wineries and wine regions along with wines that have become increasingly popular over the last few years.

Course fee of $69 per person is all-inclusive.

MERLOT: MALIGNED BUT STILL MAGNIFICENT
Saturday, March 8, 2014
4:00 to 5:30 pm

Let’s debunk the “Sideways” movie myth once and for all: Merlot is still an incredibly popular red wine and a favorite of many.

During this class we’ll discuss where you can find the grape, Merlot’s styles, aromatics and flavor characteristics, and possible food pairings – all while tasting a number of Merlots from around the world.

Course fee of $29 covers wines, bread & cheeses, course materials and a souvenir wine glass.

VALENTINES DAY WINE DINNER
Friday, February 14, 2014
6:00 to 9:00 pm

This popular class returns with a special Valentine’s Day dinner prepared by BTC Chef Marc Eilberg accompanied by perfectly paired wines.

Moderated by Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil, the class will feature a five-course dinner and a number of spectacular selections including Prosecco and Champagne, red wines from Washington and Napa Valley, and of course, something sweet for dessert.

Skip the crowded restaurant and come enjoy an evening of food and wine with your favorite valentine! Cost for the class, all-inclusive, is $69 per person.

WINE DINNER FEATURING WALLA WALLA & RED MOUNTAIN
Saturday, November 16, 2013
6:00 to 9:00 pm

The Walla Walla and Red Mountain wine regions are arguably two of the most prestigious in Washington State. During this five-course dinner class, prepared by Chef Marc Eilberg, we’ll discuss the wines and wineries associated with these award winning areas.

Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil will moderate the class, which will include his insightful overview along with a specially selected, regional wine pairing with each course.

$69 per person covers your entire evening. Extra tax? No. Gratuity? No. Good food and good wine? Absolutely!

PIZZA AND WINE DINNER
Saturday, October 5, 2013
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Who doesn’t love pizza? This anytime-of-day food favorite can be made in as many possibilities as the wines that you can serve with it.

Chef Marc Eilberg will create a four-course, Wood Stone Oven pizza extravaganza, plus a salad course, while Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil provides you with tips and ideas on how to make the perfect wine/pizza pairing. Prepare for a fun and informative evening!

Course fee of $69 includes all food and wine along with informative take-home information.

WINE DINNER FEATURING VIOGNIER & MALBEC
Saturday, April 13, 2013
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Expand your wine tasting horizons while enjoying a five-course dinner prepared by Chef Marc Eilberg and moderated by Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil.

This class will focus on two increasingly popular varietals, Viognier – often touted as a white wine alternative to Chardonnay – and Malbec, an oftentimes fruit-forward, easy-to-drink red wine. We’ll discuss each wine’s flavor profile and suggested food pairings while tasting selections from Washington, France and South America.

The all-inclusive course fee is a bargain-priced $69 per person and includes dinner, wines and course materials.

ZINFANDEL WINE DINNER
Saturday, February 23, 2013
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Zinfandel may have a reputation for being a brash, one-dimensional red wine; but this wine dinner class will prove otherwise by showcasing its versatility and food friendliness with selections ranging from sparkling to full-bodied to dessert wine.

Chef Marc Eilberg will prepare a spectacular dinner of five courses, each paired with a specially selected Zinfandel. Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil will moderate and discuss the history of the grape, aromatic and flavor characteristics, and suggested food pairings.

Class fee of $69 covers course materials, dinner and wines. And no gratuity or sales tax to worry about!

JUNK FOOD WINE TASTING
Saturday, January 26, 2013
3:30 to 5:00 pm

Who says you need to have a fancy-shmancy gourmet meal to pair with a premium wine? In this class – conveniently scheduled the weekend before Super Bowl Sunday – some of your favorite junk foods such as cheese puffs, popcorn, cocktail weenies and Oreo cookies will be served with killer combination wines.

Prepare to have fun and learn how selecting the proper wine to serve with your food can be relatively easy with just a few simple guidelines.

$29 course fee includes wine and food samples and souvenir wine glass.

OREGON WINE DINNER
Saturday, December 8, 2012
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Oregon is now home to over 400 wineries. Learn more about this critically acclaimed wine producing state while enjoying a five-course dinner served with Oregon wines.

Chef Marc Eilberg will prepare a sumptuous feast and Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil will moderate the event. There will be Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, of course, but also a few surprises you may not have expected to come from Oregon. Special emphasis will be given to King Estate, the state’s largest winery.

All-inclusive class fee of $69 covers course materials, dinner and wines.

PAIRING FOOD WITH WINE
Saturday, May 9, 2009
2:30 to 5:00 pm

Why do wines work well with some foods and taste perfectly awful with others? By looking at the basic elements of taste for both food and wine, this class will help you choose the proper wine to help enhance your dining experience.

We’ll try a number of food samples with six different wines to see what matches well and what doesn’t and why this is the case. Guidelines on specific food and wine pairings will be provided along with information on how the flavor of your wine can be altered by certain foods, poor storage and improper serving.

Class fee of $39 includes wine and food samples, reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

MARYHILL WINERY WINE DINNER
Saturday, June 13, 2009
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Maryhill Winery produces a wide range of big, flavorful red and white wines, and its tasting room may very well be in one of the most spectacular locations in Washington State. During this wine dinner class, hosted by Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil and BTC Chef Marc Eilberg, a sumptuous dinner of five courses will be served, each perfectly complimented by a Maryhill wine.

Dan will provide you with background information on the winery as well as the types of wines being produced and available locally. He’ll also discuss why Maryhill makes such a terrific destination spot, with special events, concerts and a nearby museum to take in if you’re considering a visit in the future.

Total cost of for the class is $65 per person which includes food, wine and handy reference materials.

VIOGNIER & MALBEC
Saturday, March 21, 2009
3:00 to 5:00 pm

Expand your wine tasting horizons by spending an afternoon learning about two varietals that are becoming increasingly popular – Viognier and Malbec. Viognier, often touted as an alternative to Chardonnay, is a wonderfully aromatic white wine that is produced in a wide variety of styles, while Malbec is a tasty, fruit-forward red wine somewhat similar to Merlot.

This class will provide useful information to assist you when purchasing these wines including flavor characteristics and suggested food pairings. We’ll also taste European and South American samples of each wine as well as some domestic selections from the Pacific Northwest.

Class fee of $39 includes wine samples, light appetizers, reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

WINE DINNER FEATURING CHAMPAGNE & SPARKLING WINES
Saturday, February 14, 2009
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil and BTC Chef Marc Eilberg team up to present a very special wine dinner class on Valentines Day. A five-course dinner will be centered around Champagne and sparkling wines and is designed to showcase their versatility and adaptability to a broad range of foods.

Between courses, Dan will discuss Champagne classifications and labeling standards as well as proper preparation and serving techniques. He’ll also explain the planning process he and Marc used in selecting each of the five wines that will be served during the course of the class. Treat yourself – and perhaps a special someone – to this informative, relaxing evening of great food and wine.

Total cost for the class, including food, wine and reference materials will be $69 per person. And remember, no tax or gratuity to worry about!

WHATCOM COUNTY WINE DINNER
Saturday, December 6, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Whatcom County is now home to a number of wineries, and you might be surprised to learn that many of them are producing wines of excellent quality. Wine enthusiast and Bellingham resident Dan Radil will host an evening featuring wines from several of these wineries, including Mount Baker Vineyards, Chuckanut Ridge Wine Company and Dakota Creek Winery.

We’ll take an in depth look at the wineries, the wines they produce and where to find them. The evening will be highlighted by a selection of Whatcom County wines that will be paired with a five-course dinner prepared by BTC Chef Marc Eilberg.

Total cost for the class, including food, wine and reference materials will be $65 per person.

SPANISH WINE DINNER
Saturday, October 11, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Spanish wines have become increasingly popular over the past few years and provide wine drinkers with an incredible range of flavors and tastes. If you’d like to learn more about the wines of Spain, join Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil for an evening that will include a tasting of Spanish wines, along with a five-course dinner prepared by BTC Chef Marc Eilberg. Dan will discuss the country’s major growing regions and varietals and provide useful information to assist you in purchasing Spanish wines.

Cost for the class is $65 and includes dinner, wine and handy reference materials.

HORSE HEAVEN HILLS WINE DINNER
Saturday, August 2, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Located in South Central Washington along the Columbia River, Horse Heaven Hills is one of the State’s newest appellations. The region is currently home to seven wineries that are producing a number of big, bold, award-winning wines that have captured the attention of consumers and critics alike.

Wine columnist Dan Radil will provide you with information about Horse Heaven Hills and you’ll have the opportunity to sample a number of regional wines during a five-course dinner prepared by Chef Marc Eilberg. Learn about this up and coming wine region while enjoying an evening of good food and wine in a relaxed dining atmosphere.

Cost for the evening is $59 per person which includes food, wine and informative reference materials.

SUMMER ENTERTAINING WITH CHAMPAGNE & SPARKLING WINE
Saturday, July 12, 2008
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Is there anything better on a warm, summer day than great food, a chilled glass of champagne or sparkling wine and the company of good friends? Join local cookbook author Mary Ellen Carter and wine columnist Dan Radil as they team up to provide you with tips and planning ideas on summertime food and drinks.

Using fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, Mary Ellen will prepare a variety of quick, elegant and casual hors d’oeuvres, each complemented with the perfect champagne or sparkling wine. Dan will also provide background information on these festive beverages, including purchasing and serving suggestions. Come away with preparation techniques, recipes, and great food and wine ideas that will help you plan for your next gathering during the summer – or any other time of year.

Course fee of $39 includes food, wine and handy reference materials.

OREGON WINE DINNER
Saturday, June 21, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Oregon is now home to over 350 wineries. Learn more about this up and coming wine producing state by joining Chef Marc Eilberg and wine enthusiast Dan Radil in a relaxed atmosphere featuring great food and Oregon wines.

Marc will prepare a sumptuous five-course dinner with a Northwest flair and Dan will complement each course with an Oregon wine. There’ll be Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, of course, but also a few surprises – all of which will add up to a very special dining experience.

Course fee of $59 covers the cost of dinner (with no tax or gratuity to worry about!), wines and informative reference materials.

WALLA WALLA WINE DINNER
Saturday, May 31, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Chef Marc Eilberg and Bellingham Herald Wine Columnist Dan Radil team up to present a memorable evening featuring a five-course dinner, perfectly paired with wines from several Walla Walla wineries.

Dan will also discuss the history of the Walla Walla appellation, varietals gaining prominence in the region, and specific wineries that rank among his personal favorites. Whether you currently enjoy wines from the Walla Walla area or would like to give them a try, this class promises to be real treat.

The incredibly low price of $59 covers the cost of dinner, wines and informative reference materials.

ITALIAN WINE DINNER
Saturday, March 15, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

It is estimated that there are between 350 to 500 different wine producing grapes grown in Italy. Although only a handful of these varietals have taken root in the United States, they are becoming increasingly popular among American wine drinkers.

If you’d like to learn more about Italian-based wines in a relaxed dining atmosphere, join Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil and Chef Marc Eilberg for a five-course dinner featuring Italian cuisine. Dan will pair each course with Italian varietals from either Washington, California, or Italy itself. He’ll also discuss the major varietals and growing regions of Italy and its influence on winemakers in the rest of the world.

$59 per person charge covers the entire cost of the evening…an unbeatable price for a five-course dinner with wines!

WASHINGTON WINE DINNER
Saturday, February 16, 2008
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Spend an evening with wine enthusiast Dan Radil and Chef Marc Eilberg as they present a sumptuous pairing of Washington wines and Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Marc will prepare an exquisite dinner of five courses, each complemented by a Washington wine of Dan’s choice. Dan will discuss his tips for pairing food and wine and also provide information on Washington’s expanding wine industry including its history, trends, and vintages and wineries to look for.

$59 per person course fee covers the entire cost of food and wine, with no worries about extras for taxes and gratuity. A great deal that will be hard to beat!

AN EVENING OF WINE AND FOOD PAIRING – FLAVORS OF SPAIN
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
6:00 to 8:30 pm

Dan teams up once again with popular cooking instructor and author Mary Ellen Carter for an evening of food and wine with a Spanish flavor at Fools Onion Restaurant, located at 1007 Harris Avenue in Bellingham.

Mary Ellen’s delicious menu is scheduled to include spicy cracked marinated olives, paprika-spiced almonds, Catalan salt cod salad, beans with Cabrales (blue cheese) salad, chorizo and mushroom kabobs, and serrano jamon (ham) with arugula. Dan will select a Spanish wine to pair with each course and provide useful information about this outstanding wine producing country.

Class fee is $55 in advance with an $10 optional tasting fee payable at class (which includes a souvenir etched wine glass). The class is sponsored by Whatcom Community College and registration is available online at www.whatcom.ctc.edu or by phoning 676-2170.

FRENCH, ITALIAN AND SPANISH WINE TASTING
Saturday, January 26, 2008
3:00 to 5:00 pm

Think all wines are created equal? Think again! European wines have subtle, but noticeable flavor differences from those produced in the rest of the world. They’re almost always best when served with food, and we’ll discuss their major characteristics while sampling a variety of wines from France, Italy and Spain.

We’ll also explore a brief history of these three country’s major grape growing regions as well as specific varietals each one does best. This is a great class for those interested in learning the basics of European wine tasting.

$35 course fee includes wine samples and light appetizers, reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

AN EVENING OF WINE AND FOOD PAIRING – AUSSIE STYLE
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
6:00 to 8:30 pm

Dan teams up with popular cooking instructor and author Mary Ellen Carter for an evening of autumn foods and Australian wines at Fools Onion Restaurant, located at 1007 Harris Avenue in Bellingham.

Mary Ellen’s menu is scheduled to include rosemany butternut squash bisque, warm white bean salad and citrus zest, lamb braised in red wine with celeriac and shallot puree and an apple galette with cream for dessert. Dan will select a variety of wines to pair with each item and provide useful information on Australia’s wine producing regions.

Class fee is $49 in advance with an $10 optional tasting fee payable at class (which includes a souvenir etched wine glass). The class is sponsored by Whatcom Community College and registration is available online at www.whatcom.ctc.edu or by phoning 676-2170.

CHAMPAGNE, SPARKLING WINES & HOLIDAY WINE TASTING
Saturday, November 3, 2007
3:00 to 5:00 pm

Champagne and sparkling wines can be enjoyed any time of the year, but are always especially popular around the holidays.

To assist with your holiday season entertaining, Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil and local cookbook author Mary Ellen Carter team up to give you tips on how to plan your own wine tasting event and provide you with a variety of festive food, Champagne and sparkling wine samples.

Mary Ellen will offer suggestions on how to prepare quick, elegant, and casual hors d’oeuvres while Dan will present background information on Champagne and sparkling wines – including what to look for before making your purchase and complimentary food choices. Kick off the holiday season in style with this fun and informative class!

$45 course fee includes food, Champagne and sparkling wine samples, informative reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

WINES FROM WALLA WALLA
Friday, August 24, 2007
6:00 to 8:00 pm

The Walla Walla Valley has recently established itself as one of the premiere grape growing regions in both Washington State and the world.

In this class we’ll discuss and taste wine made from the Walla Walla appellation and by Walla Walla winemakers. We’ll also explore the history of the region and why wines from this area – particularly red wines – have become so popular. Maps and information on the Walla Walla Valley will be provided as well as tips on up and coming wineries to watch for.

$35 course fee includes wine samples and light appetizers, reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

SUMMER ENTERTAINING WITH WINE & CHEESE
Saturday, June 23, 2007
6:30 to 8:30 pm

Spend an evening with Bellingham Herald wine columnist Dan Radil and local cookbook author Mary Ellen Carter as they give you helpful hints and planning ideas for summer entertaining with wine and cheese.

Mary Ellen will share her savory recipes to compliment the wines and cheeses – smoked paprika spicy almonds and lemon cracked olives, greens with warm goat cheese, frico with caramelized onion, and a sweet ending of dates stuffed with gorgonzola, mint and hazelnuts. Along with presentation and plating techniques and Dan’s wine pairing choices, this sumptuous evening will be both entertaining and educational.

The class will be held at Quel Fromage, a gourmet cheese shop located in Suite 101 at 1200 Old Fairhaven Parkway in Bellingham. Course fee of $39 includes wine, cheese, recipes and information on wines.

TASTE WASHINGTON WINES
Saturday, February 17, 2007
2:30 to 4:30 pm

Did you know there are now over 375 wineries in the state of Washington? It’s easy to plan a day trip or weekend around this fun and relatively low-cost activity. If you’d like to learn more about where to go and what to do when visiting wineries this is a don’t miss opportunity.

We’ll take a look at the various appellations (growing regions) in Washington and sample wines from each region – as well as close-to-home wineries such as Mount Baker Vineyards, Samson Estates and Chuckanut Ridge Wine Company. Included in the class will be valuable information on nearly every winery in the state, wine tours, festivals and tips on tasting room etiquette.

$30 course fee includes wine samples and cheeses, informative reference materials and souvenir wine glass.

WINES FROM DOWN UNDER
Saturday, April 22, 2006
2:30 to 4:30 pm

Even though they’ve been producing great wines for a number of years, it’s only been recently that Australia and New Zealand winemakers have captured the attention of American wine drinkers.

During this class we’ll explore the primary grape growing regions of each country and focus on the types of varietals that grow best there and why. Then we’ll sample several of these wines and compare their characteristics to similar wines from around the world.

$30 course fee includes wine samples, cheeses and reference materials. As usual, you get to keep the wine glass. Hope to see you there, mate!

STELLAR FOOD & CELLAR WINES
Recap from October 20, 2005

This turned out to be a very enjoyable evening, hosted by the Hotel Bellwether in Bellingham. Chef Joe Merkling of the Harborside Bistro prepared four dishes that were matched with some excellent Northwest wines. I thought I’d pass along the pairings because they were so well received by those who attended.

1) Tuna tartar with papaya, avocado and tomato / 2004 Hogue Cellars Sauvignon Blanc
2) Seafood chowder with coconut milk and chili oil / 2004 Columbia Cellarmaster’s Reisling
3) Salmon with burre blanc / 2002 King Estate Pinot Noir
4) Hoisin marinated lamb / 2002 Maryhill Reserve Zinfandel