Challenger Ridge Trying New Things to Attract Wine Enthusiasts

Challenger Ridge is mixing it up trying new and creative events at their tasting room in Woodinville. Since opening its doors a year and a half ago, the question that General Manager, Rachel Weed has been asking herself is how to draw in more wine drinkers to Woodinville and Challenger Ridge and keep them coming back for more?

“Everyone is looking for value in what they do these days,” she said.

To get repeat customer, Weed plans to have four major events up at the wineries Concrete location up on the Skagit River, including the Harvest & Crush Event, Corvette car gathering, a jazz festival, and one more to be determined later. They also have a Skagit eagle watching float for two weekends in January. A a jet boat takes you up the Skagit River and floats back down which offering up close views of the majestic bird. 

In Woodinville, the tasting room is offering Girlfriends Night in February and a Valentine cooking class. The cooking class with be hands on and each course will be paired with a Challenger Ridge wine. Over the Valentine’s Day tasting fees will go toward the American Heart Association.

You may also see a variety of Happy Hours, a 5K race, and A Day at the Races. Look for the Hot, Hot, Hot event with Woodinville firefighters signing wine bottle, a benefit the family. They have just added a Dicks Burger & Tool Time Happy Hour on February 4th.

“I’m hoping to have everyone who comes in has a great time and want to come back again and again. And bring their friends,” Said Weed. 

I am starting to see more and more interesting events with many of the Woodinville wineries. We have a great opportunity to make Woodinville wines really exciting and dynamic. Make sure you stop in or go onto Challenger Ridge’s website to see what exciting events they have in the works. 

Woodinville Wine Happenings Jan. 28 - Feb. 3.

Friday, Jan. 28

Matthews Estate has Friday Night Live, 6:30 - 9 p.m., with appetizers, wines by the glass, and live music.

Saturday, Jan. 29

Edmonds Winery, is wrapping up their month long Soup’s On event.

Pondera Winery is offering a vertical tasting of their Sericus, a Merlot Bordeaux blend from 3-5 p.m. You’ll be tasting 2005-2007 along with a sneak taste of the not yet released 2008. You’ll need to RSVP for this as there is limited space. Cost: $25

Sunday, Jan. 30

Two Vintners is only open a few times a year so make sure you stop by for the release of their Syrah and Merlot. $5 fee helps to pay for food to pair with the wines.

is back for its second year. It gives brides to be a chance to see 7 venues dressed up for the big day. There are about 90 vendors to see and wine and cake is being served.

Wednesday, Feb. 2

 Italianissimo is having Wine Wednesday but this time with a twist. They will be hosting Woodinville Whiskey Company. Wonder what food they pair with the whiskey and vodka. Great deal for $15

Thursday, Feb. 3

Otis Kenyon  will be celebrating Chinese New Year from Thursday, Feb. 3-Sunday, Feb. 6. It’s the Year of the Rabbit so hop on in and celebrate the new lunar year.