Keep Walking to 'Scotchtober' at Willows Lodge

We hear the word "Rocktober," and we're instantly transported back to our Philly youth, when the 93.3 WMMR radio DJ's would belt it out with a reverb echo effect every chance they got. It kinda sucked, because October was (and still is) our favorite month, and the cheese factor of these overly schticky on-air personalities has stuck in our head for years. We'll get over it. Le sigh.

Instead of "Rocktober," some folks have, dare we say, more civilized visions of what this autumnal month means. For many, it's "Oktoberfest," a 16-day festival centered about consuming copious amounts of beer, schweinsbraten and sauerkraut. Oh yeah, and wearing sexy lace-up dirndls. But at Barking Frog at Willows Lodge in Woodinville (Seattle's answer to wine country, although most of the AVA's grapes are actually grown in Eastern Washington), it can only mean one, high-proof thing -- "Scotchtober."

On Thursday, October 22, scotch lovers are in for a super unique spirits experience with Ari Shapiro, one of only 15 Master of Whiskey experts in the United States. Executive Chef Bobby Moore will create a four-course feats to coincide with five whisky pairings. We got a sneak peek of the menu, and highlights include: breast of squab with celerac, endive and Walla Walla onion salad; Northwest beef tenderloin and smoked ribs with fennel and Yukon gold potato gratin; and apple almond gallette with cinnamon Chantilly.

Let all you lushes be aware that this (ahem) spirited event is not just about getting warm and fuzzy (although we're guessing it's inevitable, so book a room, it's cheaper than a DUI) -- Shapiro will lead an educational and interactive table-talk throughout dinner, filling scotch enthusiasts in on whisky secrets, production and history. Weather-permitting, the talk will be taken outside to Fireside Cellar's fire pit on the patio post-dinner with, yep, more whisky and cigars. The cost is $95 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

If scotch isn't your spirit, Barking Frog is serving up a festive Howl-o-wine soiree on Halloween. Come costumed (it's encouraged, but not required) for an evening of wine in Fireside Cellars. "Treat" yourself to an overnight stay on Saturday, October 31 for a reduced rate of $199 (based on availability) in one of Willows Lodge's 84 luxury guestrooms.

HotelChatter

Select a Destination:

Tags: Hotel Bars / Hotels Restaurants / Washington Hotels / Hotel Scotch / → All Tags