May 2nd –  Merlot Gone Mad at the Tulalip Resort Casino in Marysville, WA.   This event showcased over 50 Washington State wineries (serving Merlot), an educational wine seminar and Tulalip chef demonstrations.  The Tulalip chefs prepared merlot-friendly foods for sampling.  My favorite offering consisted of  a Heritage Salmon over fire-roasted corn fritters (Blackfish Restaurant) 

Sorry, couldn't wait!

and a Rotisserie leg of American lamb with hard cider apple salsa and stone ground mustard crostini (Eagle Buffet).  The Tulalip Bay Restaurant and the Banquet and Pastry chefs also provided delicious options.  If you haven’t been to the Tulalip Casino for a meal, it is certainly worthwhile (with a variety of cuisine and pricepoints to choose from).  If you are looking for a future food & wine event…mark your calendars for The Taste of Tulalip, November 12th and 13th, 2010.  http://www.tulalipresort.com/entertainment/taste-of-tulalip.aspx

Interesting to note:  there was an actual Tweet table which presented the Tweeters tweeting as they were tasting during the event.  Also, that morning, The Seattle Times published an article on Stan Jones, longtime leader of the Tulalip Tribes –http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011757441_stanjones02m.html

The Tulalip Resort Casino is adorned in Northwest and Native American decor.  The Hotel offers guest rooms and suites, amenities include banquet/meeting rooms, the Oasis pool (which looks like an oasis…waterfall included), spa services, gift shops, a comfy fireplace/lounge, and a walkway that leads us to the restaurants, casino, and entertainment.  For those of you with an interest in fine dining, the Tulalip Bay Restaurant invites you to watch James Beard House invitee Chef Dean Shinagawa work his craft or experience the intimate wine room that contains a handcrafted chandelier designed by artist Dale Chihuly.  Oh, and on your arrival, waterfalls and Orcas will greet you.  http://www.tulalipresort.com/