Sip and savor: a showcase of northwest wines, beer and food comprised the Fifth Annual Kitsap Wine Festival at Harborside Fountain Park last Saturday.
The event, benefitting the Harrison Medical Center Foundation, raised $20,000 in tickets sales and attendance was up, with 750 people attending.
Attendees were welcome to meander around the park, located along the waterfront adjacent to the Bremerton Ferry Terminal.
Three local breweries had beer on tap and 27 wineries poured a wide selection of varietals.
Harrison CEO Scott Bosch attended, as did Port of Bremerton Commissioner Axel Strakeljahn.
“This is a general fundraiser for the Harrison Foundation,” said Bosch. “It raises money for projects, continuing education for staff and non-budgeted equipment.”
“It’s just a great cause and a great way to return something to the community,” said Strakeljahn. “I think it’s the best event in Kitsap County, and I’m happy to contribute to the Harrison Foundation.”
Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet offered ahi nachos and Minder Meats made pulled pork sliders to go along with the wines.
Other savory treats included smoked black cod with pineapple and mango, courtesy of the Kitsap Conference Center, and a chilled crab and shrimp crostini from the Boat Shed Restaurant.
For dessert aficionados, Bremerton Bar & Grill had petite blackberry cobbler with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and Toro Lounge presented a rich orange cognac-infused chocolate mousse.
Offerings from Amy’s Decadent Chocolates, Bella Bella Cupcakes and Carter’s Chocolates made for a sweet end to a well-attended event.
“The camaraderie is great,” said Mayor Patty Lent. “ This is more of a highbrow event — the brew fest in July is more relaxing.”
Ronna Roske, from the Illahee area, said, “This event was on our to-do list. So we’re to-doing it.”
Roske attended the event with her extended family.
She and her group unanimously agreed that their favorite sip was the 2009 Dark Star from Kana Winery. The Minder Meat pulled pork slider was their favorite savor.
The Kitsap Wine Festival began in 2009. and is organized by the Kitsap Conference Center, Harrison Medical Foundation and Peha Productions.
