In late July, Oregon and Washington will play host to distinct international wine events, showcasing each state's signature wines: pinot noir and riesling. Folks from around the world will be descending on our region to celebrate these two varietals in both New and Old World forms.

For anyone wanting an immersion in Oregon pinot and Washington riesling, the dates Friday, July 25 thru Tuesday, July 29, are an extended weekend to mark on the calendar.

First up is the 22nd annual International Pinot Noir Celebration (IPNC), which will be held from Friday, July 25 thru Sunday, July 27 in McMinnville, Oregon. This year's focus is on sustainability, which will be covered in one of several seminars along with a variety of activities including vineyard tours, tastings, lunches and dinners. After hearing from those who attended last year's event, I was not going to miss out this year and am counting the days until July 25.

On the heels of the IPNC, the Riesling Rendezvous is being held from Sunday, July 27, thru Tuesday, July 29, in the Seattle area. The event kicks off with a grand tasting on Sunday at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville and then is followed Monday by a series of winemaker dinners. Seminars are scheduled Monday and Tuesday for those in the trade who got tickets early enough before these sold out.

Even though I plan to spend three days in Oregon celebrating Pinot Noir, I am going to try to hustle back to Seattle to make the Riesling Rendezvous grand tasting event on Sunday. Why not? It's the best time of year in either state to be outside enjoying and celebrating wine. Hope to see you there.