WINE BANK

The Wine Bank & Beer Vault (7017 27th Ave. W., University Place) hosts a complimentary wine tasting every Saturday. This opportunity allows lovers of all things vino, try new varietals without the commitment. Broaden your wine collection and knowledge this Saturday with Washington winery Kestrel Winery in the house from 2-4:30 pm.

BARREL AGED BEER

Barrel aged brews are all the hype. Brewmasters have become increasingly experimental in their fermentation of hops. Thursday, March 21, the Ale House (2122 Mildred St., University Place) is hosting a Barrel Aged Beer event. Beers featured will include limited releases like Deschutes Abyss Imperial Stout, Black Diamond Bourbon Barrel Grand Cru, Bourbon Barrel Apple Cider brought to you by Woodchuck and Dried Up Old Geezer Barley Wine winner of the GABF Bronze Metal.

GRAND VIN

Grand Vin (1003 Fourth Ave. E., Olympia) has new digs and wants you to come check it out at its grand reopening from 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 22. To welcome patrons to its expanded space, Grand Vin will be hosting a complimentary wine tasting with guest host Ken Cross from Noble Wines, who will chat up Italian varietals. Light appetizers courtesy of Waterstreet Cafe will accompany your sips of the fermented grape juices. Also, expect a sale with 10 percent off your entire purchase, with some exceptions applying. Drink it up or save for a special dinner party.

CAPITAL FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

The 24th version of the popular Capital Food and Wine Festival will take place noon to 9 p.m., Saturday, March 23 at the Hal and Inge Marcus Pavilion and Norman Worthington Conference Center on the Saint Martin's University campus in Lacey. Festivities include a focus on local wineries, breweries and restaurants accompanied by live music from two stages. Tickets are available for purchase at the following locations: Ralph's Thriftway, Bayview Thriftway, TwinStar Credit Union and the University's Marcus Pavilion office. VIP tickets can be pre-purchased for $15 through March 23; general admission tickets can be purchased at the door the day of the event for $20. The price includes admission and a choice of a festival wine glass or ale glass at the door. For details, see capitalfoodandwinefestival.com.

CHAMPIONS FOR YOUTH BREAKFAST

The Champions for Youth Breakfast will be held at 7 a.m. Thursday, March 28 at the Old Country Buffet in the Lakewood Towne Center. The event includes breakfast and words from keynote speaker David Pritchard, assistant football coach at Clover Park High School and author of Going Public: Your Child Can Thrive in Public School. Tickets cost $50 with proceeds benefiting Lakewood Communities in Schools, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Contact Dave O'Keeffe or Christina Klas for details and registration, at 253.589.7478.