Why We Do What We Do

"Enological Society" sounds a bit ostentatious to some people who simply want to enjoy wine. The title of our organization is really quite simple though. Enology (also spelled oenology) is nothing more than a study of wines, especially how wine is made.

Monthly wine tasting programs are designed to educate members about various wine regions, to learn why some grapes grow better in one area than another how winemaking techniques refine the product, and to become acquainted with wine traditions. This is why we invite professionals in the wine industry to speak at our events.

Pairing food bites with wine selections also has been part of "educating the palate." In the early days, Enological Society program wines were fewer and simpler, and the "cuisine" was breadsticks and cheese. The events have evolved to more elaborate servings of several flights of wine, each matched with elegant food bites prepared by some of the most accomplished chefs in the Northwest.

Because we are an all-volunteer organization, we do our best to keep costs down, and to provide good value to our members. We suggest that our attendees bring their own wine glasses, although we do provide wine glasses for sale or give out plastic cups for those in need! Our monthly programs often feature side-by-side comparisons of pairs of wine with food bites, so the best thing is to bring your own pair of wine glasses.

Program meetings are meant to be fun social occasions as well, where friends compare notes on the wine and food pairings. Planning for up to 300 people at these monthly events requires a set format to accommodate members and provide an enjoyable evening for all.

Tables are set for eight people. Ushers must fill up open spots near the stage before seating at other tables farther back. Please help them out by taking a seat where directed. If you and your friends want to sit together, make sure you all arrive early. When you come in close to 7:30, ushers will have you fill in tables before setting up new ones so your group will likely be separated. (This gives you a chance to make even more friends!)

"Singles" tables, marked with balloons, are not for matchmaking purposes (although we do hear reports of new-found friends eventually dating) but rather are reserved for people attending alone. If your spouse or best friend isn't with you, have a seat with the singles.

We request that you extend the courtesy of attention when a speaker is at the podium. Conversation at the table disturbs those who wish to learn something about the wine and food. There are breaks in the presentation when you and friends can talk. Please hold all chatting for these times.

Our servers are volunteers, not professional waiters. Each is responsible for three tables. Some are new to the job, others have served many times. They all appreciate your help in doing their job.

Servers pour wines through a measured spout to make sure there is enough for everyone. Sometimes these spouts malfunction, so please be patient if there is a problem.

Please provide a clear passage for servers to get around each table. Keeping your chair pulled in and hanging long coats in the lobby instead of letting them drape across the floor helps with the flow.

Food is portioned out on trays to serve eight per table. Trying to squeeze in an extra person not only blocks passage for the servers, it also means someone at the table will go without food.

We are always looking for ways to improve programs. Look for a survey sheet soon and give us your suggestions for even better events. And remember, any member of the Enological Society can volunteer to help at a program meeting. We're always willing to share the fun.

- Your Program Committee