Get ready to indulge.

If there’s one thing that annoys you most about Valentine’s Day it’s that it is the only day that allows you to eat as much chocolate and drink as much wine as you’re able. That’s no longer the case, thanks to Yakima Valley’s annual Red Wine & Chocolate event, February 19 – 20.

Guests are invited to experience the bold, intense wines that characterize the oldest and most diverse wine growing region in the state while meeting Yakima Valley’s most talented vintners during a memorable weekend of red wine and chocolate indulgence. You’ll sample several of the 48 varietals produced in the Yakima Valley including: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Lemberger, Sangiovese and Malbec. And, of course, there will be chocolate pairings for all.

Special tastings and events will take place at nearly 40 Yakima wineries, including:

– Kestrel Vintners truffle-making demonstration and chocolate fountain

– Gilbert Cellars winemaker dinner with 5 dishes inspired by chocolate and enhanced with wine

– Claar Cellars serving red wine in chocolate cups

– Steppe Cellars provides a sensory experience with the help of chocolate fondues

– Thurston Wolfe features some of the best port style wines in the state

– Wilridge Winery teams up with Theo Chocolates

– Wineglass Cellars pairs with Dark Chili Chocolates

– Other tastings can be found at the Yakima Wine Association‘s site.

Purchase a Premier Pass for $35 at the door; the pass allows exclusive wine and chocolate pairings, guided cellar tours, library tastings, discounted events and other activities not available to the general public at certain wineries. For more information and to purchase Premier Passes, visit Wine Yakima Valley.