John Howie Steak Welcomes New Wine Director; Redhook Party at Crystal Mountain

BELLEVUE -- John Howie Steak has announced that Chris Lara is joining the team as the new Wine Director/Sommelier. Lara earned his sommelier diploma from the International Sommelier Guild. He's also an Advance Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and an active member of the Guild of Sommeliers. Lara plans to take the challenging Master Sommelier exam in the next year. [EaterWire]

BEER WIRE -- Redhook is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its first Winterhook Ale release with a party at Crystal Mountain. There will be special beer sampling, an ugly sweater catwalk, prizes, and live music. The party is open to the public and takes place on December 13 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Crystal Mountain Resort's Bullwheel Restaurant & Bar. Tickets and more information are available on the Crystal Mountain website. [EaterWire]

CAPITOL HILL -- Monsoon is hosting a tiki-style gin competition on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. in its new bar. Competing bartenders will create two drinks that combine gin with tropical flavors; Contestants include bartenders from Ba Bar and Tavern Law, as well as Mark Sexauer, author of Aphrodisiacs with a Twist. Local judges will pick the best drinks, and attendees will have access to light snacks and a glass of tiki punch. [EaterWire]