Mixed Cocktails Now Allowed in Tasting Rooms; Fred Hutch's Premier Chefs Dinner

VITAL UPDATES — Last week, Governor Jay Inslee signed a bill that will allow the state's distilleries to do several things, including "[allow] customers to taste the product in the way they would normally consume it at home rather than drinking it straight & room temperature. This allows for mini-cocktails, of sorts, mixed with only spirits distilled at the distillery." They can also sell their spirits at farmers markets, according to the Washington Distillers Guild. [EaterWire]

LOWER QUEEN ANNE — Champagne importer Fat Cork is hosting a "Big Fat Champagne Tasting" on May 30 from 1 to 5 p.m. at their warehouse. You'll be able to sample 25 different champagnes. Tickets are on sale and must be purchased in advance; FC Club Members may bring up to 4 guests at the club member pricing.There will be no food at the event so Fat Cork recommends you "eat a large lunch." [EaterWire]

SODO — This Sunday, the Premier Chefs Dinner will take place at Herban Feast to raise funds for Fred Hutchinson's cancer research. Expect Northwest wines, hors d'oeuvres, and a four-course dinner prepared by chefs Mike Easton, Josh Henderson, Roy Breiman, Craig Hetherington, Maria Hines, Matt Lewis, Derek Ronspies, Shane Ryan, Jason Stoneburner and David Varley. More information and tickets are available online. [EaterWire]