PROOF Festival Brings Washington Distillers a Shot at the Spotlight

Washington state wineries and restaurants have been getting some solid nods recently, but a lot of folks still don't know a ton about local distilleries. So in a few weeks, PROOF aims to bring a little awareness and a whole lotta local booze to soon-to-be-drunk people at Fremont Studios.

The festival is in its third year showing off distillers, and this year's lineup includes over 40 local makers. One new bit they're especially excited about is the "Use the Booze: Home Bar Basics With the Experts" displays, featuring incredibly knowledgeable industry pros like Amanda Reed (Tavern Law, etc.) and Andrew Friedman (Liberty, Good Citizen). They'll teach interactive sessions and send people home with cocktail recipes.

Also new is a store within the festival, taking the guesswork out of whether your local store will have the liquor you're searching for.

There are 15 local restaurants and bars serving up bites to help sop up your booze, and some of them will offer cocktails to pair with your food — thus complicating that whole balancing act.

PROOF Washington Distillers Festival is happening on Saturday, July 11 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets are available from Stranger Tickets, with general admission going for $40 with 10 tasting tokens, and VIP running you $60 for an extra hour of tasting (start time is 4:30) and two extra tasting tokens.