NEWPORT – The annual Iron Sommelier and Brewmaster Event is taking place this weekend.

The event, set for Saturday, Feb. 22, will take place from 5:30-10:30 p.m. at the Priest River Event Center, 5399 Highway 2, Priest River.

This lively event provides a unique approach to wine and microbrew tasting paired with food. Guests vote for their favorite wine or microbrew pairings while enjoying six gourmet small bite courses by executive chef Steven Swanson of the award-winning Nectar Catering and Events in Spokane. A 2002 graduate of Newport High School, Chef Steven went to culinary school at Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale.

Swanson also has worked at Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar and the Coeur d’Alene Resort locally and, in Seattle, worked at Microsoft Lancer Catering and Everett Golf and Country Club. His culinary creativity and passion add a unique touch to Nectar menus that truly set them apart.

Sandpoint-based MickDuff’s Brewing Company and Matchwood Brewing Company will face off for the 2020 Brewmaster title. Competing wine distributors vying for the Iron Sommelier title are Vehrs Distributing and Odom Distributing. Spirited pourings and happy hour snacks are provided by the Beardmore Bistro Wine Bar & Tap House. This event welcomes both novice and expert tasters — no experience necessary. Non-alcoholic options are complimentary for those who choose not to participate in the tasting.

Proceeds from the event, which is sold out, benefit Newport Hospital & Health Services Foundation’s Healthy Kids Snack Bag Program, Reach Out & Read and other foundation hospital equipment and programs.

Information: newporthospitalandhealth.org