Tuesday marks National Wine Day in the United States. While California still leads the nation in wine production, there are at least three wineries in every state. Montana claims eight wineries and 24 vineyards, nearly half of which are within 100 miles of Kalispell.

To mark the occasion, the Alpine Theatre Project of Whitefish has announced its second Whitefish Wine Auction for the Arts will be held Aug. 18 through Aug. 20.

The event will feature several wineries based in California's Napa Valley, including Foley Food and Wine, Battuello Family Vineyards and Frias Family Vineyards.

The event also will feature celebrity chefs, including Andy Blanton, the mastermind behind Cafe Kandahar on Big Mountain and a four-time semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation's best chef in the Northwest, as well as chefs Alec Graham and Melissa Mangold.

On Wednesday, Aug. 18, oenophiles can experience wines produced by the featured wineries at an event dubbed "Suis Lago," an outdoor lakeside tasting at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.

On Thursday, Aug. 19, wine and food aficionados can chat with vintners and chefs at private home dinners around the valley.

The main event, a gala and wine auction on Friday, Aug. 20, will feature a menu designed by Chef Thomas Newton paired with wines selected by featured vintners, entertainment by the theater project, and an auction of unique wines, travel opportunities and wine experiences. The event will be outdoors under the big lakeside tent at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.

Tickets can be purchased and more information can be found at atpwhitefish.org/wineauction or by calling 406-862-SHOW (7469).

Community editor Carol Marino may be reached at 406-758-4440 or [email protected].