Wine, art event draws hundreds downtown | Photos

Art UnCorked features local winemakers, musicians and artists.

Wine was poured, music was played, art was purchased and treats were consumed at the second annual Art UnCorked, the most lively and talked about event in Mercer Island’s Town Center.

78th Ave S.E. and Sunset Boulevard were closed off for the event, allowing people to roam around and experience the wine gardens, art displays and food trucks next to the Outdoor Sculpture Gallery.

Attendees began arriving at 5 p.m. for a new VIP “Meet the Winemaker” hour, sponsored by Aljoya, allowing them to beat the crowds and have more intimate conversations about the winemaking process.

A dozen Washington state wineries, many with Island connections, and two hard cider makers poured their products under tents, though the weather did more than cooperate.

As the sun went down, twinkle lights illuminated the displays of juried artisans and gallery owners and their unique mix of art.

The Chamber of Commerce, with the Mercer Island Visual Arts League (MIVAL), organized the event.