SEATTLE - Willows Lodge has named Tyler Alden, an Advanced Sommelier, as Wine Director for the Barking Frog and Willows Lodge.  Tyler joins the F&B team from Purple Cafe and Wine Bar in Seattle with years of experience as a wine educator, sommelier, and steward of service excellence.

"We are thrilled to have Tyler join us to continue to innovate and lead our extensive wine program here at the lodge in beautiful Woodinville Wine Country," said Denny Fitzpatrick, "From everyday pairings in Barking Frog and Fireside Lounge, to special events like our winemaker and brewer dinners, Tyler's knowledge and experience will continue to support our F&B program as one of the best in the region."

In August of 2013, Tyler passed the rigorous three-day Advanced Sommelier exam by the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, adding his name to an elite list.  Prior to Barking Frog and Willows Lodge, Tyler was the Assistant Wine Director for Purple Cafe and Wine Bar in Seattle, and Education and Service Director for Heavy Restaurant Group.  For beer lovers, Tyler is also an expert on craft brew pairings and holds the title of Certified Cicerone, a certification program for beer similar to sommelier in the wine world.  Tyler is a graduate of the University of Washington's Foster School of Business.

About Willows Lodge
Willows Lodge, a Northwest style lodge located in Woodinville Wine Country just outside of Seattle, features 84 luxury guestrooms, a full-service spa and high-tech equipped meeting space.  Executive Chef Bobby Moore's American regional cuisine at Barking Frog reflects the seasonal and organic produce found in Puget Sound, and is artfully paired with an extensive list of Washington wines.  Willows Lodge also boasts Fireside Lounge, offering a casual and sophisticated atmosphere tucked away in the lobby with an outdoor patio overlooking the expansive surrounding landscape. www.willowslodge.com