Wine tasting will get easier in downtown Bellevue as the state Liquor Control Board will allow two chain grocery stores to participate in a pilot program.

The new Safeway flagship grocery at 300 Bellevue Way N.E. and the QFC store just north of Bellevue Square at 10116 N.E. Eighth are part of a 30-store group that will participate in a yearlong wine and beer tasting pilot. The pilot runs from Oct. 1, 2008 to Sept. 30, 2009.

The WSLCB will provide guidance and oversight for the pilot, and will submit a report including findings, complaints and comments about the pilot to the Legislature on Dec. 1, 2009.

The 30 participating stores are made up of 15 stores from four nationally known grocery chains, and 15 independently owned stores.

One other store in Bellevue is involved: Matthew’s at Lakemont, 4989 Lakemont Blvd.