Dec 28, 2011 | Food & Beverage, Special Events
Weekend filled with spectacular culinary events and celebrity chef appearances
Sun WineFest 2012’s lineup of celebrity chefs and winemakers will feature top personalities in both industries at Mohegan Sun on Friday, January 27th ; Saturday, January 28th; and Sunday, January 29th. Celebrity chefs in attendance will include Bobby Flay of Bar Americain and Bobby’s Burger Palace, Todd English of Todd English’s Tuscany and Jasper White of Jasper White’s Summer Shack and Summer Shack Express, all located at Mohegan Sun, along with chefs Govind Armstrong, Donatella Arpaia, Kim Canteenwalla, Mary Ann Esposito, Elizabeth Falkner, Ben Ford, Marc Forgione, Larry Forgione, Bryan Forgione, Betty Fraser, Michael Ginor, Ihsan Gurdal, Andy Husbands, Robert Irvine, Susur Lee, Emily Luchetti, Daisy Martinez, Douglas Rodriguez, Jason Santos, Jacques Torres and Marcela Valladolid as well as winemakers Neil Bernardi, Jim Bernau, Aurélie Botton, Nicoletta Canella, Bob Iantosca, Kate MacMurray, Derek Rohlffs and Greg Winter. The lineup will also include spirit and beer producers Bernie Lubbers, Fergal Murray and Hugh Sisson.
Mohegan Sun Executive Pastry Chef and Guinness World Record Holder for “World’s Largest Wedding Cake” Lynn Mansel and his exceptional culinary team will also take part in the weekend events.
Chefs Bobby Flay, Todd English, Marc Forgione, Donatella Arpaia and Robert Irvine will participate in live demonstrations throughout the day during the Grand Tasting on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00pm to 5:00pm as well as in the Celebrity Chef Dine Around presented by Moët & Chandon on Saturday at 8:00pm where they will be joined by the full lineup of celebrity chefs.
The Celebrity Chef Dine Around features an unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs and accompanied by superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the chefs, winemakers and spirit producers. Elaborate dessert displays presented by Chocolatier Jacques Torres, Emily Luchetti, recognized around the world for her award-winning sweet creations and the author of five cookbooks and Mohegan Sun’s Executive Pastry Chef Lynn Mansel will be complemented with the exceptional collection of Hennessy Cognacs.
Tickets may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, sunwinefest.com, over the phone at 1.800.745.3000 or in-person at Mohegan Sun’s Box Office.
For more information on Sun WineFest 2012 events, featured personalities and hours and area hotel information, visit sunwinefest.com or Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/sunwinefest and twitter.com/sunwinefest.
Sun WineFest 2012 is a production of Cirilli Associates LLC, a Connecticut-based marketing firm that specializes in event concepts, event production, and customized marketing and sponsorship programs.
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and meeting destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
Dec 13, 2011 | Food & Beverage, Special Events
Bernie Lubbers, Kate MacMurray, Hugh Sisson, Aurélie Botton & Neil Bernardi to host
exclusive seminars during Sun WineFest weekend
Sun WineFest attendees as well as wine and beer enthusiasts can enhance their weekend with the Sun WineFest Seminar Series presented by igourmet. A Grand Tasting ticket is not required to attend the seminars hosted by Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Heavy Seas Beer, MacMurray Ranch, Marnier Lapostolle and Migration Duckhorn. Each seminar will provide unique opportunities to learn about beer and wine from the experts that create them.
“Things You Never Knew About Bourbon; Sampling And Education”
Presented by Bernie Lubbers, Beam Global Spirits & Wine
Hosted by Bernie Lubbers, this seminar teaches you the history, different flavor profiles and characteristics of five delicious high end bourbons. Explore how bourbon was first discovered while sipping on America’s top five bourbons. Attendees will receive a copy of Bernie Lubbers book – Bourbon Whiskey our Native Spirit: Sour Mash and Sweet Adventures. The seminar will take place from 12:45pm to 1:45pm on Saturday, January 28th at Todd English’s Tuscany. Tickets to the seminar are $65.00 per person.
From Angus to Pinot: Kate MacMurray
Presented by Kate MacMurray, MacMurray Ranch
This seminar features a verbal history of growing up at MacMurray Ranch in the Russian River Valley told by native daughter, Kate MacMurray. Guests will taste through the portfolio of wines including the incredible Pinot Noirs! The seminar will be held from 1:30pm to 2:30pm on Saturday, January 28th at Bobby Flay’s Bar Americain. Tickets for this event are $65.00 per person.
Heavy Seas Beer & Cheddar Pairings
Presented by Hugh Sisson, Heavy Seas Beer
Tasting and pairing of six varietals of Heavy Seas Beer with a unique assortment of Cheddar Cheeses. How could you go wrong with this one! The seminar will be held from 2:30pm to 3:45pm on Saturday, January 28th at Todd English’s Tuscany. Tickets for this event are $50.00 per person.
Lapostolle – Organic and Biodynamic Winemaking in Chile
Presented by Aurélie Botton, Marnier Lapostolle
Lapsotolle’s mission is to make world class quality wines combining French essence with the exceptional qualities of the Chilean terroir. Their winemaking philosophy is based upon producing wines that express their origin, as well as respecting and working in harmony with the environment. A vision based on minimal intervention resulting in quality wines that are produced along the natural life cycle of the grapes to minimize the use of natural resources and waste production. Join us for a tasting of four Lapostolle Wines including the Icon of the winery – Clos Apalta. This exclusive event will be held from 1:00pm to 2:00pm at Todd English’s Tuscany on Sunday, January 29th. Tickets for this event are $60.00 per person.
Exploration of Terroir with Neil Bernardi- Migration Winemaker
Presented by Neil Bernardi, Migration Duckhorn
Since crafting its premiere vintage of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir in 2001, Duckhorn Wine Company’s Migration has earned acclaim for a refined and compelling style of winemaking that seamlessly balances vibrancy and finesse. Today, guided by winemaker Neil Bernardi — a cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay specialist — Migration has taken flight. Defined by the idea of movement, Migration is dedicated to going beyond its original home and exploring Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from California’s finest cool-climate appellations. “Traditionally at Duckhorn Wine Company,” says Neil, “the character of a particular wine is deeply connected to a specific place or region. Migration offers a different paradigm. We are starting with a clearly defined style and exploring how that style can be expressed in different winegrowing regions, which is a fascinating prospect.” Join Neil Bernardi in a unique and exciting seminar as he tastes you on his award winning Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from the Anderson and Russian River Valleys. Together you will explore Chardonnay through the lens of its best vineyards, and through the most expressive fruit sources of this white varietal. You’ll then learn about Pinot Noir and how terroir plays an important role in the blending of this red varietal. This seminar will help you gain a better understanding of how a winemaker goes about making a vineyard designated wine versus a blended wine, and reveal many details about the winemaker’s approach and philosophy when making a wine. The seminar will take place from 3:00pm to 4:30pm on Sunday, January 29th at Todd English’s Tuscany. Tickets to the seminar are $60.00 per person.
Tickets for the Grand Tasting, Elite Cru Tasting and Bubbles & Bon Bons may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, sunwinefest.com, over the phone at 1.800.745.3000 or in-person at the Mohegan Sun Box Office. Tickets for seminars are available through the Mohegan Sun Box Office in person or at 860.862.8499.
Stay posted on Sun WineFest on Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/sunwinefest and twitter.com/sunwinefest
Sun WineFest 2012 is a production of Cirilli Associates LLC, a Connecticut-based marketing firm that specializes in event concepts, event production, and customized marketing and sponsorship programs.
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and dining destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
Nov 7, 2011 | Food & Beverage, General News, Special Events
Celebrity Chef Dine Around, Elite Cru Tasting, Bourbon Tasting and Bubbles & Bon Bons will provide one-on-one experiences with innovative winemakers and celebrity chefs from around the world
Sun WineFest 2012 presented by Lexus will have an exclusive lineup of special events available to wine and food enthusiasts looking to enhance their weekend. Elite Cru Tasting, Celebrity Chef Dine Around, Bourbon Tasting and Bubbles & Bon Bons events will provide guests with unique opportunities to learn about their favorite food and wine from world-renowned experts.
Celebrity Chef Dine Around
On Saturday evening, January 28th, Sun WineFest 2012’s Celebrity Chef Dine Around will feature some of the most prominent names in the industry. Food and wine enthusiasts will be served signature dishes by celebrity chefs, expertly paired with wines from the nation’s top winemakers from 8:00pm to 11:00pm in the Uncas Ballroom. The evening also includes a champagne reception presented by Möet & Chandon to benefit Channel 3 Kids Camp. Scott Haney and other Channel 3 personalities will also be in attendance in support of the camp.
Signature dishes will be served by a variety of celebrity chefs and winemakers themselves including Bobby Flay, Ben Ford, Todd English, Jasper White, Govind Armstrong, Donatella Arpaia, Kate MacMurray, Kim Canteenwalla, Betty Fraser, Michael Ginor, Ihsan Gurdal, Andy Husbands, Robert Irvine, Emily Luchetti, Elizabeth Falkner, Mary Ann Esposito, Marc Forgione, Larry Forgione, Bryan Forgione, Daisy Martinez, Douglas Rodriguez, Jason Santos and Jacques Torres.
Tickets for this culinary extravaganza are $175.00 per person.
Elite Cru Tasting
Wine lovers can get up-close-and-personal with some of the “best of the best” vintages from all over the world at the Elite Cru Tasting from 3:00pm to 5:00pm on Saturday, January 28th in The Cabaret Theatre. This event, in its third year, will offer select vintages from premium wineries and producers. The tasting will also feature oysters, shrimp and gourmet cheeses with guests having the chance to talk one-on-one with winemakers for the duration of the affair. Tickets for this one-of-a-kind opportunity are $200.00 per person which includes admission to the Saturday Grand Tasting and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Channel 3 Kids Camp.
Bourbon Tasting
Sun WineFest is excited to bring back its Bourbon Tasting presented by Beam Global Spirits & Wine from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Leffingwells Martini Bar on Friday, January 27th. The 3-hour tasting will give inquiring minds an opportunity to mingle and enjoy the insight of Bernie Lubbers, Whiskey Professor for Beam Global Spirits and Wine and author of Bourbon Whiskey Our Native Spirit. Bernie was named “Global Whiskey Ambassador of the Year, 2009” by Whisky Magazine at Whisky Live! in London. Taste the artisan attention of 100’s of years of tradition through Plan B’s unique bourbon inspired menu paired with a variety of fine bourbons including Maker’s Mark, Booker’s, Knob Creek and Jim Beam. Savor them straight or enlist the help of Plan B’s mixologists to create a crafted bourbon cocktail.
Dedicated space will also be provided for a premium cigar sampling hosted by AVO Cigars—Cigars in Perfect Harmony. AVO Cigars bear the name of famed pianist and legendary cigar connoisseur Avo Uvezian. After a successful career as a Jazz pianist Avo Uvezian toured the Caribbean in search of the finest tobaccos and the best factory for making his cigars. In 1982 he found both in the Dominican Republic. Today AVO Cigars are enjoyed by aficionados all over the world and Avo’s lifelong quest for perfect harmony has brought him great success in not one, but two careers – music and premium cigars. Tickets are $90.00 per person with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Channel 3 Kids Camp.
Bubbles & Bon Bons
Topping off Sun WineFest’s blockbuster weekend is the popular Bubbles & Bon Bons event in The Cabaret Theatre from 6:00pm to 9:00pm on Sunday, January 29th. Guests will sample high-end champagnes, chocolates and cheeses inside The Cabaret Theatre featuring Jacques Torres, one of the most beloved and highly regarded pastry chefs and chocolatiers in the world. Jacques will be joined by Emily Luchetti, recognized around the world for her award-winning sweet creations and the author of five cookbooks, Elizabeth Falkner, owner and Chef of two Michelin recommended restaurants in San Francisco and Executive Pastry Chef Lynn Mansel from Mohegan Sun. This event will appeal to all of your senses through decadent desserts, luxurious champagne, delightful entertainment and an opportunity to mingle and party with fantastic chefs in an intimate setting – you won’t want to miss how we bring the Sun WineFest 2012 to a close! Tickets for this sumptuous event are $95.00 per person.
The weekend’s main event, the Grand Tasting takes place from 12:00pm to 5:00pm on Saturday, January 28th and Sunday, January 29th in the Convention Center at Mohegan Sun. Over 1,000 wines, spirits and beers will be on-hand for tasting as well as sample dishes from some of the area’s finest restaurants.
There will be a nominal charge for the sampling of signature dishes – a portion of the proceeds benefits Channel 3 Kids Camp. Tickets for this weekend attraction are $70.00 for a one-day pass and $120.00 for a weekend pass.
Tickets for the Grand Tasting, Elite Cru Tasting, Celebrity Chef Dine Around, Bourbon Tasting and Bubbles & Bon Bons may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, sunwinefest.com, over the phone at 1.800.745.3000 or in –person at Mohegan Sun’s Box Office.
For more information on Sun WineFest 2012 events, featured personalities and hours and area hotel information, visit sunwinefest.com or Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/sunwinefest and twitter.com/sunwinefest.
Sun WineFest 2012 is a production of Cirilli Associates LLC, a Connecticut-based marketing firm that specializes in event concepts, event production, and customized marketing and sponsorship programs.
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and meeting destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
Oct 5, 2011 | Food & Beverage, Special Events
3rd Annual Mohegan Sun WineFest Grape Stomp and the 8th Annual Mohegan Sun Oyster Open will highlight Sun WineFest weekend
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 5, 2011) – Grape stompers and oyster shuckers show off their skills during the Grand Tasting at Sun WineFest 2012. Guests can watch the competitions play out as part of their Grand Tasting admission on Saturday, January 28th and Sunday, January 29th.
Mohegan Sun WineFest Grape Stomp Presented by Ciroc Ultra Premium Vodka
Things will get a little messy as teams try to out-run, jump and stomp the competition during the 3rd Annual Mohegan Sun WineFest Grape Stomp. The event will begin on January 28th at 4:15pm on the main stage in the Uncas Ballroom during the Grand Tasting. Sixteen teams will bare their feet and have three minutes to stomp as much grape juice as they can out of a vat of grapes. The team application for entry can be found at mohegansun.com/grape-stomp.
First place will win $1,500, an overnight stay at Mohegan Sun and a complimentary dinner for two at Todd English’s Tuscany. Second place will take home $1,000 and third will receive $500.00. The top three teams will also win well-deserved pedicures from Elemis Spa. The deadline to enter the competition is January 5, 2012.
The 3rd Annual Mohegan Sun WineFest Grape Stomp will benefit the American Diabetes Association.
Mohegan Sun Oyster Open presented by Bud Light Lime
Sun WineFest brings back the fan-favorite 8th Annual Mohegan Sun Oyster Open presented by Bud Light Lime on January 29th at 4:15pm.
Professional shuckers from the best restaurants, raw bars and shellfish and seafood companies on the Eastern Seaboard will compete for a first place prize of $3,500 cash and the championship belt. Second and third place winners will receive trophy plaques and will take home $1,000 and $500.00, respectively.
To enter, potential participants can download the application at mohegansun.com/oyster-open. The deadline for Oyster Open registration is January 4, 2012.
Both competitions can be viewed during the Grand Tasting. Tickets for the Grand Tasting are $70.00 for a one-day pass and $120.00 for a weekend pass and may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, sunwinefest.com, over the phone at 1.800.745.3000 or in-person at the Mohegan Sun Box Office. The Grand Tasting runs from 12:00pm – 5:00pm on January 28th and 29th.
For more information on Sun WineFest 2012 events, featured personalities, hours and area hotel information, visit sunwinefest.com or Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/sunwinefest and twitter.com/sunwinefest.
Sun WineFest 2012 is presented by Lexus and is a production of Cirilli Associates LLC, a Connecticut-based marketing firm that specializes in event concepts, event production, and customized marketing and sponsorship programs.
ABOUT CIROC ULTRA PREMIUM VODKA
Cîroc Vodka is an ultra-premium vodka that celebrates the uncommon on every level: from the distilled Mauzac Blanc and Ugni Blanc grapes, grown in the historic Gaillac and Cognac regions of France, to the innovative cold fermentation and maceration techniques usually found in winemaking, to its subtle aromatics and smooth, naturally refined taste. Ciroc Vodka releases the true flavors in every cocktail. The sweet complexity of the distilled grapes draw out and complement the flavors of whatever is mixed with Cîroc Vodka. Add to that Cîroc Vodka’s distinctly clean finish and absence of alcohol burn and you have a most uncommon vodka cocktail experience.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and meeting destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
Sep 1, 2011 | Food & Beverage, General News, Special Events
9th annual event returns to Mohegan Sun on January 27, 28 & 29, 2012
The 9th annual Sun WineFest returns to Mohegan Sun from January 27 through January 29, 2012. Can’t-miss events including the Grand Tasting, Celebrity Chef Dine Around, Elite Cru Tasting, Bourbon Tasting and Bubbles & Bon Bons are on sale now through Ticketmaster, the Mohegan Sun Box Office or sunwinefest.com.
Grand Tasting
The weekend’s main event is the Grand Tasting, which will be held in the Convention Center from 12:00pm to 5:00pm on Saturday, January 28th and Sunday, January 29th. Main Stage events and celebrity chef demonstrations during the Grand Tasting include demonstrations from Bobby Flay, Todd English, Robert Irvine, the Mohegan Sun WineFest Grape Stomp, the 8th annual Mohegan Sun Oyster Open and more.
During the Grand Tasting, guests can sample more than 1,000 fine wines and specialty beers. Guests can ask questions, hear commentary from winemakers and beer experts, and enjoy delicacies from some of the region’s finest restaurants by purchasing tasting portions of signature dishes at a nominal rate. Exhibitors showcasing related services such as wine storage, culinary accessories and specialty foods will also be featured.
Tickets are $70.00 for a one-day pass and $120.00 for a weekend pass. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Channel 3 Kids Camp.
Celebrity Chef Dine Around
Complementing the Sun WineFest 2012 weekend is the Celebrity Chef Dine Around. This guest-favorite benefiting the Channel 3 Kids Camp will feature an all-star culinary lineup.
The evening will feature delectable dishes prepared by world-famous chefs, television celebrities and cookbook authors including Bobby Flay, Todd English, Jasper White, Donatella Arpaia and Robert Irvine. Each dish will be paired with extraordinary wines whose winemakers will be on-hand to meet and greet guests.
The Celebrity Chef Dine Around takes place in the Uncas Ballroom on Saturday, January 28th from 8:00pm to 11:00pm. Tickets are $175.00 per person.
Elite Cru Tasting
The Elite Cru Tasting returns to Sun WineFest in The Cabaret Theatre on Saturday, January 28th from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. It offers select vintages from premium wineries (Silver Oak Napa Valley, Antinori Solaia, Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia, Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard Merlot, to name a few) accompanied by scrumptious hors d’oeuvres. This unique event will give guests an opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with some of the best winemakers in the world in an intimate setting.
Tickets for the Elite Cru Tasting are $200.00 and include a Saturday Grand Tasting ticket.
Bourbon Tasting
The Bourbon Tasting presented by Beam Global Spirits and Wine returns and will kick off the weekend on Friday, January 27th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Leffingwells Martini Bar. Guests will be able to enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres under the world’s largest indoor planetarium dome and taste a variety of fine bourbons including Maker’s Mark, Booker’s, Knob Creek and Jim Beam, among others. A dedicated space will also be provided for a premium cigar sampling hosted by Davidoff ─ one of the world’s most sought-after cigars.
Tickets are $90.00 per person and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Channel 3 Kids Camp.
Bubbles & Bon Bons
Ending the Sun WineFest 2012 weekend is the Bubbles & Bon Bons event in The Cabaret Theatre from 6:00pm to 9:00pm on Sunday, January 29th. Bubbles & Bon Bons will give guests a chance to sample a variety of high-end champagnes, chocolates and cheeses and will be a perfect way to conclude the Sun WineFest weekend. Tickets are $95.00 per person.
For more information on Sun WineFest 2012 events, featured personalities, hours and area hotel information, visit sunwinefest.com or Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/sunwinefest and twitter.com/sunwinefest.
Tickets to the weekend events are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log onto Tickemaster.com; call Ticketmaster’s national toll free Charge by Phone number 1.800.745.3000; or visit any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office or sunwinefest.com.
Sun WineFest is a production of Cirilli Associates LLC, a Connecticut-based marketing firm that specializes in event concepts, event production, and customized marketing and sponsorship programs.
Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular entertainment, gaming, shopping and dining destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com.
