Curry is a complex word that embodies multiple meanings in both spice and flavor. In this seminar, guests will learn about the history, technique and varieties of curry, while also delving deep into it’s prominence in cuisines around the world. Open to Connoisseur Pass holders only.
When describing wine, people often use descriptors that are flowery in connotation or denotation... and for good reason. If you are someone who thinks their wine should be as stimulating as a bouquet, this seminar is the one for you. In this learning (and tasting!) experience, guests will be introduced to an array of wines that are reminiscent of floral aromas that we normally only experience through our sense of smell. Discuss the origins of the pairings and what connects the two seemingly separate entities. Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
As Forrest Gump’s pal Bubba mastered the art of shrimp, guests will learn how to get innovative with pasta dough in this Connoisseur tasting seminar. Learn the secrets to an approachable pasta dough and the tricks of adding creative mix-ins. Think pigs blood, squid ink, carrots, and beets. Nothing is off-limits! Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
Believe it or not, tequila is not a spirit that is limited to your vacation margarita! While it is quite different from bourbon, the high-end tequila and high-end bourbon spirits have a lot in common (besides the exquisite flavors of both). In this Connoisseur seminar, attendees will taste and learn about the best of both spirits – Tears of Llorona and Pappy Van Winkle - and discuss the production, origins, similarities and differences between the two reigning spirits. Open to Connoisseur Pass holders only.
Often referred to as the “dining capital of the US,” Houston’s food scene is hot and the ethnic diversity of the city made for fantastic flavor combinations. From Tex-Mex and Creole to Vietnamese, Houston’s foodways are a melding of tradition, international flavors and local ingredients. For our Connoisseur breakfast, Chef Bryan Caswell and friends will tell their Houston food stories though delicious breakfast creations.
A look into the depths of any pantry will uncover a plethora of gastronomic staples waiting patiently for their turn. Although oft ignored, these persevering ingredients can hold their own in the kitchen and will shine when given the chance. During this Connoisseur seminar, participants will learn which of these staples to pull into the spotlight, how to use them to add an innovative twist your recipes, and leave understanding why stocking up on these previously ignored (but essential) pantry foods is the way to go. Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
A naturally beautiful country with a back drop of uninterrupted mountain ranges, South Africa is also the 7th largest producer of wine in the world. With a diverse range of red and white grape varieties, South African wine makers also lead in production integrity and environmental sustainability. In this tasting seminar, guests will taste wines that reflect both the old and the new; fruit-forward styles full of elegance, finesse and restraint.
Like the middle child of the vino world, Champagne is often overlooked when choosing a wine to pair with dinner. In this Connoisseur seminar, participants will taste and learn about three distinctly different sparkling wines and why they should be paired with dinner (and breakfast, and lunch, and snacks, and your favorite TV shows…). Grab your TV trays and your favorite meal, and sit back while we add a little sparkle to your life. Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
For the Festival-goer looking for any reason to celebrate with a bottle of wine, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. In this Connoisseur tasting seminar, join award-winning sommelier Jason Tesauro, of The Modern Gentleman fame, for a flight of six wines celebrating anniversaries this year. These great vintages span three countries and twenty years of sunshine in a bottle. Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
Burgundy is a region that best explains and exemplifies the term "terroir." Guests attending this Connoisseur seminar will explore wines of Burgundy and find answers to their burning questions about the differences in taste between wines of varying vintage, village and winemakers. Taste these differences for yourself and emerge with a better understanding of the term "terroir" and the underlying beauty of the Burgundy region. Open to Connoisseur pass holders only.
Many global cuisines have influenced Southern cooking. Likewise, Southern cooking has influenced many global cuisines, taking something pure and delicious and changing it all around. In this seminar, guests will explore the landscape of interesting cuisines from abroad that have been redefined by American culture, and get to taste the history and flavors behind these dishes as they were in their original state.
