Mixology lessons part of ‘Kaanapali Fresh’

Gathering to taste-test the soon-to-be-launched Kaanapali Golden Ale are (from left) Garrett Marrero of Maui Brewing Company, Tom Bell of Hawaiian Hotels and Resorts and Michael Jokovich, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa. Photo by Steve Brinkman Photography.
KAANAPALI – Custom-signature Bloody Mary drinks, mixology lessons and an exclusive new ale from Maui Brewing Co. are now scheduled to add zing to “Kaanapali Fresh,” a three-day summer event debuting Aug. 31 to Sept. 2.
“We are truly honored to elevate our debut event with the skills of a master mixologist and a nationally celebrated local brewery,” said Shelley Kekuna, executive director of the Kaanapali Beach Resort Association.
“Guests will take away signature drinks and seductive flavors that they’ll associate with the beauty, aloha and abundance of Maui for many years to come.”
During the award-winning brunch at Kaanapali Beach Hotel on Sunday, Sept. 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Chandra Lam Lucariello, director of mixology for Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawaii in Honolulu, will assist guests in creating individualized Bloody Mary drinks inspired by the myriad of flavors and ingredients found in the islands.
Lucariello serves as education director for the Hawaii Chapter of the United States Bartender Guild and has 15 years of experience in the restaurant and bar industry.
“A truly great cocktail can only start with great ingredients,” she said. “I hope that Sunday’s up-and-coming bar chefs will feel drawn to focus on fresh ingredients and think of themselves as artists.”
“Kaanapali Fresh” is proud to offer Lucariello and her guests this starting point thanks to the generous support of two Maui-based luxury spirit providers: Ocean Vodka and Old Lahaina Rum.
Chef Tom Muromoto’s acclaimed brunch cuisine includes fresh Grown on Maui vegetables from Syl’s Produce Company and locally raised lamb from Ulupalakua Ranch.
On Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m., Lucariello will present a mixology lesson in partnership with The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. This interactive, outdoor, ocean-view event includes the crafting (and tasting) of three distinctive cocktails with the freshest ingredients. Attendees will have the chance to talk personally with Lam as they sample the villas’ signature pupus.
On Sunday evening at the “Concert Under the Kaanapali Moonlight” at the Royal Lahaina Resort from 5:30 to 10 p.m., Maui Brewing Co. from Lahaina will join in to launch its eagerly anticipated Kaanapali Golden Ale.
Made with Maui-grown guava, lilikoi and other ingredients, this ale will be available after the concert throughout Kaanapali Beach Resort and at the brewery’s pub, on draft only and while supplies last.
“We love supporting local events, especially when geared towards local products showcasing what the islands provide,” said Garrett Marrero, who founded Maui Brewing Co. with Melanie Oxley in 2005.
“It’s always great to have the opportunity to create something special and educate consumers on why craft beer is so fitting with food. We can’t think of a better venue than a Maui moonlight evening at ‘Kaanapali Fresh.’ “
The event on Sunday night will feature entertainment by Third Eye Blind and creative food prepared by Royal Lahaina Resort chefs. For tickets and information, visit Kaanapalifresh.com.