What does fire taste like in a glass? How about the earth? In this inventive and interactive wine and food pairing experience, internationally acclaimed wine critic and former Wine Enthusiast editor-in-chief Susan Kostrzewa guides guests through six regional wines and thoughtfully paired bites — each one an edible expression of one of the four elements. From fiery smokiness and spice to the effervescent verve of bubbles, savory, terroir-driven flavors, and the bright, airy lift of the unexpected, every pairing tells a story rooted in the extraordinary bounty of northern Michigan's farms, orchards, vineyards and waters.
Award-winning chef Freeman Gunnell joins the experience with live demonstrations and culinary insight, while surprise winemaker appearances add an insider energy to the afternoon. Along the way, Susan and Freeman lead a deep dive into each wine and dish, explore local food and wine trends, and share practical techniques for recreating inspired pairings at home — making this as educational as it is delicious.
Course 1/Air
Chicken salad parfait with Idyll Farms whipped goat cheese and Bean Rows Bakery sourdough bread croutons paired with Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery Sparking Auxerrois
Course 2/Water
Chilled white gazpacho soup with a pea/herb puree swirl paired with Brengman Family Wines Riesling Trocken
Course 3/Earth
Mushroom pastry purses paired with Good Harbor Vineyards Pinot Noir-Zweigelt and Shady Lane Cellars Blaufrankisch
Course 4/Fire
Burritt’s Market grilled bratwurst, roasted tomatoes and Great Lakes Potato Chips BBQ chips paired with Left Foot Charley Chardonnay and 2 Lads Winery Reserve Cabernet Franc