The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas has set a trendy cocktail scene for an eclectic seasonal experience in Maui, Hawaii. Similar to the farm-to-table concept and the dynamic movement of sustainable cuisine, the four-diamond resort on North Ka’anapali Beach has introduced its own version of farm-to-straw concept. Resort food and beverage director Robert (Bob) Megargle summed it up as introducing a classic twist to the theme of sustainability. “It is the meeting of the minds and possessing the knowledge of what we have already learned in our journeys as we design timeless cocktails and recognize the ingredients in the Hawaiian Islands. The agricultural richness impacts and innovates the characteristics of the cocktail trend,” explained Bob. The resort’s solid partnership with local farmers and vendors complemented the beverage team’s passion to introduce a new cocktail culture and promote Maui and Hawaii as an educational cocktail destination with a vibrant and vivacious edge to “pau hana” sessions and themed events.
As a start, the resort has introduced a series of mixology sessions with these handcrafted cocktails featured at the Ocean Pool Bar & Grill all year round for customers to enjoy. The launch of the first mixologist lesson at the villa resort was in September 2012 during the inaugural Ka’anapali Fresh three-day culinary event showcasing Chandra Lucariello, Director of Mixology for Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawaiii. The fun and engaging mixology lesson was held outdoors and included crafting (and tasting) of distinctive cocktails with the freshest ingredients.
Following shortly was the visit of celebrated mixologist Manny Hinojosa who designed Fall & Winter cocktails, exclusive to the resort. A national award-winning mixologist who creates his own syrups, juices and garnishes, Manny was delightfully surprised to find a herb and fruit garden right in the resort. “The garden-inspired theme made it much easier to explore and experiment with various ingredients
such as freshly grown lemon verbena, Thai chilies, local herbs and others native to the islands. We also created fresh fruit juices and syrups such as Maui sugar cane syrup and Maui pineapple juice to make the cocktails fresh and rich with local flavors,” he elaborated.
Having been to Hawaii several times, Manny commented that he found Hawaii to be a truly extraordinary destination amongst his worldwide travels. “The tropical climate found on the islands of Hawaii helps nurture fruits, vegetables and herbs that we could introduce with a sustainable concept when designing cocktails, similar to the culinary experience and chefs’ partnership with local farmers. It certainly comes in useful when defining cocktail menus for restaurants, bar and night spots,” said Manny. Manny grew up and was educated in Mexico City, and is a cocktail consultant for Guy Fieri and Food Network television shows.
In 2013, yet another world-renowned mixologist will spice up the scene with refreshing Spring and Summer cocktails at The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas. Francesco Lafranconi will explore the island paradise and introduce new delights with his award-winning touches. Visit westinkaanapali.com for more details and to learn more on the mixology sessions.
