Sipping styles abound in Maui with bartender specialists, wine connoisseurs and world foremost mixologists infusing timeless elements and refreshing twists to the beverage scene, appealing to a diverse audience.
At The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas, renowned mixologists Francesco LaFranconi and Manny Hinojosa introduced sustainable cocktails using locally-grown herbs and fruits. Partnering the resort’s chefs, they created delightful drinks to be paired with signature menu specials at the restaurants including the award-winning Pulehu, an Italian Grill.
As the executive director of mixology and spirits educator for Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada, Francesco has the ingredients — the education, the expertise, the enthusiasm— to stir up his audiences and pour on the charm as he schools on the finer points of fine drinking.
In addition to trendy cocktail scenes, notable wine dinner events continue to make headlines in the island’s culinary experiences. Restaurant manager Mark Gleason is often researching and including valuable finds to his extensive wine list at Pulehu, an Italian Grill. “If we followed the rules, we would have a predominantly Italian wine list. We made the decision to throw out the rule book and select wines that our guests have come to love and enjoy. Some of our selections are well reviewed by respected wine publications, while others have yet to be reviewed,” said Mark. The extensive wine list at Pulehu and distinctive wine dinner events has earned the restaurant the distinction of Wine Spectator Award in 2013.
Over at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, upcoming bartender specialist Fred (Freddie) Sconfienza was awarded the title of starMixologist at the 2013 Sales Kickoff in Florida. Organized by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, over 2,000 attendees including general managers, directors of sales & marketing and senior leadership from properties and corporate offices of Starwood Hotels & Resorts (North America Division) attended the annual conference where Freddie together with three regional finalists presented their cocktails for selection of the best. Freddie’s innovative cocktail “Dragonberry Bomb” wooed the crowd, making it a thrilling win for Freddie.
Freddie’s versatility flair presents him unique opportunities while he is manning the bar at Westin Maui’s Relish Burger Bistro. “I typically let my customers give me a direction, then customize a drink that I think they will truly enjoy. If I’m making something light and fresh, I enjoy working with Gin. Lately, I have been using cognacs and aged rums paired with fruits and citrus for a beverage with a deeper flavor profile,” said Freddie.
