Whatever your passion is–yoga, gardening, steak–Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is allowing guests to enjoy it to the fullest with its new Passion Project experiences. For those foodies out there, the Scottsdale resort offers several one-of-a-kind tasting events. I have the chance to try the kobe beef and tequila tastings and they are not to be missed. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:
Snake River Farms American Kobe Beef Tasting at Michael Mina’s BOURBON STEAK
Taste buds will find their passion with premium cuts of beef, prepared to perfection at BOURBON STEAK. This unique presentation features three selections of American Wagyu beef from Idaho’s Snake River Farms, each in generous four-ounce portions and showcased using different preparation such as smoked, grilled or braised. The trio is then complemented by Chef Daniel Patino’s selection of three seasonal sides. This tasting option can be ordered off the menu Monday-Saturday from 5:30-10 p.m. for $85.
Demystifying Tequila at La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval
Some equate tequila with a worm and maybe a salty memory or two from college. Tequila Goddess Danielle Griffin debunks any myths by taking guests on a sensory journey of tequila, sharing the distinct characteristics of reposado, añejo and blanco from quality makers Herradurra, 7 Leguas and Tequila Ocho. This special tequila experience is available in La Hacienda’s tasting room, Tuesday-Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to close for $30 per person. Reservations are recommended. Tequila flights can also be experienced at the bar or during dinner and prices vary. Griffin, an expert in tequila, recently returned from her second trip to Mexico where she earned a diploma from Mexico’s Tequila Regulatory Council (the only institution to verify and certify the compliance of Tequila with the Mexican Official Standard). This “Award T” accreditation, similar to a sommelier, enables her to provide guests and fellow La Hacienda staff with more in-depth knowledge of this special spirit and the assurance that the restaurant’s unique selection of more than 140 tequilas are all certified.
West to South Pinot Noir Tasting at The Grill at TPC Scottsdale
Oenophiles and novices alike may join The Grill’s sommelier for a Pinot Noir tour from West to Southwest, appreciating the details of Argyle Nuthouse from Willamette Valley, Ore., Robert Mondavi Carneros from Napa Valley, Calif., and Gruet from Albuquerque, N.M. The tasting of three wines is $30 and is available Tuesday-Saturday from 4 p.m. to close at The Grill. A complimentary shuttle from the resort to the TPC Scottsdale is available.
AZ Beer Tasting at The Grill at TPC Scottsdale
This tasting features three locally-crafted, freshly-brewed beers from the San Tan Brewing Co., based in Chandler, Ariz. Beer tasters decipher the distinct characteristics of Devil’s Ale, HefeWeizen Wheat and Epicenter Amber Ale, all while snacking on Snyder’s Pretzels with jalapeño ranch dip. The tasting is $14 and is available daily from noon to 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the bar.
Bourbon Flights at BOURBON STEAK
Only whiskey that has been produced in the United States can actually be called Bourbon. This type of American whiskey must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51 percent corn and is required to be distilled to no more than 160 proof. Guests further explore these and more fascinating facts about America’s special spirit, with a choice of three bourbon flights: the “Single Barrel” flight of Eagle Rare Single Barrel 10 year, Evan Williams Single Barrel and Four Roses Single Barrel; the “Three B’s” includes tastings of Blanton’s, Booker’s and Basil Hayden, or the “Rye Way” flight featuring R1, Sazerac and Russel’s Rye. Flights range from $16 – $19 and are available Monday – Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to close. Reservations are preferred.
Southwest Bloody Marys Made Tableside at LV Bistro
A spicy way to greet the day: LV Bistro’s new Southwest Bloody Marys made tableside, featuring regional products including Tito’s Handmade Vodka from Austin, TX., with raw horseradish, fresh marinated vegetables, Worcestershire and Southwest spices. Guests receive a recipe card and a packet of the “secret spices” to recreate this experience at home. The price is $15 per person and is available 6:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. daily. http://www.scottsdaleprincess.com/.
Passion Project at Scottsdale Resort
