Cheers, Prost, Salud, Santé: The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Transports Guests Around the World of Wine
With its Umstead Uncorked Series
CARY, N.C. – May 14, 2015 – A passport isn’t necessary to explore the world with sommelier Hai Tran of The Umstead Hotel and Spa. The hotel’s beloved Umstead Uncorked series continues this summer and autumn, transporting guests and locals on a journey to lands both near and far, diving into the distinct wines of each region. Tran – who oversees the hotel’s award-winning wine program – presents four tastings during each class to educate budding wine enthusiasts and inspire connoisseurs.
Umstead Uncorked takes place in The Umstead’s Fireplace Lounge from 6-7 p.m. and each class is $40 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 919-447-4000.
Umstead Uncorked Summer/Fall 2015 Schedule:
Wines of South Africa, May 28
The unique climate and myriad of soil types found in the Western Cape have brought nice notoriety to South Africa’s wine program. Guests will discover the selections that have been surprising sommeliers and wine specialists across the nation.
Red, White, and You! : A Wine Tour of Virginia and North Carolina, June 25
Tran will explore the broader world of American wine as seen through the emerging viticulture of Virginia and North Carolina. He’ll reveal a number of amazing producers that are crafting worthy competition to their West Coast brethren.
Wines of Portugal, Aug. 20
Portugal is arguably one of the hottest up-and-coming areas for world-class reds, with attention now turned to wines from grapes like Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Trincadeira. The class will take a deeper dive into this emerging wine region.
Australia’s Next Chapter, Sept. 24
Australia’s vintners are in the midst of a renaissance as the next generation moves beyond the big, so called “fruit bombs” that previously defined Australian reds. This Umstead Uncorked session will explore the country’s multi-faceted wine industry through the wines of those guiding its next chapter.
Trick or Treat? The Art of Deductive Tasting, Oct. 29
Deductive tasting, more commonly known as blind tasting, is a method utilized by sommeliers and members of the wine trade to hone their palates, while training themselves to assess wine. To the public eye, this might be perceived as a trick or a feat requiring a naturally talented palate, but with some guidance and training, anyone can utilize the methodology of deductive tasting to better one’s palate. Guests will learn the process and receive guidance on how to put words to the flavors during this fun and engaging session, organized classroom-style.
Wines to be Thankful For, Nov. 19
Warner Allen once said, “Great wine is a work of art. It sharpens the wit, gladdens the heart, and stimulates all that is most generous in human nature.” With the last Umstead Uncorked of 2015, Tran will share the styles, types and producers of wines for which he is most thankful. It will be an opportunity to sample his favorites and guests will come away with ideas for their holiday party planning.
About The Umstead Hotel and Spa
The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a singular, sophisticated triumph in North Carolina’s northeastern Piedmont region, an area rich in beauty and rooted in innovation. The state’s most highly rated hotel, it boasts stunning interiors punctuated with privately curated fine art, 150 spacious guest rooms and suites, world-class cuisine, a stimulating spa, gracious staff, and a serene woodland setting. The Umstead is a recipient of both the AAA Five Diamond award and Forbes Five Star rating. For more information, visit www.theumstead.com.
