Innovative Independent Beverage Program
TROUTBECK
Troutbeck , a historic estate hotel in New York ’ s Hudson Valley , has long been committed to creating community and fostering creativity in its food and beverage programs . Following the success of its chef residency program , launched in June 2021 , Troutbeck in February 2022 announced a female-led beverage residency .
Chef Gabe McMackin invited four beverage leaders , each with her own unique perspective and expertise , to enhance Troutbeck ’ s hyperlocal culinary and beverage experience . The women — wine director and educator Lee Campbell ; Greenpoint Cidery founder Nika Carlson ; Victoria James , wine director at Côte Korean steakhouse ; and Gina Correll Aglietti , cofounder of Yola Mezcal — spent time at Troutbeck for multiday residencies March , April , May and June , respectively .
While did these beverage aficionados while on the Amenia , NY-based hotel ’ s property ? Each hosted an educational experience for staff and guests ; curated a list of “ Selects ” on the wine list or created specialty cocktails to be added to the menus ; and hosted a community ticketed experience for Troutbeck ’ s guests , members , local farmers and friends .
Certified sommelier Campbell , a supporter of sustainable vine farming and traditional , low-intervention winemaking techniques kicked off the program in March . She curated a selection of natural wines for her dinner and Chef McMackin built a menu around the wines .
But instead of straight pairings , Campbell encouraged guests to drink more in the style of being in a winemaker ’ s home , where excitement and curiosity dictate the rythm , rather than formal pairings based on flavors or tradition . This approach became a guiding principal for the series as a whole , a clearer reflection of how wine and food lovers imbibe and enjoy today .
Carlson ’ s April residency celebrated the region ’ s deep connection to cider , as her apple trees are all in Hudson , NY ,
The women-led beverage residencies helped enhance Troutbeck ’ s hyperlocal culinary experience .
and her ciders are made in the style of natural wines . For her dinner event , Carlson selected different styles of ciders , including Basque cider Isa Stegi and Vermont producer Eden ’ s ice cider , in addition to some of her own cuvées .
Some of the other standout activities that took place during the residencies include Foraging & Sipping with Victoria James , and Gina Correll Aglietti ’ s Poolside Mezcal Workshop . Correll Aglietti ’ s residency included special guest Yana Volfson , beverage director for chef Enrique Olvera ’ s New York restaurants Cosme , Atla and Damian . Volfson created mezcal subtle cocktails to pair with a dinner of local Hudson Valley produce and seafood .
The series aims to bring varied voices to Troutbeck ’ s culinary program and introduce their perspectives to the community , while simultaneously “ turning the table ” on what it means to be hospitable — by extending that credo of care to members of the hospitality industry .
The female-led beverage series was a resounding success , according to Troutbeck . Attendees commented after each residency that the experience had opened both their minds and their palates in new ways . — MD
Dinner during Greenpoint Cidery founder Nika Carlson ’ s residency .
14 • BevX Issue 2022 www . cheersonline . com