UNLVino Announces Lineup with Celebrated Grand Tasting as Finale

Photos of 2022 UNLVino by Ali Becker @knottedrosephoto

ino returns, in partnership with Southern Glazer’s Wine, Spirits & Beer of Nevada and the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, with the 49th Annual UNLVino Food and Wine Festival.

UNLVino continues its unique twist on the special event with “UNLVino Presents,” an epicurean experience designed to take taste buds on a culinary journey.

UNLVino Presents expanded its Bon Vivant Dining Series to include immersive dining experiences. Chef Hunter Fieri, UNLV Executive Chef Mark Sandoval, and hospitality students will host the final dinner at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The dinner and wine pairing on April 20 will feature a four-course meal plated for 40 inside Hospitality Hall featuring wine pairings from Chef Fieri’s winery, Hunt and Ryde.

Entering its 49th year, UNLVino’s The Grand Tasting returns on April 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. with a guest list limited to 500 attendees. The flagship event will continue its elevated, more exclusive experience before ramping up for a historic bash in its 50th year. UNLVino continues to bring together the best chefs, distillers, winemakers, and brew masters from around the globe designed to create new opportunities for university students. The event, developed by university alumni in 1974, has raised millions of dollars to fund scholarships for the students of UNLV William F. Harrah College of Hospitality. It remains one of the longest traditions at UNLV.

The UNLV Harrah College of Hospitality is consistently ranked as one of the top hospitality programs in the world. Studying just blocks away from the epicenter of the entertainment capital of the world, the Las Vegas Strip. UNLV hospitality students enjoy unparalleled access to hands-on, industry-relevant experience. Each year the college organizes nearly 600 internships, welcomes more than 100 national hospitality brands to recruitment events, and pairs industry mentors with students.

To purchase tickets and more information, visit unlvino.com. Follow on @ UNLVINO49 and @ unlvhospitality.

by Aakash Patel @nycaakash @mezcalhotel

In 2020, I founded the Mezcal Hotel, a phygital (physical plus digital) community that celebrates the culture, traditions, rituals and ceremonies of agave by creating immersive experiences that educate and inspire. Agave spirits are deeply ingrained in Mexican culture and tradition, and their popularity has helped to bring attention to the rich history and heritage of this region. This cultural significance has helped to make them more appealing to consumers who are interested in learning about different cultures.

Agave spirits like tequila and mezcal have a unique and complex flavor profile that sets them apart from other spirits like vodka or whiskey. This taste is a result of the agave plant's natural sweetness and the way it's processed during production. Mezcal has a distinctive smoky flavor that sets it apart from other spirits like tequila. This flavor is due to the way it's made, which involves roasting the agave plant before fermenting and distilling it.

Agave is a highly sustainable crop that requires minimal water and can grow in arid regions where other crops would struggle. Additionally, agave can be harvested over the course of several years, which helps to reduce soil erosion and preserve natural resources. “Art of Agave will feature stories that showcase the past, present and future of what makes agave special.

Agave has been a significant plant in the culture and history of Mexico for thousands of years. It has been used for making food, beverages, medicine, and various household items.

Agave spirits, such as tequila and mezcal, are widely considered to be some of the most luxurious and special alcoholic beverages in the world. From their unique flavor profiles to their cultural significance, there are many reasons why agave spirits are highly prized by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

One of the main reasons that agave spirits are considered luxurious is their rarity. Agave plants take several years to mature, and once harvested, they cannot be used again. This means that the production of agave-based spirits is limited, with only a certain amount of bottles available each year. Some highend tequila and mezcal brands even produce their spirits in small batches, making them highly exclusive and sought-after.

Agave spirits are special because of their cultural significance. These spirits have been an important part of Mexican culture for thousands of years, with tequila and mezcal being deeply tied to the history and traditions of the country. Drinking agave spirits can be a way to celebrate and honor this rich heritage, adding to their appeal and perceived value.

Agave spirits are also considered luxurious because of the experiences and memories associated with drinking them. Sipping a high-quality tequila or mezcal can be a special and memorable occasion, whether enjoyed with friends or sipped solo. Many of these spirits are served in elegant glassware and are often paired with food, adding to the overall luxurious experience.