Uncorked Features 5 Chefs, Hawaiian Music and WINE!

Uncorked is fantastic for those of you who enjoy an outdoor food and wine event without the crowds. This year they are raising money for VASH, which supports tourists who find themselves in crisis while they are visiting here. Since I write for the benefit of many visitors, VASH is a great non-profit for me to support and promote! Here are the details:

The Shops at Mauna Lani “Uncorked” Food & Wine Festival on Saturday, November 14, 2015 is a one-night getaway for those who love exceptional food and wine, in the friendly, open-air atmosphere of The Shops at Mauna Lani. Running from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., attendees are invited to sample special dishes from eight top Hawai‘i chefs as well as a variety of wines from around the world, craft beer and other libations. The festival benefits the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai‘i Island (VASH) which assists Hawai‘i visitors touched by adversity during their stay.

VASH, a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides supportive services to help visitors cope with adversity, from a lost wallet to a serious medical situation or the death of a loved one. In 2015 so far, VASH has seen a significant increase in visitor requests, increasing the need to train and recruit people to help handle the increased workload while maintaining spirit of Aloha in difficult situations.

A highlight of this year’s festival is “Mele‘uhane,” the melodic collaboration of Keikilani Lindsey and son Leokani, fifth and sixth-generation Hawaiian musicians and storytellers. Their first duo album, “Mele‘uhane” (spirit of the music) was a Hōkū Hanohano nominee this year, and they are often invited to play with John Cruz, Henry Kapono and other Hawaiian music stars.

The “Uncorked” dining experience features food tastings from the “izakaya-style” menu of Monstera, European flavors of The Blue Room, upscale vegan cuisine from Under the Bodhi Tree, contemporary island style by Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar, and the traditional sizzle of Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

Guests will also be among the first to taste selections from the new Mai Grille by Allen Hess, plus items from Village Burger of Waimea and Shiono Sushi Mauna Lani.

 

Young’s Market and Southern Wine and Spirits will be presenting wines from around the world, while craft brews from Kona Brewing Company will be available to toast the occasion. Tickets are $50 in advance, $70 on the day of the event. A silent auction will be held the night of the event. As a special bonus, ticket holders will not only receive great offers from participating stores and restaurants at The Shops at Mauna Lani on the night of the event, they will also be able to show their “Uncorked Passport” during future visits for additional discounts valued at over $100.

Tickets are limited and may be purchased from participating stores and restaurants at The Shops at Mauna Lani including Tommy Bahama Restaurant, The Blue Room, Monstera, Under the Bodhi Tree, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, The Fine Hawaiian Gift Gallery, Third Dimension Gallery, Lahaina Gallery, or buy online at www.BrownPaperTickets.com. Tickets will also be available for sale from VASH members.

For more information, call 808-885-9501, or visit www.ShopsAtMaunaLani.com.