Ski season ain't over till it's over; and end-of season days call for the time-honored tradition of après ski (margarita anyone?). So revered is this staple of snow culture, a festival has been created around it: March 13-16 marks the second annual Après Ski Cocktail Classic, held in collaboration with the Westin Snowmass Resort. Industry experts like Steve "Wine Geek" Olson, Tad Carducci, and Aspen's own Jimmy Yeager will be on hand to school you in the tricks and history of the trade. Tickets are still available (for VIP Passes, Local's rates, special dinners, seminars, parties…the choice is yours). It's last call for boozy events like Raclette, Cheese Fondue, and Champagne Pairings (with The Little Nell wine director and MS Carlton McCoy and SkiCo executive chef Jim Butchart); Pop-ups dedicated to hot toddies and spirited coffee and cocoa; Slopeside Grand Tastings; Private Reserve Tastings (we could tell you more, but then we'd have to kill you); an ice-cutting demo and seminar; and seminars on Amari, Gin, Absinthe, Barrel-Aging Cocktails at Home and the Science and History of Liqueurs (DIY blending of your very own cordial included) round-up the buzzy line-up. But there's also Glenfiddich Fireside @ Ullr Nights at Elk Camp (drinking slopeside Scotch by firelight? Yes, please), and paired cocktail dinners at Pine Creek Cookhouse, Eight K at the Viceroy, and Snowmass Kitchen. (Night)cap the weekend off with The Great Après Ski Cocktail Classic Pub Crawl. Now, take two aspirin (or try these hangover cures) and call us in the morning.
-By Laurel Miller
· Après Ski Cocktail Classic [Official Site]
· All Eater Ski Coverage [Curbed Ski Archives]