CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

Hosted by The Laurel Hotel & Spa and 1856 – Culinary Residence at Auburn University’s new Rane Center, the second installment of the incredible Epicurean Experience returns Jan. 20 to 22.

The weekend will feature visiting Atlanta guest chefs Ford Fry and Bob Ryan, as well as four Master Sommeliers.

In addition to 1856’s very-own Master Sommelier, Thomas Price, attendees can expect a full line up of wine presenters, including:

– Nick Hetzel, Master Sommelier

– Jeff Stewart, General Manager & Winemaker of Hartford Family Winery

– And Michelle Schmitt, Certified Specialist of Wine, WSET III, Region Manager of Jackson Family Wines.

This experience features a jam-packed three-day itinerary, including a welcome reception, breakfast, a cooking demo & lunch, a private nine-course tasting menu at 1856 – Culinary Residence and a farewell brunch. In the scheduled leisure time, guests can book a treatment at the luxurious hotel spa, explore downtown Auburn or visit the rooftop for cocktails.

Wine Presenter Schedule:

• Friday – Evening Rooftop Welcome Reception

• Nick Hetzel

• Thomas Price

• Saturday – Cooking Demonstration & Lunch

• Jeff Stewart

• Nick Hetzel

• Michelle Schmitt

• Saturday – Nine-Course Tasting Menu Dinner at 1856

• Jeff Stewart

• Nick Hetzel

• Michelle Schmitt

• Thomas Price

PRICE: $575 per person (including tax & gratuity). Cost includes all meals, pairings, cooking demonstrations and tasting experiences for the full three-day itinerary. Hotel reservations are not included in the ticket price.

RESERVATIONS: Hotel reservations at The Laurel Hotel & Spa are required for two nights. Reservations can be made by visiting www.thelaurelhotelandspa.com.