Aspen's Historic Hotel Jerome Returns with Expanded Culinary Programming
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection will host the sixth annual Epicurean Passport Weekend June 18-21, transforming the 137-year-old Aspen landmark into a concentrated culinary destination with programming spanning coffee masterclasses, wine tastings, chef dinners, and cocktail experiences.
The weekend will culminate with "The Winner's Table," an intimate Saturday dinner hosted by the winner of Bravo's Top Chef Season 23 (to be announced June 8). Other major programming includes "Night of SHE," a multi-course dinner celebrating female chefs and winemakers, and a Sunday recovery brunch featuring PopUp Bagels and Petrossian.
Curated Experiences and Partnerships
Friday's agenda opens with Felix Roasting Co. leading a coffee tasting and masterclass featuring rare specialty filter coffees paired with pastries. The afternoon shifts to wine with a "Judgment of Paris" 50-year retrospective, where participating wineries including Chateau Montelena, Freemark Abbey, and Heitz Cellars will pour library and current releases.
After-hours programming includes Felix After Hours, a DJ-driven event at Felix Roasting Co. with Belvedere cocktails (open to walk-ins), and a two-night takeover of the underground speakeasy Bad Harriet by legendary cocktail institution Death & Co., serving drinks featuring LALO Tequila.
"We are pleased to welcome back Epicurean Passport, a beloved tradition at our historic property, inviting guests to experience a dynamic weekend shaped by leading culinary talent and innovators in food and beverage," says Stephane Lacroix, general manager of Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection. "The weekend blends the key elements that define Hotel Jerome: world-class culinary offerings, distinctive design, bespoke partnerships, and a passionate community."
Female Chef Focus and Industry Talent
Night of SHE brings together four pioneering chefs: James Beard Awards finalist Daisy Ryan of Bell's in Los Alamos; Melissa Perello of Frances and Octavia; Suzanne Tracht of Jar; and Sofia Cortina, named Latin America's Best Pastry Chef in 2020. The dinner will be served in Waterford crystal with wines from women-led producers including Laurent-Perrier, Flowers Vineyards & Winery, Quintessa, and Faust Wines.
Saturday's "Tasting Library" includes sessions with Estate Director Jen Beloz of Flowers Vineyards & Winery discussing Sonoma Coast Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, alongside a Petrossian and Laurent-Perrier caviar-and-champagne masterclass featuring curated Grand Siècle cuvées.
Design and Creative Direction
Rafanelli Events returns for its fourth year as creative partner. "Hotel Jerome is a property that already tells a story the moment you walk through the door, and Epicurean Passport Weekend is our opportunity to deepen that narrative through design," said Bryan Rafanelli, founder of Rafanelli Events. "Every detail, from opening night to the intimate dinner settings within Prospect, is an intentional expression of the spirit of Aspen and the legacy of this remarkable property."
Thursday's opening Farmer's Market event in Hotel Jerome's courtyard will feature passed bites from three Auberge Collection chefs: Anthony Stagnaro of Bear at Stanly Ranch (Napa), Cornelis Suhr of White Barn Inn (Maine), and Michel DeCicco of Linnette's at The Dunlin (South Carolina).
Community Support and Ticket Information
The Aspen Institute, founded in Aspen in 1949, will receive 10% of weekend ticket sales. The institute works to address society's greatest challenges through dialogue, leadership, and action.
Limited tickets are available for the full Epicurean Passport weekend package or individual events à la carte through Hotel Jerome's website. The event is distinct from the Aspen Food & Wine Classic.
Why It Matters
For luxury hospitality operators, the Epicurean Passport model demonstrates how to leverage celebrity chef talent, high-end brand partnerships, and immersive experiences to drive premium revenue during peak season. The event's sixth-year tenure signals strong demand for curated multi-day culinary events at luxury properties, particularly when anchored by recognizable TV talent and women-forward programming that reflects contemporary dining industry values.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors