Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/61075
SOUTH BEACH PARTY Flippin' on the Grill T CELEBRITY CHEFS FIRE IT UP AT THE SIXTH ANNUAL AMSTEL LIGHT BURGER BASH AT SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FEST Guests at the 2012 Amstel Light Burger Bash at SOBE had the opportunity to sample the brand's newest addition to the portfolio, Amstel Wheat. he leading imported light beer from Amsterdam—Amstel Light—raised a glass to the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival in honor of the 11th year of the pres- tigious event. Celebrity chef, author and talk show star Rachael Ray hosted the sixth annual Amstel Light Burger Bash on the white sands of South Beach. Often touted as the "go-to event of the Festival," the Amstel Light Burger Bash gathered the best chefs from kitchens all over the nation, giving them the opportunity to show off their unique spin on this American classic in the ultimate burger showdown. This year, Amstel Light welcomed Zakary Pelaccio as the brand's official Amstel Light Burger Bash chef. Classically trained at the French Culinary Institute, Pelaccio is the founder of the critically- acclaimed restaurants Fatty 'Cue and Fatty Crab in New York City. Known for his funky interpretations of traditional Southeast Asian cuisine, Pelaccio put a twist on the classic burger, making the Amstel Light station a key stop for festival-goers. "As a long-standing partner and supporter of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival, we are delighted to once again be the official sponsor of the Sixth-Annual Amstel Light Burger Bash," said Colin Westcott-Pitt, VP Marketing, Amstel Light, Heineken USA. "Amstel Light is thrilled to partner with Chef Pelaccio and have him representing the brand throughout the festival, creating exciting new dishes to pair with Amstel Light's rich, full flavor." "The burger that we cooked up is a perfect representation of the Fatty flavors I love and Amstel Light's commitment to great taste," commented Pelaccio. Adult guests over the age of 21 at the 2012 Amstel Light Burger Bash, presented by Allen Brothers Steaks and Diet Pepsi, had the unique opportunity to sample Amstel Wheat, a traditional European hefeweizen that was recently released in select U.S. markets last year. Amstel Wheat is touted as "the Bier Drinker's Wheat." 120 / the tasting panel / april 2012