Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/961311
98 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } APRIL/MAY 2018 GIVEN HIS LONG-STANDING involvement in the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, The SOMM Journal posed three questions to Michael Jordan, MS, CWE, and Director of Global Key Accounts at Jackson Family Wines, in preparation for the 37th annual event set for June 7–10 in Maui, Hawaii. The SOMM Journal: What is one of your favorite memories from Kapalua? Michael Jordan: One night a jam session broke out in the Ritz-Carlton lobby with [chef] Dean Fearing, Jeff Gargiulo [of Gargiulo Vineyards], LA Rams quarterback Vince Fer - ragamo, Fred Scherrer [of Scherrer Winery], [chef] Mark Tarbell and a few winemakers who are great players, and the "Uncorked, Unplugged, and Unleashed Jam" was born! It created this "living-room vibe hang" with chefs and winemakers who happen to be very good musicians. True Kanikapila [Hawaiian slang for "jam session" ] style!" Aside from the revolving seminar content, how do you expect Kapalua 2018 to be different from years past? This year we will continue to elevate the guest's experience. We've expanded the culinary talent with five amazing celebrity chefs: Cat Cora, Hubert Keller, Nancy Oakes, Nancy Silverton, and Mark Tarbell will all be here to celebrate with us. We also have some of the highest quality winemakers in the industry; there will be a winemaker's panel at Merriman's Restaurant in addition to the panels held at the Ritz-Carlton. We're also very excited about the inaugural SOMM Journal International Panel! What sets Kapalua apart from other wine and food festivals? It's the longest running wine and food festival in the U.S., held under the coconut trees on one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The event attracts guests from as far away as China and Japan, and there's always an intimate, welcoming feeling and warm vibe due to the high-quality chefs, winemakers, and presenters engaging the guests. There's also, of course, the incredible beauty of Kapalua and genuine Hawaiian hospitality experience. The Kapalua Resort is located on one of Hawaii's largest privately- owned nature preserves. A Master Reflects MICHAEL JORDAN, MS, LOOKS TO THE PAST AND FUTURE OF THE KAPALUA WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Tasting with a view: Setting up for a seminar at Merriman's restaurant. Chef Cat Cora with Michael Jordan, MS, at a previous Kapalua Wine & Food Festival.