Two Master Sommeliers are going to go head-to-head in a menu showdown. We’re turning the Feinstien's stage into a cage.
SOMM SMACKDOWN: A WINE DINNER SHOWDOWN
BLACK TIE EVENT, Doors open 7pm, Dinner at 730pm
- $175 per guest
- September 24
- Jackson Family Wines
- Five-Course Wine Dinner
- Master Sommeliers Emily Pickral & Larry O’Brien
- Supporting First Responders — A portion of proceeds will benefit the Carmel Police Department as local first responders.
- Silent Auction — Bid on exclusive experiences and items, with proceeds supporting first responders.
ABOUT THE EVENT
Three rounds. Four hotels. One ultimate champion.
This fall, Somm Smackdown brings Master Sommeliers from across the Coury Hospitality portfolio together for a wine competition where every pairing and every vote brings us one step closer to crowning the ultimate champion.
On September 24, Hotel Carmichael hosts Round One, welcoming Master Sommeliers Emily Pickral and Larry O’Brien for an unforgettable five-course wine dinner and head-to-head pairing competition.
Throughout the evening, guests will taste and compare competing wine pairings alongside Executive Chef Chris Coorts’ specially created five-course menu. Then, it’s your call. Guests will vote on the pairings, with the winning Sommelier advancing to the next round of the competition.
And this isn’t your typical wine dinner. We’re transforming the Feinstein’s stage into a culinary cage for a night of incredible food, exceptional wine, fierce competition, and plenty of surprises.
Your ticket includes the complete Round One experience at Hotel Carmichael. From there, the competition continues at other Coury Hospitality properties as the winning Sommeliers battle their way toward the ultimate championship.
Presented by Jackson Family Wines and Coury Hospitality
Emcee: Matt Carroll
THE MENU
Executive Chef Chris Coorts has created a menu specifically for this competition, showcasing bold flavors, unexpected combinations, and ingredients inspired by Indiana.
COURSE 1
Sweet Corn Velouté, Roasted Delicata Squash, Cranberry Bean Succotash, Sunflower Seeds, Maple-Sage Oil
COURSE 2
Smoked Freshwater Trout, Pawpaw-Cucumber Relish, Pickled Ramps, Corn Crisp
COURSE 3
Hickory Roasted Indiana Mushrooms, Blue Corn Cake, Charred Corn, Cranberry Gastrique
COURSE 4
Bison, Butternut Squash, Blackberry Reduction, Roasted Root Vegetable, Pan Reduction
COURSE 5
Pawpaw Panna Cotta, Persimmon Compote, Maple Caramel, Black Walnut Crumble, Cornmeal Tuile
SUPPORTING FIRST RESPONDERS
The evening will also feature a silent auction benefiting first responders, with proceeds supporting the Carmel Police Department.
BLACK TIE ATTIRE
Black tie means formal, elevated eveningwear. Think sophisticated, glamorous, and ready for a night at the theater.
Women: Formal full-length gown or elegant floor-length evening attire
Men: Tuxedo or formal dark suit with a dress shirt and tie or bow tie