When the weather turns cold, those in the know head to the cozy hideaway tucked beneath the Jedediah Hawkins Inn in Jamesport. A place where the fireplace warms stone walls and brick floors, and spirits are served over a handcrafted bar to warm the soul. Complete with trapdoors and a special “secret” entrance, it’s the perfect space for the Inn’s intimate “Sessions in the Speakeasy.”
The special series of winter workshops will be led by some of the best, most approachable experts in their fields. In a nod to the wealth of high-quality wine, beer and spirits made on Long Island’s East End, these sessions will feature locally made products served with a locally sourced signature tasting menu prepared by the Inn’s Executive Chef Richard Kanowsky.
This three-session exploration features different—and delicious—aspects of Long Island-made wine, spirits and craft beer.
Friday, Dec. 13
Daring Pairings: Scary-good wine and food match-ups
Joshua Wesson, award-winning sommelier, author and founder of Best Cellars
While it’s fairly well known that white wine goes with fish, and red wine with meat, such traditional food-and-wine pairing rules often rise to the level of superstitions (e.g., break them and bad things will happen). But on this Friday the 13th, Mr. Weston will lead a brave band of fearless foodies in a gustatory journey through five plated pairings that dare to be different. Guests will receive a signed copy of Josh’s book, Williams-Sonoma Wine & Food—A New Look at Flavor. Kareem Massoud from Paumanok Vineyards is also scheduled to participate in the discussion.
Friday, Jan. 10
Cocktails of the Gold Coast
Allen Katz, cocktail historian and co-founder of New York Distilling Company
From New York City to Long Island’s East End, there is a deep—and expanding—spirit world all around us. On Jan. 10, spirits expert Allen Katz will guide guests through the rich history and delicious proliferation of local distilled spirits from Prohibition to today. Savor tastes from the Inn’s kitchen, sample handmade gins, vodkas, whiskies and more, and learn to make delightful cocktails with them in an evening of Gatsby-esque degustation. Guests will receive one bottle of one of the New York Distilling Company’s gins to take home.
Friday, Feb. 28
Craft Beer: A Love Story
Tom Acitelli, beer historian
Long Island illustrates the real-life unfolding of the craft beer revolution, as described in Tom Acitelli’s new book, “The Audacity of Hops.” Join Mr. Acitelli for a tasting of local brews and learn the distinct styles of craft beers and the passions and palates behind them. A sampling of hearty pub-type fare will round out an evening of gastro-goodness. Guests will receive a signed copy of Tom’s book, “The Audacity of Hops: The History of America’s Craft Beer Revolution.”
All sessions begin at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $95 per person, plus tax and tip.
The speakeasy is located beneath the Jedediah Hawkins at 400 S. Jamesport Ave., Jamesport.
Reservation can be made by calling (631) 722-2900.
