Araxi’s Silver Anniversary Brings Out the Big Guns in Whistler during Cornucopia

Whistler, BC. A year of milestones in Whistler this fall spells show-stopping opportunities for residents and visitors to the world-class ski resort this November. As Cornucopia, Whistler’s Celebration of Wine and Food, turns 10 this year, one of Whistler’s top-rated restaurants, Araxi turns a stylish 25 and has never looked better.

Araxi Restaurant has long established itself as the pinnacle of Whistler fine dining since its modest beginnings in 1981. Araxi is now known around the world for excellence in food and wine, attentive and knowledgeable service and ongoing innovation and creativity, and is in the mood to celebrate.

“Ongoing excellence, constant improvement and always raising the bar,” that’s the philosophy that’s led proprietor, Jack Evrensel to success and longevity in his restaurant career. “Every day we strive to exceed guests’ expectations and provide and an unforgettable experience. For Araxi’s 25th Anniversary, we’ll be raising that bar again.”

This year, the restaurant has secured an eclectic and distinctive progression of exceptional wines. Moving through several decades, the line up of new, cult, legendary and nearly impossible to source wines pay homage to Araxi’s history, vibrancy and longevity. The monumental dinner on Friday, November 10th, affectionately titled, ‘The Big Guns – 25th Anniversary Edition’ will delight oenephiles of all types. Highlights include a 1981 Chateau Beaucastle Chateauneuf du Pape, which shares both Araxi’s anniversary and the characteristic of improving with age. Cult wine fans will enjoy the 2003 Lokoya Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, considered a ‘tour de force’and a duo of early 90’s limited release Beringers known for their rich colours and intense flavours (see below for full list and vintages).
Kick the evening off with a Champagne reception featuring Nicolas Feuillatte “Cramant” Grand Cru 96 and prepare for an evening of expertly paired regionally inspired dishes created by celebrated Executive Chef James Walt. Having recently returned from a year spent in Rome as Executive Chef at The Canadian Embassy, Walt brings new enthusiasm, creativity and a resolute commitment to cooking locally, seasonally from only the very best ingredients.

Wines:

Nicolas Feuillatte “Cramant” Grand Cru 1996, Champagne; Livon “BraideAlte” 00, (Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc, Picolit, Moscato) Colio; Anderson’s Conn Fournier Valley 2004 Chardonnay Napa Valley; Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru “Clos Saint Jacques” 1999, Cote du Nuits, France; Chateau Beaucastel Chateau Neuf Du Pape 1981; Beringer, Bancroft Ranch, Howell Mountain Merlot, 1991, Bancroft Ranch Vineyard; Beringer, Chabot Vineyard. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 1990,Chabot Vineyard; Northstar 2003 Merlot Walla Walla Valley; Lokoya Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Napa Valley; Chateau des Charmes “Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard” Riesling Ice Wine 2002

The Big Guns – 25th Anniversary Edition – Friday, November 10th at 7pm $350pp Space is limited, for reservations visit www.whistlercornucopia.com Individual ticket sale on sale now. Menus and wines coming soon to www.araxi.com

Bubbles, Jazz & The Sea – 25th Anniversary Edition Party after Crush! Walk across the square to a sparkling night in the heart of Whistler Village. On Saturday, November 11th join ‘Bubbles, Jazz & The Sea – 25th Anniversary Edition’ at Araxi. The milestone anniversary is cause for celebration and guests will be indulged in over a dozen types of chilled champagnes and sparkling wines such as Chateau des Charmes Bubbles, Laurent Perrier Rose Champagne, Stellars Jay Bubbles, Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne Rose and Veuve Clicquot – just to name a handful.

Also on the menu are memorable martinis, killer cocktails, hot jazz and sublime seafood stations, plus a surprise to help celebrate their big year. Revered chef James Walt will create an array of exceptional dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients including fresh shucked oysters, lobster and succulent Dungeness crab. The stylish and contemporary setting of this internationally acclaimed restaurant and bar will undoubtedly deliver another stand-out event of the festival.

Bubbles, Jazz & The Sea – 25th Anniversary Edition – Saturday, November 11th, 10:30pm – 2am. $150pp Space is limited, for reservations visit www.whistlercornucopia.com Individual ticket sale on sale now. Menus and wines coming soon to www.araxi.com
Named ‘Whistler’s Best Restaurant’ for the past seven years by critics at Vancouver magazine, Araxi Restaurant & Bar is located at 4222 Village Square, offering regional fine dining in the heart of Whistler since 1981. For reservations and inquiries, telephone 604.932.4540 or visit www.araxi.com