The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit invites cocktail aficionados and novices alike to indulge in the second annual Mexology Fest, celebrating the best of Mexican tradition and mixology innovation from October 31 – November 2. Included in the nightly rate for resort guests, the multi-day event promises engaging workshops, exclusive tastings, and spirited evenings led by internationally acclaimed mixologists from both Mexico and the United States. Themed offerings like an agave sound bath and spirited art workshop complement the resort’s food and beverage offerings and a takeover by one of the top 50 Best Bars in North America. 

Master artisans and global mixologists will lead workshops and tastings, revealing the secrets behind each spirit’s creation. Inspired by Mexican cultural tradition and the Day of the Dead celebration taking place simultaneously, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit will re-interpret Mexican spirits and signature drinks through the lens of the Catrina, the symbolic Dia de los Muertos skull representing the cycle of life and death. Attendees will delve into the lifecycle of spirits, both literally and figuratively, showcasing Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s commitment to providing unique cultural experiences for its guests. International brands including Tequila Tromba, Tequila Tres Mujeres, Aycya Raicilla, Campari, Pachuco, Ritual Zero Proof, Lyre’s, Free Spirits, and True Spirits will collaborate with Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit to curate an exclusive event that honors the artistry and craftsmanship behind Mexico’s iconic spirits.

Mexology Maestros

Michael Capoferri: Hospitality veteran of 23 years, Michael Capoferri founded and operates the Los Angeles neighborhood cocktail bar, Thunderbolt (#8 in North America and Best in the West in 2022, 2023 and 2024 according to World’s 50 Best Bars). After working extensively in Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York City as a mixologist  for world-class cocktail bars, Capoferri entered the world of consulting, where he focused on curating unique bar experiences and bespoke cocktail programs. Spearheaded by Capoferri, Thunderbolt is what happens when a technically-driven cocktail bar is stripped down to its essence and reimagined as a neighborhood gathering spot. Thunderbolt’s cocktail program uses cutting-edge technology to deliver delicious and hassle-free cocktails at an extremely efficient pace, aiming to remove the superfluous from cocktails and add only what creates a more efficient, more sustainable, and, most importantly, more delicious cocktail. – @thunderboltla

Christine Wayne: Founder of On The Mocks™, a growing online community of non-alcoholic beverage enthusiasts + mindful drinkers, Christine Wayne quit alcohol in 2019 feeling lost but hopeful, forging a community based on the commitment to alcohol-free living and an acknowledgment of her social-foodie side. On The Mocks™ is Wayne’s inclusive space that welcomes anyone seeking to learn more about an alcohol-free lifestyle and the world of non-alcoholic beverages. On The Mocks™ has brought together thousands from around the globe who share the philosophy that “the party isn’t over; it’s just different.”  Wayne’s mocktail workshop will showcase the ability to enjoy the ingredients and preparation of a drink even in the absence of alcohol. – @onthemocks

Lucas Assis: Lucas Assis’s love for craft spirits and cocktails is evident through his extensive knowledge and pleasure in exploring and telling the history and stories that go into every sip. Lucas has been a bartender for over 10 years and has garnered a loyal following that supports his passion for traveling, educating, and sharing the wealth of his knowledge. Lucas’s recent “Back to Basics” series highlights his fundamental knowledge of tequila, one of his favorite spirits. Assis’s Soul and Spirits workshop will highlight the differences between Mexican spirits, leading to a blind taste contest to test participants on their new knowledge. – @thelucasassis

Sergio Villareal: Marketing expert and founder of the concept of “Licuraduría”, creating unique elements and tools to structure interactive sensory concepts for private and corporate events, Sergio Villareal specializes in developing drink menus for hospitality venues in Mexico and the U.S. Villareal’s professional training was forged at Tec de Monterrey, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, and at the Holeman & Finch Bar Academy & ABC School of Bartending in Atlanta, Georgia. Villareal’s sensorial tasting experience with Clase Azul will immerse attendees in the multi-faceted world of Mexican spirits. – @elmixologo

Saeed “Hawk” House: Returning for his second year at Mexology Fest, Saeed “Hawk” House’s 11 years of bartending have taken him from San Diego to Los Angeles, with features in numerous publications including Esquire, Forbes, Good Morning America, Huff Post, and LA Weekly.  Hawk’s bartending experience also sparked a love for photography, leading him to launch his Instagram page, Cocktails By Hawk. Hawk was recently listed on Food & Wine’s 2023 list of “20 Black Mixologists You Need On Your Radar.” Hawk also shows off his expertise in cocktail competitions, competing for brands like Bombay Sapphire, Teeling Irish Whiskey, and Copper & Kings American Brandy. – @cocktailsbyhawk

Additionally, Mexology Fest is set to kick off with an exceptional culinary collaboration. On the first day, renowned chef Bruno Oteiza, known for his innovative cuisine at MICHELIN-star awarded Cocina de Autor restaurant located at sister property Grand Velas Riviera Maya, will join forces with Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s executive chef Guillaume Morancé to create a dining experience that marries tradition with creativity. Oteiza, a celebrated chef and disciple of Spain’s renowned chef Juan Mari Arzak from San Sebastián, brings his expertise in blending local flavors with a modern twist.

Mexology Fest is included in the all-inclusive rate for guests staying at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Rates start at $507 per person per night in double occupancy. The public is welcome to attend select events for a fee. The all-inclusive rate at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit also includes a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity, and more.

For more information, please visit https://mexologyfest.velasresorts.com/en/.

About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit:
The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit enjoys a privileged setting with flowering gardens beside a long stretch of walkable beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains in Puerto Vallarta. The resort features 267 suites, many with ocean-views and some with private outdoor jacuzzis. Of the resort’s six restaurants, four, serving French, Italian, Asian and Mexican gourmet cuisine, have received AAA Four Diamond awards for distinguished cuisine and presentation. With treatments inspired by the native traditions of Mexico and a signature Water Ceremony, SE Spa is rated Five Stars by Forbes Travel Guide.

Other features include a three-tiered pool, fitness center, 24/7 in-suite service, water sports, tennis and pickleball courts, Baby Concierge, new expansive Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor areas, toddler pool, and state-of-the-art Teens’ Club. The All-Inclusive resort in the Riviera Nayarit features more than 15,064 square feet of indoor meeting facilities. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela Ruiz, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information please visit vallarta.grandvelas.com.

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