Seeing Red Recap

The weekend included a battle between two prestigious sommeliers  

By Margaret Abrams

Seeing Red returned to Seaside this fall with an exciting new twist – a partnership with Ithaka Hospitality Partners, a hospitality group famous for creating unforgettable dining experiences. 

After the town founder, Robert Davis, his son, Micah Davis, who’s now president, Vice President Erica Pierce, and Senior Director of Brand Development Kendall Andrews, visited the ultra-luxurious Laurel Hotel & Spa, operated by Ithaka Hospitality Partners at Auburn University, they were inspired to join forces. 

The group was particularly inspired after dining at 1856 – Culinary Residence and experiencing the outstanding service and the elevated cuisine in an intimate setting. They started with the Battle of the Somms at Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant, which was a showdown between two of the country’s most prestigious Master Sommeliers, Thomas Price and Larry O’Brien. 

Price is a wine expert and corporate education director who received his Master Sommelier title in 2012. O’Brien became one of approximately 190 Master Sommeliers in the world in 2001 and the first Master Sommelier in Florida.

Guests were treated to a special three-course brunch designed by Chef Leo Maurelli and Chef Nikhil Abuvala. The wines were hand-selected by the famed sommeliers themselves. After the dining experience, everyone voted on their favorite pairing. 

Festival-goers also enjoyed grand and reserve tastings, live music, the vintners dinner and more exclusive experiences the wine festival has become famous for. 

The collaboration kicked off at this year’s festival, giving visitors a look at what’s to come.