Telluride Ski Resort: Record Numbers, Fine Wine

12 Dec Telluride Ski Resort: Record Numbers, Fine Wine

Locals and visitors from the region turned out in record numbers for Telluride Ski Resort’s Donation Day. This year the ski resort hosted 1,035 skiers on Wednesday, November 27, the day before the resort’s official Opening Day. Each skier, pass holder or employee, paid $25 to get on the mountain, raising a total of $25,875 for the Telluride Ski and Snowboard Club (TSSC).

“Donation Day is a great fundraiser for Telluride Ski and Snowboard Club.  We are proud to help support our local skiers and riders and are thankful for the community’s turnout.” says Tom Watkinson PR and Communications Manager, “We plan to continue hosting Donation Day and hope to see it grow even more in the future.”

Proceeds raised on Donation Day go directly to the financial assistance fund for the TSSC. That program has grown significantly year over year, and this year TSSC has the largest enrollment ever. Last year, Telluride had half the turnout with only 413 skiers and raised $10,325. Great early season conditions coupled with skiing for a good cause contributed to this year’s high numbers on the slopes.

AND…

Telluride Ski Resort has become a destination for foodies. Ten different restaurants, both on and near the mountain, offer food appealing to everyone’s tastes. Telluride sets itself apart from other resorts because of our  fierce commitment to culinary opportunities. Incredible food complimented by impressive wine lists are a staple of the area, and alpine eateries like Alpino Vino and Bon Vivant create dining experiences found nowhere else in ski country. This season, Telluride Ski Resort is continuing its commitment to superior culinary services with the appointment of wine director, Andrew Shaffner.

Shaffner spent the last five years as the General Manager of Alpino Vino throughout the winters and as a sommelier at Allred’s Restaurant during the summer, curating a spectacular bottle selection at both venues. His love of wine started in college and blossomed during his time at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas, where he acted as the Rio’s Assistant Wine Director. While in Las Vegas, Shaffner joined the Court of Master Sommeliers and earned a title of Certified Sommelier by the organization. Shaffner is one of four Certified Sommeliers in the Town of Telluride.

“Having Andrew head up the resort’s wine selection takes dining at Telluride Ski Resort establishments to the next level,” said Stephen Roth, Executive Director of Culinary Services for Telluride Ski Resort. “Having a Wine Director like Andrew is something few ski resorts in North America enjoy.” 

Shaffner will be managing Telluride Ski Resort’s wine list across its 10 restaurants, selecting, buying and pricing each bottle. He will also be in charge of the training and education of restaurant employees about wine, creating a more knowledgeable staff capable in assisting guests’ selection. Additionally, he is tasked with understanding the trends of the international wine market and blending them with the tastes of the resort’s clientele.

 “I’m honored to have been given this opportunity,” stated Shaffner. “The wine experiences of Bon Vivant, Alpino Vino, Siam Talay and others are stellar. And, I’m proud of the 1000 bottle wine list at Allred’s. It is truly one of the great wine lists in Colorado.”

About the Telluride Ski Resort:

Stashed among the highest concentration of 13,000 & 14,000 foot peaks in North America, Telluride offers some of the most spectacular skiing and riding on the planet. Unique culinary experiences on the mountain blend with the world-class restaurants, sophisticated shops, luxury hotels, and exquisite spas Telluride offers. Plus, getting here is easier than ever with non-stop flights from 8 major hubs, and getting around is a breeze with the free gondola transportation system. Discover why Telluride is “The Most Beautiful Place You’ll Ever Ski.”