Lead Photo Credit: Jeff Holt
*Updated on September 20, 2021
Craft beer is king when it comes to après-ski libations. That is why, in our never-ending quest to bring you the best ski beers, we review so many of them on our craft beer blog.
We are, however, by no means, close minded beer snobs. Those of us here at All About Après are open to drinking any and all spirits that come our way. This is especially true when it comes to the original spirit of après, and another love of mine...wine.
So when I heard about newest wine-centric upgrades that The Little Nell was doing, I knew it would only add to their already excellent reputation as one of the best après-ski in Aspen, Colorado
The Little Nell Elevates Apres Ski in Aspen With Their Wine Bar
Photo Credit: Jamie Jaye Fletcher
The Europeans were drinking mulled wine post pow long before craft beer was even a thing.
With the opening of a new wine bar in the winter of 2019-2020 and the addition of virtual tastings by their widely recognized wine academy, The Little Nell in Aspen is ensuring that you don't forget about the original spirit of après.
The winter of 2019-2020 marked the highly anticipated opening of The Wine Bar at The Little Nell. Formerly known as Chair 9 après-ski bar, this chic space was a hot spot for après ski in Aspen.
Good news, it still is, just in a different way.
Renovated in 2019 by Champalimaud Design of New York and re-branded for that winter season, the former Chair 9 offers a fresh new take on après ski in Aspen. The swanky new lounge now known as The Wine Bar is a wine drinker's dream. While visiting, let Wine Director Chris Dunaway and his team of sommeliers guide you through a wide variety of wines to choose from. Then pair your choice with a delicious cheese board while listening to DJs spin Hotel Costes-type downtempo tracks on the reg.
The Little Nell Wine Academy
Photo Credit Jamie Jaye Fletcher
When it comes to wine education, few places take it to the level of The Little Nell. In fact, The Little Nell Wine Academy has been recognized by many publications including Departures and Robb Report as “the ultimate wine education experience.” Held each year in early to mid-April it is the ultimate setting for spring apres ski in Aspen.
Master Sommeliers Jay Fletcher and Dustin Wilson along with members of The Little Nell, Aspen's esteemed food and beverage staff will guide you through wines specific to the theme of the event.
Classes take place in Vintage Wine Bar with special lunches, dinners and receptions at Element 47, one of the Apen's best après ski bars, Ajax Tavern, Residences at The Little Nell and at the Sundeck’s private dining room and outdoor deck.
A Virtual Taste of Nell Wine Academy
Photo Credit: Shawn Connor Photography, LLC
Looking for a little sneak peak of The Little Nell Wine Academy?
Each winter (usually in early January) The Little Nell offers their virtual tasting to whet your whistle. The one-hour course will be presented live with an opportunity to taste from their incredible wine list.
It's like virtual après ski in Aspen.
Registration is open online for the one-hour course and includes four bottles of wine, a tasting mat and pouring instructions. All you need is glassware and your wine-loving taste buds.
Count me in!
Learn About Après Ski in Aspen and More
Our Craft Beer, Wine and Spirits Blog is sure to help you learn about and experience the greatest drinks out there. I can guarantee that any of the wines you’ll learn about and taste during The Little Nell Wine Academy will more than enhance your experience of après ski in Aspen.
Just be sure to wear something mountain chicron your tasting adventure, like our simple Apres Ski Tee available in Blue Triblend, Red Triblend, or Grey Triblend. Simplistic yet classy (for a ski t-shirt) it's the perfect pairing with a warm flannel and jeans.
