COLEMAN BROOK TAVERN IS ONE OF FOUR VERMONT RESTAURANTS TO RECEIVE WINE SPECTATOR BEST OF AWARD OF EXCELLENCE 2011

LUDLOW, Vt. – Coleman Brook Tavern, located in Okemo Mountain Resort’s Jackson Gore Inn, has been honored with the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. Although Coleman Brook Tavern has been recognized by Wine Spectator in the past, this is the first time the restaurant has received this second-tier award. Coleman Brook Tavern is one of only four Vermont restaurants to receive the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, and one of 833 worldwide.

“I am incredibly proud,” said Okemo Mountain Resort Wine Director Marc Miller. “Without the commitment from Resort Operators Tim and Diane Mueller to Coleman Brook Tavern and the wine program, none of this could have happened. It is an honor to work for an organization that encourages excellence. I’m just one piece of a puzzle that accomplishes great things on a daily basis. And I’m proud to be a piece in that puzzle.

Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Awards recognize restaurants whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers. To qualify for an award, the list must present complete, accurate wine information. It must include vintages and appellations for all selections, including wines available by the glass. Complete producer names and correct spellings are mandatory, while the overall presentation and appearance of the list is also considered. The Best of Award of Excellence was created to give special recognition to restaurants that clearly exceed the requirements of the Award of Excellence. These lists typically offer 400 or more selections, along with superior presentation, and display either vintage depth, with several vertical offerings of top wines, or excellent breadth across several wine regions.

Coleman Brook Tavern’s list features 542 fine wines from around the world and concentrates on the best that California, and other American regions, have to offer. The list presents wines in a price range of $19 to $1,300 — certainly something for every taste and budget. There is also a selection of large format bottles for special events. Coleman Brook lists wines that are not available anywhere else in Vermont.

Coleman Brook Tavern at Okemo’s Jackson Gore Inn has redefined comfort for families and couples looking for something special in a dining experience. All ages recognize the elegance of the setting, but are instantly transformed to a familiar comfort level upon arrival The restaurant has become a favorite with children for its specialty dessert, the Tavern S’mores – a build-your-own-treat that includes graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows … and even a tabletop campfire and skewers for achieving toasted-marshmallow perfection.

Executive Chef Brian Flanders recently joined Coleman Brook Tavern and has quickly set a new standard for culinary excellence with his creative menu selections that use the finest and freshest ingredients available.

Coleman Brook Tavern is open to the public and reservations are recommended for dinner. Al fresco dining is offered during the Friday evening Jackson Gore Outdoor Music Series. For more information, or to make a dinner reservation, please call 802-228-1435. To learn more about dining options at Okemo Mountain Resort, please visit www.okemo.com .