Sips, Scenes, and Strategy: IMI Events at Aspen Food & Wine 2025
Content Provided by IMI Events | July 17, 2025
Big brands, bold ideas, and high-altitude hospitality. IMI Events brought the energy to Aspen Food & Wine 2025
Can you believe it’s already July 2025? We’ve officially hit the halfway point in yet another wild ride through the ever-entertaining world of U.S. national accounts. Between economic curveballs and a colorful cast of industry characters, it’s been anything but boring. Yet, despite the challenges, there’s real excitement in the air—innovation is making a comeback, and we’re all figuring out fresh ways to bring it to life in our unique corner of the on-premise universe.
Enter Aspen Food & Wine 2025—and the magical world of the IMI Events team.
Pulling off multiple activations and events surrounding the activities of the Aspen F&W Classic is no small feat. It requires year-round preparation, precise planning, and perfectly timed execution. From crafting curated experiences that spotlight beloved classics to weaving in just the right touch of innovation, every detail is designed to make an impact on the menu and in the moment.
All of it builds toward that magical weekend in a mountain paradise, where wildflowers bloom, adventure beckons, and the energy of Aspen comes alive. It’s a dynamic, demanding journey, but one that makes every step worth it.
Come along for the ride as IMI Events Team relives Aspen F&W—sunny days, starry skies, and all the high-altitude magic in between.
Day 1:
IMI Aspen F&W Events Team descends onto Aspen, Colorado!
- Check on golf cart delivery – priorities first!
- Room assignments, lodging confirmations, eblast comms, delivery checks and gift bag stuffing.
We capped off the day with our annual IMI Agency x Duckhorn / The Wine Group dinner at the fabulous Casa Tua—the perfect kickoff to a weekend of world-class connections.
Day 2:
Amid nonstop pickups, deliveries, and a packed logistics schedule, our team kept the energy high in the hospitality suite—welcoming clients, suppliers, and plenty of good vibes. It was equal parts hustle and hospitality, proving that at Aspen F&W, the magic happens both behind the scenes and center stage.
Day 3:
Friday mornings at Aspen F&W traditionally kick off with the spirited CORE event at Kemo Sabe—an industry gathering with purpose. It’s a heartfelt moment where the culinary community comes together to support the CORE: Community of Restaurant Employees foundation, raising funds for families in need and honoring the strength of our shared hospitality family.
ELEVATED ESCAPE
IMI Events in partnership with Avaline, Nespresso and Nestle Premium Waters
The IMI Events Teams’ first supplier-led experience of the weekend began with a serene and rejuvenating morning at the St. Regis Spa, where guests were welcomed by our incredible brand partners while awaiting their spa appointments. It was the perfect opportunity to ease into the day with light networking in a relaxed setting—an ideal start before diving into the buzz of Aspen’s weekend festivities.
EDRINGTON EXPERIENCE
IMI Events in partnership with Edrington
Another standout moment of the weekend was hosted by the Edrington team at The Mollie in downtown Aspen. Lucky guests were treated to an exclusive tasting of the coveted Macallan 25 Year, alongside other remarkable expressions like the Macallan 12 Year Double Cask and the innovative Macallan Harmony Collection.
The intimate rooftop tasting experience offered a refined yet approachable atmosphere, leaving clients thoroughly impressed by the thoughtful, interactive presentation and the stunning lineup of whiskies.
Day 4:
The Final Day: A Showcase of Signature Moments Curated by the IMI Events Team
RESTORE B4
Building Better Beverage Business with IMI Events in partnership with American Beverage Marketers, Anheuser Busch, Fever-Tree, J. Lohr, Nestle US, Pernod-Ricard, Terlato, Tito’s Handmade & The Wine Group
What better way to bookend most attendees’ final day at Aspen than with the IMI Events Team’s signature Saturday experiences. Owning the coveted 9–12 AM and PM slots has become a hallmark of our presence at Aspen F&W—where creativity flows, both in concept and in glass.
At the morning Restore B4 event set in our lavish but historical rental home, guests enjoyed a dynamic blend of fresh and familiar beverage innovations, elevated culinary moments (including made-to-order omelets from a former French chef), and the indulgent amenities that keep our clients coming back year after year: IV hydration stations, chair massages, and on-site hair stylists and groomers—courtesy of our generous sponsors. We’re already looking forward to bringing this unforgettable experience back next year!
LATE NIGHT IN THE RED ROOM
Building Better Beverage Business (and dancing our a**es off) with IMI Events in partnership with American Beverage Marketers, Anheuser Busch, Avaline, Brown Forman, Fever-Tree, JUSTIN, Mark Anthony Brands, Nestle US, Pernod-Ricard, RNDC, Freixenet, and Trinchero.
The most anticipated event of the weekend—Late Night in the Red Room at CATCH did not disappoint. Guests slipped into red robes, cozy slippers, and playful pajamas as the party transformed into an unforgettable, high-energy dance haven fueled by flowing cocktails and endless slices of pizza. This signature celebration is where beats meet bites, and the dance floor becomes a joyful, all-in family affair.
As tradition has it, the night closed with “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”—a cue to grab one last slice and drift off with a smile. Without a doubt, it remains one of the most legendary parties in the business.
