By Vanessa Wolf

Makena Beach & Golf Resort’s Food & Wine Education Series exhibits wine expertise of the world’s second youngest Master Sommelier, Patrick Okubo (center) and Makena’s Executive Chef Marc McDowell (right) and Chef Kurt Lesmerises. Photo courtesy Jessica Pearl Photography.

This Thursday, March 20, the Makena Beach & Golf Resort continues their monthly Food and Wine Education Series.

Once again hosted by Hawaii’s youngest Master Sommelier, Patrick Okubo, the March edition will allow you to try his picks representing a “Taste of Bordeaux.”

The event features three wines from France’s Bordeaux region paired with gourmet tasting dishes designed and prepared by Executive Chef Marc McDowell and Chef De Cuisine Kurt Lesmerises.

The menu opens with a properly French Confit de Duck Cassoulet paired with Chateau Malengin, Montagne Saint Emilion 2009.

If you’ve never had the pleasure, expect slow simmered duck confit with Malama Farms braised pork pancetta, pork sausages and Ranch Gordo white beans served with a crisped bread crumb crust.

Next up is a Chateau Larose De Gruaud, Saint Julien 2009 accompanied by Steak a la Bordelaise comprised of Malden sea salt-roasted New York strip loin, Kumu Farms glazed carrots, hand-cut pomme frites, bordelaise sauce and maître d’butter.

For a final treat, enjoy Chateau Gravas, Sauternes 2010 with Creme Brulee topped with fresh berries.

The wine tasting starts at 6:30 p.m. in the resort’s Molokini Bar & Grille. It’s offered at $45 per person – not including tax or gratuity – and reservations are recommended. Call 808-875-5888 to make yours.