Dos Rios in Des Moines Offers ‘Continuing Education’ on Tequila Tasting, Food, History

PRLog (Press Release) – Jan 24, 2008 – DES MOINES – Did you know that tequila was North America's first native distilled spirit? Should fine tequila be sipped and savored or slammed and gulped? What’s the difference between Oro and Añejo tequilas?

These questions and many more will be discussed by distinguished “professor” Karl Alterman during “Tequila University,” an offbeat course covering all things tequila, which will be held on Thursday, February 7 in the Don Roberto Room at Dos Rios Cantina and Tequila Lounge.

From 7 – 9 p.m., students will be educated with 12 tequila tasters, Guadalajara street-food samples from Executive Chef Scott Stroud and lively discussions about tequila and Jalisco, the Mexican region that inspired Alterman to create Dos Rios.

“When I visited Mexico in 2003 and 2004, it was a cultural awakening,” said Alterman, founder and president of KB Management, LLC, which owns the popular restaurant at 316 Court Avenue. “Creating this restaurant has been a labor of love, and I want to share my passion and understanding of the culture in hopes it will enrich the Dos Rios experience for my pupils.”

Tequila University students will toast their graduation from the two-hour seminar with expertly mixed Margaritas.

“The best part is we promise there will be no pop quizzes or final exams and everybody will get an “A,” Alterman said. “This is a great way for folks to try new tequilas and learn a little bit about how they are made and taste some delicious, authentic food from the region.”

The first “Tequila University,” held in mid-November 2007, was a big success, with more students than available seats. Because he wants to ensure every student gets proper attention, Alterman said seating will again be limited to 30. Tuition will be $60 per student.

He said another class could be added if students demand it.

“Those who miss early registration won’t need to hold demonstrations because they feel left out,” he said, “we will simply add another class in the very near future.”

Those interested in enrolling for the February 7 class can call the Dos Rios Student Services department at 515-282-2995.


About Dos Rios Cantina & Tequila Lounge
Founded by South Florida-based restaurateur Karl Alterman and inspired by his pilgrimage to the mountains of Guadalajara, Mexico, Dos Rios is defined by fresh ingredients, meticulously created dishes, homemade tortillas, tamales, mole and salsas, sublime marinades, fresh guacamole mashed tableside and exquisite flavors. Located at 316 Court Avenue, Dos Rios seats 180 in the main dining room, 60 in an enclosed patio and 100 in the private “Don Roberto Room.” Dos Rios invites patrons (and matrons) to inhale the aromas of the finest Mexican cuisine on the planet, as well as sip from the more than 200 delicious tequilas. Guests can take pleasure sitting back and enjoying the cosmopolitan interior, as well as the buzzing, friendly atmosphere of this new urban fiesta.