While the fall harvest season in the Napa Valley has already begun for early-ripening fruit, the late summer sun continues to linger into the evenings here in the Roaring Fork Valley. And that sun sets the stage for one of The Little Nell hotel’s great, late summer traditions: The Ride + Dine Series.

Over the last few years, the Nell’s culinary and wine teams have brought cyclists and diners together for al fresco dinners following two-wheeled summer rides down the trails of the valley. This year, the Nell invites folks who want an “only in Aspen experience” to join them on a bicycle ride from the hotel, along the Roaring Fork River to the Rock Bottom Ranch — one of the most unique destinations in the entire valley. Once at the ranch, riders will feast upon a menu curated by the Nell’s culinary team accompanied by outstanding wines from featured producers. Oh, and if you just want to sample the wines and dine, you can do that, too, by driving instead of riding.

“For me, Ride & Dine is one of those pinch-me moments where I say to myself, ‘Is this really my job?’ Such an incredible experience getting a chance to view our beautiful valley through the lens of the ride down Rio Grande and having the chance to be received and enjoy the natural beauty of Rock Bottom at the end of the ride is truly special,” said Chris Dunaway, wine director at The Little Nell.

There are two events left in this summer’s Ride + Dine Series, and they are coming up fast.

On Tuesday, Aug. 27, the series will welcome acclaimed Napa producer, The Mascot, for an epic opportunity to taste newly-released Cabernet Sauvignon wines from this classic Napa Valley estate. The Mascot began life as the wine that the Harlan family (producers of Harlan Estate, BOND and Promontory) made for themselves in small quantities. Originally a blend made from younger vines grown on the family’s three estates, friends and family so enjoyed the wines that the Harlans decided to produce and release it as a less expensive adjunct to their portfolio with the 2008 vintage. While still expensive, The Mascot sells for beyond $180 a bottle, allowing Cabernet lovers a chance to experience the essence of some of the great vineyards of Napa. Wine Director Mollie Maisch will be attending the event on the 16^th at the ranch.