What do you do?
I will provide a personalized whiskey tasting for your event, such as a birthday party or other special occasion.
The goal is to enjoy some good whiskey, learn a little, and most of all, have fun!
I work with the host and/or guest of honor to develop a customized list of selections based on the taste, preference, and interests of the guests. Some examples are different styles of Bourbon, the 5 classic Scotch regions, or comparing world whiskies from different countries. Maybe you want to learn more about your favorite, or maybe you are looking to branch out.
On the day of the event, we will go through an organized tasting. As we go, we will learn a little about what the selections have in common, as well as what makes each one unique. Hopefully, at the end of the event, your guests will know a little more about what they like, but also why they like it, and what else they might like in the future.
How are you qualified?
I am currently certified as a (Scotch) Whisky Ambassador and an Executive Bourbon Steward. I am also familiar with the whiskies of the other “Big 5” whiskey producing countries: Ireland, Canada, and Japan.
To date, I have tasted almost 500 different whiskies from 11 countries, so I have a good repertoire to draw on to help you make selections for your personal whiskey flight. Unless your favorite is something relatively obscure, I have probably tried it.
I have been invited to local distilleries for private tastings and assisted with cocktail creation to showcase individual spirits.
What’s the fine print?
Since alcohol is a controlled substance, there are a few guidelines that must be followed. While these vary by state, here is the general idea in plain English.
While I will assist you in choosing the selections, you must purchase them. I cannot provide alcohol for your event. You are hiring me as a “server”.
If the event is at a hired / rented venue, they must allow you to provide your own alcohol and server. They must also allow hard liquor / spirits. Some “BYO” venues are limited to beer and wine.
All legal requirements for gathering must be observed. This includes any restrictions in place for your state due to COVID-19. Believe me, I cannot wait to delete this, but for now, we must gather safely, responsibly, and legally.
As a hired server, I cannot serve alcohol to anyone under the legal age of consumption in your state, regardless of the venue. This includes private property.
As a hired server, I cannot serve anyone who is “visibly intoxicated”. I am TIPS and ServSafe certified in the responsible serving of alcohol, and my tastings are paced to prevent excessive consumption.