What Does a Bourbon Tasting Event Look Like?
At the heart of it, most bourbon tasting events are social events – and we could all use more of those lately. It’s about participants sharing an experience together, whether they are in the same room or connecting virtually. (In fact, virtual bourbon tasting is a powerful way to connect people over distances.)
Crook & Marker Bourbon Tasting, 2022
“Absolutely fantastic event and location. Just itching for the next one!”
Here is what a typical in-person bourbon tasting event looks like. This one was hosted by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet of Lawrenceville at the “House of Crook” in Hamilton, New Jersey in 2022. The House of Crook is the headquarters for Crook & Marker, which distills its own Organic Supergrain Alcohol. Michael worked closely with Toni Carver, store manager for Joe Canal’s, and with representatives from Crook & Marker to develop the kind of event they envisioned and create the perfect experience for their guests.
The evening started with a tour of the House of Crook before meeting in the lounge for some casual chatting. Then, the main event. Michael Kutner entertained and educated the group, regaling them with a fascinating peek into bourbon’s long and controversial history. This background provided the group with some context about the whiskies they were going to try.
This particular tasting featured four unique styles of American whiskey: Old Forester 1910 (bourbon), Elk Wheated Bourbon (wheated), Kentucky Owl Rye 10 Years (rye), and Barrell Bourbon Armida (a sweeter option). Each whiskey has a style and taste of its own. Michael chose these particular brands because they represent their categories well. They also aren’t very common, so it gives everyone an opportunity to taste a whiskey they may not have encountered before.
(Of course, these whiskies are not set in stone. You can choose different whiskies if you have some in mind or ask Michael for his recommendations on which whiskies would best match the kind of event and experience you want to create for your guests.)
Participants learned the proper tasting methods and what to look for in a whiskey. This knowledge helps them on their own whiskey journeys – and most bourbon drinkers eventually find their favorite. Distilled Leadership’s whiskey tasting adventures gets participants on the path to finding theirs.
Michael provided resealable containers so that participants didn’t feel the need to finish all the samples in one sitting – they could take some home afterwards, if they preferred. An alcohol-free option was also available for those who wanted to participate but not drink, including designated drivers.
In the end, all participants learned a lot about whiskey and bourbon, and had a lot of fun. A memorable night that was distinctly different!
Customize the Bourbon Tasting Event to Your Tastes and Needs
This particular event was a cross-promotion that worked extremely well for Joe Canal’s, Crook & Maker, and the participants. The hosts also brought in a caterer to serve appetizers for their guests, included with the price of the ticket. But you can create any type of event you’d like:
Team sessions for fun and/or to reconnect
Customer or client appreciation nights – entertain them AND provide information about what’s new with your company or organization
Getting friends and family together
Launching a new product or service
Meet and greet for club members, new employees, or business networking
Fun reward and a night out
As part of a larger event including trade shows, conferences, and more
Host as a paid event, partially paid event, or take care of the whole bill yourself
Connect with Michael Kutner at Distilled Leadership or call directly at (267) 230-4115 to book a date or for more information. Fnd out how Michael can customize a bourbon tasting event for you like no other.
“10/10 Event. Loved all aspects. Venue, Michael, Food, Spirits.”