Whiskey is the new black. Everyone loves it, it looks good on everyone, and there are so many variations, it's easy to try a new one every day of the year. (That's like the color black, right?)
To help celebrate our ubiquitous love for whiskey, a special event is returning to the Royal Oak Farmers Market this Friday. Whiskey Business is a sampling event where guests will have the chance to try more than 100 different whiskeys. On hand for the Metro Times-sponsored event will be everything from Red Stag and Devil's Cut to Elijah Craig, Laphroaig, Angel's Envy, Ole Smoky, Buffalo Trace, and more.
Whiskey Business allows both novices and connoisseurs to sample their way across continents and get acquainted with the world's best scotches, bourbons, and whiskeys. There will be Michigan-made whiskeys and whiskeys from down South and whiskeys from across the pond. Major labels will be situated next to small-batch bourbons made with locally procured ingredients. There will be classics and newcomers, all for the enjoyment of those who love whiskey.
For those who love to know more about the whiskey than what it tastes like, there will also be opportunities for attendees to meet brand ambassadors. These whiskey experts will be able to offer insight on the brand's uniqueness and its many different products. Local restaurants will also be on hand serving various whiskey-inspired appetizers to ensure the belly is aptly lined.
While doors open at 8 p.m. for this event, there is a chance for you to enjoy the festivities a little early. VIP hour runs from 7-8 p.m. and is for the experienced whiskey drinker who wants a more intimate experience and the chance to sample some rare brands.
Of course, there's no shame in just wanting to get to know this liquor a little better. General-admission tickets are great for those looking to learn a little about the world's best whiskeys.
Sure, you can buy some of these bottles in stores, but the appeal of this event is that there are some pretty expensive whiskeys available for purchase. For example, a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle's can cost over $80.
And what goes better with whiskey than a good cigar? With the help of Unbolted Entertainment, there will be a mobile cigar lounge just outside the Royal Oak Farmers Market in the form of an Airstream Land Yacht RV. Inside, cigar and whiskey lovers can enjoy their whiskey samples, along with a premium stogie. Birmingham-based Churchill's will be in-house selling some of their best wares to complement the evening's potent potables.
Games, music, and even some beer round out Whiskey Business's attractions, making it a sophisticated event where anyone can enjoy the best of the world's whiskey.
Whiskey Business takes place at the Royal Oak Farmers Market on Friday, Nov. 7, from 8-11:30 p.m. VIP is from 7 to 8 p.m.; 316 W. 11 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; whiskeybusinessmi.com; 248-202-4662; tickets are $50 for general admission and $70 for VIP.