Ready for some Windy City whiskey? How would you like the opportunity to taste whiskies from all across the globe right in Chicago? And how’d you like to meet personally with the whiskey distillers, master blenders, and other experts from the companies that make those global whiskies?

Well, you’re in luck. WhiskeyFest is coming to Chicago on May 12, 2023. This is your chance to sample a large selection of whiskies, including single malt and blended Scotch, Irish, bourbon, rye, Tennessee, Japanese, Canadian, and craft-distilled whiskies, all assembled in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

Not only will you enjoy a taste of some of the best and most iconic whiskies in the world, but the evening’s focus is also on education. As you visit the pouring booths, the experts will tell you just how their whisky is made. 

A Large Number of Whiskey to Try

There are numerous whiskey  distillers attending WhiskeyFest. Check out their website often, as they update it regularly. Here is the list. Some of the popular varieties, hailing from all over the world and across various traditions, include the following:

• Barmen 1873 Bourbon
• Benromach
• Blackened Whiskey Remastered
• The Busker
• Dewar’s
• Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
• FUJI Whisky
• Gentleman Jack
• George Dickel
• Gordon & MacPhail
• Jack Daniel’s
• Jefferson’s
• Johnnie Walker
• Michter’s
• Redbreast

Education in the Windy City

WhiskeyFest is an educational as well as a tasting event. You’ll find several master classes available for you. At the writing of this article, they have two listed. They will add more as they get closer to the date, and you can learn about them here. 

Class #1: Holladay Distillery: Reinventing Our Bourbon History 

The first scheduled class is at 7 pm in Grand Hall 1. It’s led by the Master Distiller, Kyle Merklein, from Holladay Distillery. The topic is, “Holladay Distillery: Reinventing Our Bourbon History.” Merklein will talk about how the finest bourbon comes from the ideal combination of climate and geology. He says it’s rare outside of Kentucky. He’ll talk more about how it is found in the rolling hills of Weston, Missouri, where the Holladay Distillery is located. 

In addition to his talk, you can enjoy an exclusive tasting and education of Real Missouri Bourbon. In addition, you can taste three more offerings, including your very own exclusive tasting of a Holladay One Barrel Bourbon called “Shorty.” You won’t find this anymore on the bourbon market today. In addition, Merklein will introduce you to Ben Holladay Bottled in Bond Bourbon and Hollady Soft Red Wheat Rickhouse Proof.

These exclusive tastings are all the more reason to get to this seminar early so you can grab your spot. For a little background: the Holladay Distillery is the oldest distillery in Missouri. Their distilling legacy harkens all the way back to 1865. They age all of their bourbons for at least six years, and they are all distilled, aged, and bottled at their distillery.

You’ll love this seminar because you will also learn the craft of master distilling, from crafting to bottling and on to the tasting. 

Class #2: History of Heaven Hill Distillery

This class, led by Bernie Lubbers, the National Brand Ambassador from Heaven Hill Distillery, begins at 8 pm in the Grand Hall. This seminar is an immersive experience in the history of Heaven Hill Distillery with Lubbers. You’ll taste three bourbons of the same mash bill. They are, however, of different ages, proofs, and attributes. 

Your first taste is of William Heavenhill. This is a limited edition production you can only find in Kentucky. The bourbon’s namesake, Heavenhill, had a limestone spring that inspired the original name of the distillery – Old Heavenhill Springs Distillery. Next, you taste Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond. This bourbon was inspired by the distillery’s 1939 release of Old Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond. Lastly, enjoy Heaven Hills’ newest release from the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection, Heaven Hill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for WhiskeyFest details? Here you go: 

When is WhiskeyFest Chicago?

It is May 12, 2023. It lasts from either 5:30 pm or 6:30 pm (depending on your tickets) to 9:30 pm. 

Where is WhiskeyFest Chicago?

The event takes place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. 

How Much are the Tickets?

General admission tickets are $295 each, and you can enter the event at 6:30 pm. You have access to the grand tasting, seminars (first come, first serve), a commemorative Glencairn crystal nosing glass, a gift bag, a program, and a pen.

VIP tickets are $375 each, and you have admission to the event starting at 5:30 pm. This is one full hour earlier than general admission. You can see the booths first and enjoy a chance to talk to the whiskey experts one on one before anyone else. You also get everything that comes with the general admission tickets.

There are a limited number of tickets, and they always sell out, so get them soon!  

How Do I Reserve a Ticket?

Visit the Whiskey Advocate website to reserve your tickets. Tickets are not sold at the door and must be purchased online.  

What Should I Wear to WhiskeyFest?

Most people wear business casual attire. 

How Do I Get Into a Seminar?

Seating in the educational seminars is first come, first serve. Check your event program for times and locations.

Are People Under 21 Welcome?

No, you must be over 21 to enter WhiskeyFest. They will check IDs. 

Is There Food Available?

Yes! They do provide a hot and cold buffet. You are encouraged to eat throughout the evening. In addition, they offer water, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. 

How Do I Taste a Particular Whiskey?

You will find a whiskey list in your program booklet. One is alphabetical, and the other one tells you which booth is pouring which whiskey. 

Do I Need to Bring My Own Glass?

No, you receive a Glencairn Crystal nosing glass at registration. You may take it home with you. 

Final Thoughts

You are now ready for the Windy City’s best whiskey event of the year! WhiskeyFest is an amazing festival held annually in Chicago, New York, San Franciso, Las Vegas, and Florida. So, if you can’t make the Chicago event, you can check out their other locations!

Get the newest information on WhiskeyFest, be sure and visit their Facebook page, where you can learn about new whiskey vendors and educational talks. 

If you are looking for more whiskey events in the United States, please visit Distillerynearby.com, your ultimate online source for whiskey, bourbon, and other spirits.