Question 1

Who is pouring at this event?

Accepted Answer

Our whiskey festival is meant to celebrate the Connecticut whiskey scene, so all our retailers, distributors, and distilleries come from the greater Connecticut region. Retailers will pour their own picks and distributors will pour their brands.

Question 2

Do you have designated driver (DD) tickets available?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Safety is our top priority; we offer designated driver tickets. All DDs get a wristband that lets festival volunteers know that those people are not drinking alcohol (but are welcome to the buffet and water). If you cannot do a DD, we highly recommend you take an Uber or Lyft. Be safe!

Question 3

Where should I park?

Accepted Answer

If you are driving, you can park at the Knights of Columbus lodge, where our event is held. However, parking can get a little tight, so we recommend arriving on time, or, better yet, carpooling with a designated driver, so that everyone can get home safe!

Question 4

How does the whiskey tasting work?

Accepted Answer

Vendors line the room so that attendees can walk around and sample at their leisure. Basically this is a beer fest but with whiskey instead of beer. Please pace yourself accordingly!

Question 5

What is on the buffet dinner menu?

Accepted Answer

Our all-you-can-eat buffet typically includes stuffed breads, pulled pork sandwiches, meatballs, pasta, shrimp cocktail, coleslaw, and other similarly hearty food. We do not normally serve gluten-free or vegetarian options; if you would like a meal of that sort, please email us ahead of time.

Question 6

Will glassware be provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All attendees receive their own festival-branded glass when they enter the fest. These glasses are for you to keep!

Question 7

Will water be provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Again, safety is paramount to us, so we provide free water throughout the fest. Every attendee who enters will be handed a bottle of water along with their whiskey glass. Additional bottles of water are available (and encouraged) throughout the festival

Question 8

Can you buy bottles at the event?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, Connecticut law does not allow us to let the retailers, distillers, or distributors to sell unopened bottles during this event. But if you drink something that you like, we highly recommend that you visit that business later on and buy that bottle!

Question 9

Can I bring my own bottles to share?

Accepted Answer

This is not a whiskey swap. This is a state-licensed whiskey festival fundraiser.

The 3rd Annual Connecticut Bourbon and Whiskey Festival