Sarasota Whiskey Obsession Festival

Whiskey Obsession is one of the largest whisk(e)y shows in Florida, celebrating fine single malt, blended Scotch and American whiskies, Bourbon and rye, as well as whiskies from Ireland, Australia, France, England, and around the world. This elegant tasting event allows guests to sample 200 premium spirits and interact with distillers, international brand ambassadors, importers, and industry professionals. Gourmet appetizers and a lavish buffet complement the selections.

Whiskey Obsession will be held on Friday, March 28, 2013 in the ballroom at Michael’s on East. VIP admission begins at 6:30 pm with general admission at 7:30 pm. The last pour is at 10:30 pm. VIP hour includes ultra-premium pours of fine, expensive, and rare spirits and provides more opportunities to interact with the industry professionals.

Package sales will be allowed on site, a unique aspect of this event compared to many other major whiskey festivals, allowing guests to purchase and take home their favorite selections. Have your bottle signed by the distiller or ambassador!

Five small group educational seminars will occur during the event, providing guests with an opportunity to learn more about these premium spirits with the distillers and brand ambassadors who know them best. There is no additional cost for the small group seminars, but advance reservations are suggested. Visit http://whiskeyobsessionfestival.com/classes/. Complete details on seminar classes will be posted when available.

Attendance is limited and Whiskey Obsession is expected to reach capacity; limited tickets may be available at the door on a cash basis. All ticket sales are final.

VIP admission $195 (includes 7% tax, plus service charge). VIP admission is limited to 150 guests and includes one branded Glencairn glass; one hour early entrance at 6:30 pm; VIP hour pours of ultra-premium, fine, expensive, and rare spirits (details will be available on the event website) plus greater opportunity to interact with distillery ambassadors and industry professionals; unlimited tasting of over 200 spirits; priority seating at small group seminar classes (first come first served); wine, soft drinks, buffet and hors d’ oeuvres; and one $50 retail voucher for purchases and special orders placed on Friday, March 28, 2014 during the Whiskey Obsession Festival grand tasting.

General admission $95 (includes 7% tax, plus service charge). General admission is limited to 500 guests and includes one branded Glencairn glass; entrance at 7:30 pm; unlimited tasting of over 200 spirits; seating as available at small group seminar classes (first come first served); wine, soft drinks, buffet and hors d’ oeuvres.

Companion $45 (includes 7% tax, plus service charge). Companion admission is limited to 75 guests and includes entrance with VIP or General admission ticket holders; wine, soft drinks, buffet and hors d’ oeuvres.

Each guest with a VIP or General Admission ticket will receive a commemorative Glencairn glass upon entrance for sampling these fine spirits. The Glencairn glass is considered the official whisky glass and the was winner of the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2006.

VIP and standard event tickets include unlimited tastings and guests are reminded that this event is for appreciation, not intoxication. Obviously impaired guests will not be allowed to remain at the event. All guests who consume alcohol are encouraged to have a designated driver; Whiskey Obsession does not tolerate drinking and driving. Take your friends and take a cab