Whiskey Tasting To Serve As Fundraiser For Batavia United Way

BATAVIA, IL — A whiskey tasting with storytelling elements? That's what Batavia United Way's upcoming fundraiser will entail.

The nonprofit organization is hosting The Art of Whiskey Fundraiser Feb. 2 at the Water Streets Studio building. The evening's special guest will be Nick Nagele, the co-founder of DeKalb-based Whiskey Acres Distilling Company.

From 7-9:30 p.m., guests will be able to enjoy a welcome cocktail before sampling three artisan blends of whiskey, all while Nagele explains the whiskey-making process: a story of turning a kernel into a bottle. To end the evening, participants can browse art galleries and visit the cash bar.

Nagele is bringing three bottles from his "personal stash" to the tasting:

• Blue Popcorn Bourbon, a cask strength distiller's reserve single barrel bourbon selection
• Bottled in Bond Bourbon, a Double Gold winner at the San Francisco Spirits Competition
• Bottled in Bond Rye, a Double Gold winner at the San Francisco Spirits Competition

"This will be an interactive evening with Nick leading you through the tastings and encouraging any questions," organizers said of the event. "A night not to be missed for both whiskey lovers and whiskey novices alike!"

Admission to the event is $70, which covers the cost of the drinks as well as light snacks and a keepsake tasting glass. All proceeds will benefit Batavia United Way.