Columbia, SC, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina will host the Great American Whiskey Fair, its 13th anniversary, at the historic 701 Whaley building. Attendees can enjoy over 300 whiskeys from around the world, along with interactive masterclasses, VIP experiences, and local culinary offerings. The fair is an ideal occasion for whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers alike to explore and deepen their appreciation of this cherished spirit.
Columbia’s Great American Whiskey Fair Returns for Its 13th Year Featuring Over 300 Whiskeys
Columbia, South Carolina will host the Great American Whiskey Fair on Friday, October 3, 2025, marking the event’s 13th anniversary. Set in the historic 701 Whaley building, the fair promises over 300 whiskeys from around the world for tasting, catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers in the whiskey world.
The event, founded by Kristian Niemi, the owner of Bourbon at 1214 Main Street, aims to enhance attendees’ tasting experiences, allowing them to sample whiskeys before they purchase them. This year’s fair will also feature interactive masterclasses led by distillers and brand ambassadors, enabling participants to refine their palates and discover new favorites in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
VIP experiences will be available, offering exclusive tastings and early access to special selections. Attendees can look forward to engaging with master distillers, brand managers, and whiskey ambassadors, providing a unique opportunity to deepen their appreciation and understanding of whiskey.
The fair is not just limited to tastings; local culinary delights will also be on offer, with food provided by Bourbon, a whiskey-centric restaurant. Furthermore, cocktails will be crafted from various whiskeys by the US Bartender’s Guild of Columbia, further enriching the experience for guests.
With tickets limited, enthusiasts are encouraged to secure theirs in advance by purchasing at www.greatamericanwhiskeyfair.com. The Great American Whiskey Fair has become one of Columbia’s most anticipated annual events, uniting whiskey lovers in celebration of this cherished spirit.
Event Highlights
- Date: Friday, October 3, 2025
- Location: 701 Whaley building, Columbia, SC
- Total Whiskeys: Over 300 whiskeys
- Founder’s Name: Kristian Niemi
- Opportunities: Tasting, masterclasses, VIP experiences
- Culinary Offering: Local food from Bourbon, cocktails by US Bartender’s Guild
Background on the Great American Whiskey Fair
The Great American Whiskey Fair started as a local initiative to celebrate the growing popularity of whiskey in the United States. Over the years, it has evolved into a significant cultural event in Columbia, attracting whiskey aficionados from various regions. Each year, it offers a platform for distillers and brands to showcase their products while educating guests about the nuances of whiskey tasting.
Kristian Niemi’s dedication to the whiskey community has been instrumental in the fair’s success. By collaborating with industry experts, he aims to create an environment where both novices and seasoned drinkers can learn and appreciate whiskey together. This approach has contributed to a thriving community of whiskey lovers in Columbia and beyond.
FAQ Section
What is the Great American Whiskey Fair?
The Great American Whiskey Fair is an annual event celebrating whiskey, featuring tastings, masterclasses, and opportunities to interact with industry professionals.
When will the fair take place?
The fair is scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025.
Where is the event located?
The fair will be held at the historic 701 Whaley building in Columbia, South Carolina.
How many whiskeys will be available for tasting?
Attendees can expect to taste over 300 whiskeys from various regions.
Are there any special experiences offered at the fair?
Yes, there will be interactive masterclasses, VIP experiences, and exclusive tastings available for purchase.
How can attendees purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased through the official event website, www.greatamericanwhiskeyfair.com.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Location | 701 Whaley building, Columbia, SC |
| Whiskeys Available | Over 300 |
| Masterclasses | Yes, led by distillers and brand ambassadors |
| VIP Experiences | Exclusive tastings and early access |
| Culinary Offering | Food by local restaurant Bourbon, cocktails by US Bartender’s Guild |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia, SC Celebrates Mother’s Day Weekend with Vibrant Events
Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Great American Whiskey Fair
- Google Search: Great American Whiskey Fair
- Time: Why Canadians Are Boycotting American Whiskey
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Whiskey
- Seven Fifty: New Tariffs on American Alcohol
- Google News: Whiskey News
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