Here’s to Croutons
First, why do we call it toasting? Turns out, it was commonplace in the late 17th century to add a stale crouton or small piece of scorched toast to your wine. Not only was it known to improve the quality of poor wine, it could also improve the quality of bad bread. It became a kind of party snack and popular practice at celebrations. While the toast in the drink went away over the years, the spirit that went along with it lived on.
Here’s to Ancient Greece
We don’t know exactly when the first toast was actually made. But we do know that it’s a tradition that dates back to the Ancient Greeks of 6th Century BC. The practice began as a praise to their gods in hopes for long health. It was a simple, creative ritual involving good drinks and familiar company — and the earliest example of toasts as we know them today.
Here’s to Souvenirs
Today, toasts remain a mainstay in the culture of celebration, spanning across different countries, cultures and cocktails. More importantly, the toast has evolved over time into something of a verbal souvenir. It’s a sentiment that you can take with you when the drink in your glass is long gone.
Regardless of where the tradition of toasts began or how they’ve changed throughout the years, one thing is certain: they’re not going anywhere any time soon. And we’ll drink to that.
Events
The Weller Classroom Experience
Step into the story of one of bourbon’s most enduring families and discover how William Larue Weller helped pioneer the wheated style that would later inspire the Van Winkle legacy. This guided tasting explores four expressions—Special Reserve, CYPB, Full Proof Single Barrel, and 12 Year—tracing Weller’s journey from the days of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery through the industry’s quiet decades of the 1970s and 1980s to its modern revival under Buffalo Trace. Guests will nose, taste, and compare each whiskey in an elegant classroom setting, uncovering how proof, age, and history intertwine to shape the signature richness of Weller and the heritage of American bourbon.
The Art of Proof: Sazerac Rye Edition
Explore the depth and character of Sazerac Rye in this guided whiskey class designed for both enthusiasts and newcomers. Led by a knowledgeable expert, guests will learn about the history, production, and flavor profile that define this iconic rye. The experience includes a comparative tasting of each expression—90 proof, 100 proof, and Sazerac Rye Full Proof—allowing guests to discover how proof influences aroma, body, and finish. This side-by-side journey highlights the versatility and craftsmanship behind one of the most recognized names in American rye whiskey.
Here’s to tales of yesterday and cocktails today.
