Nine Sips to Understanding American Whiskey

Learn about the history and styles of American whiskey in this tasting experience in San Francisco!


Elixir To Go
Elixir To Go
5.0 (22)
Instagram followers 6k followers

2 hours Location SoMa Experience size 1 to 30 guests   $88

Ready to dive into the world of American whiskey? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned whiskey connoisseur, this tasting class in San Francisco has something for everyone! Join us for a guided experience led by industry experts at ELIXIR, one of the “Top Whisky Bars in America” (Whisky Advocate) and a “99 Best Bourbon Bar in America” (The Bourbon Review).
In this class, you’ll learn everything from the basics to the finer details, including the difference between Bourbon, Rye, Single Malt, and Blended whiskies. What exactly is “American whiskey, ” and how does it differ from whiskies produced elsewhere? We’ll also clear up the mystery between “whiskey” and “whisky”—all in an interactive and engaging format.
Led by knowledgeable experts, you’ll gain insights into the history, production, and flavors of American whiskey, from its distinct categories to the distillation process and the impact of mashes and aging. With the American whiskey renaissance in full swing, this is your chance to understand the nuances that make these spirits so beloved worldwide.
We’ll take you through the process step-by-step, covering topics such as:
  • Definitions and laws surrounding whiskey categories
  • The differences between Tennessee vs. Kentucky, Rye vs. Bourbon, and more
  • The distillation process, including the “Sour Mash”
  • How ingredients, yeast strains, and maturation impact the final product
  • A look into the history and debunking common myths
Along the way, you’ll taste NINE different whiskies, each chosen to showcase the unique characteristics of American whiskey:
  • Tennessee) - Jack Daniels
  • American Blended - Tin Cup
  • Corn - Mellow Corn
  • Bourbon 1: Bottled in Bond - Evan Williams (traditional mash bill - 78/10/12)
  • Bourbon 2: Small Batch - Four Roses (high rye - blend of four high rye whiskeys)
  • Bourbon 3: Wheated - Maker’s Mark
  • Rye 1: Bulleit Rye (high rye, plus we'll discuss low rye and "traditional")
  • Rye 2: Woodinville Rye (100% Rye)
  • American Single Malt - Westward
Perfect for a fun outing with friends in SF, a unique Father’s Day gift, or just a great way to explore and appreciate the world of American whiskey, this class is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Please Note
  • These classes are available for private bookings at any venue.
  • If fewer than four people sign up, the class will be rescheduled to the next available date—so tell your friends and join together!
What you'll get
Samples of Nine Different American Whiskies:
  • Tennessee) - Jack Daniels
  • American Blended - Tin Cup
  • Corn - Mellow Corn
  • Bourbon 1: Bottled in Bond - Evan Williams (traditional mash bill - 78/10/12)
  • Bourbon 2: Small Batch - Four Roses (high rye - blend of four high rye whiskeys)
  • Bourbon 3: Wheated - Maker’s Mark
  • Rye 1: Bulleit Rye (high rye, plus we'll discuss low rye and "traditional")
  • Rye 2: Woodinville Rye (100% Rye)
  • American Single Malt - Westward
Knowledge required
Beginner friendly!
What to bring
A full stomach (if you're consuming). No food is provided, and you'll be sampling full-proof, straight whiskey.
Add-on available for this class
  • ELIXIR Branded Glencairn Whiskey Tasting Glass ($15)
You can add this when you book (optional).
Location

3200 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Nine Sips to Understanding American Whiskey location
Verified reviews


This experience doesn't have reviews yet, but here's what guests say about this host's other experiences:

ClassBento loader icon
Your host

Elixir To Go
Elixir To Go

5.0 (22)
Instagram followers 6k followers

The Evolution of a Cocktail Legacy
The modern “Cocktail Renaissance” began over 20 years ago, when a few pioneers across the country re-ignited the bar scene by introducing drink programs that focus on quality, creativity, history, and the return of hospitality—our founder, H. Joseph Ehrmann, is one of those pioneers. Over the past 22+ years, he and the Elixir team have built Elixir into a bar that many publications have called one of the “Best in America”.
We look forward to showing you why!

Gift this experience

With our gift card, they can book this experience at a time that suits them.

They can also choose from our 9,000+ other experiences.

redeem Gifting options

Book on ClassBento and enjoy exclusive perks:


  • Earn loyalty points
  • Money-back guarantee* for peace of mind
  • Local support from our US-based team, rated 5 stars by customers
  • ClassBento donates $1 to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) with every paid booking
2026-11-20 15:00:00
class 0 4FHB8OR140 b96a490f1dd90bcefdba5812d2d1076a 1 production san-francisco San Francisco CA US san-francisco