Join us for an exclusive whiskey tasting with Leiper's Fork Distillery, an acclaimed Tennessee craft distillery owned by Auburn University alumni Lee Locke Kennedy ’00 and Lynlee Kennedy ’02. Guided by renowned whiskey expert and author Sir Paul Bissett, guests will sample bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, rye, and the special-release Cigar Night Whiskey while exploring the craftsmanship, history, and stories behind each pour. Enjoy light snacks and an evening that celebrates exceptional whiskey, Southern entrepreneurship, and Auburn connections.
Menu:
Friday, Aug. 28, 2026
6-7 pm
Rane Culinary Science Center
Distilled Beverages Lab
205 S College Street, Auburn, AL 36830
About the Speaker
Sir Paul Bissett is a Navy Veteran and a former Associate Brand Ambassador for William Grant & Sons (Glenfiddich, Balvenie etc.) He not only possesses an in-depth knowledge of the whiskey making process, but also the history of distilling. Sir Paul has also authored 20 books, nine of them on whiskey. He has hosted hundreds of whiskey events in Alabama, California, Oregon and Tennessee, and has been featured in many interviews on national television and radio. Under his tenure as Director of Tour Guides at Leiper’s Fork Distillery, they have made Travel and Leisure’s list of Top 25 whiskey distilleries to visit in America. For 12-years Sir Paul was the writer/editor of a whiskey newsletter that was distributed in ten different countries. He has trained Food and Beverage staff at hotels, restaurants and liquor distribution companies. Previously, he was a professional and volunteer firefighter with fire agencies here in the United States. Guests must be 21 or older and show proof of ID.
FAQ
What time doors open? 5:50 p.m.
What if I have a big group—will we sit together? Seating is available on a first come first served basis. It is recommended that you arrive in time to check-in enter when the doors open to secure seating together.
Is food served? Light snacks to accompany the whiskeys
Where do I park? Street parking is free after 6:00 p.m. You can park for free after 5:00 p.m. on the 2nd or 3rd floors of the parking deck adjacent to the Auburn University Hotel & Conference Center. To find more details about downtown parking, you may visit the City of Auburn’s website. Sometimes finding parking can be a challenge, so please allow yourself enough time. We don’t want you to miss a thing!
What is attire? There is no dress code, but business casual is suggested.
Price:
$85.00