TOAST, The Original Artisanal Spirits Tasting, is a celebration of artisan distilleries, local syrups and vermouths, great food, and all the people involved. Created and hosted by the Oregon Distillers Guild, it’s back for its sixth year, and has moved to the Pearl, in the Really BIG Video event space. The event will be on Saturday, February 27, from 4–10 PM.
 

TOAST 2016 will feature over 40 distilleries and wineries, including some new products such as Townshend’s Tea’s recently released line of tea-based liquor. The classics will all be in attendance, including Clear Creek, our original distillery and still one of our very best; Big Bottom Distilling, whose founder, Ted Pappas, works as the spokesperson for the guild; Vinn Distilling, an awesome female-owned distillery based in Portland; and many more. Most are from Oregon, but some, like Sound Spirits coming from Seattle, are guests.

Of course there will be excellent food to help soak up the booze. This year, TOAST hosts Swank & Swine, Lechon, Smallwares, Bellino Trattoria Siciliana, and the famous Pok Pok. Cocktails will be available for purchase at the bar, and entertainment provided throughout.
 

Tickets are available now and at the door. General Admission is $45. VIP tickets are $65 and include access to the VIP room, hour-early access, two cocktail coupons, and admission to the VIP after party with the distillers and more food. VIP tickets are limited, and may not be available day-of, so grab them while you can!

 

Due to the amount of liquor at the event, both TOAST and Drink Portland strongly encourage the use of Portland’s wonderful public transportation system. The MAX and streetcar both run blocks from the event, and many bus lines are in close walking distance. Designated driver passes are available for only $15 for those who just wish to sample food and meet distillers. Portland cabs, Lyft, and Uber are all viable resources as well. Please TOAST responsibly.

Photos by Alexander Frane