Columbus, OH Bourbon Tasting Event
NEAT BOURBON EVENT
NEAT: A Bourbon Event Returns Saturday, July 25, 2026.
NEAT is coming back in Summer 2026 inside our Ohio Event Center at Cherry Valley Hotel. Sign up for our emails below or follow us on social media to be the first to hear about event announcements, ticket releases, and this year’s bourbon lineup.
What is NEAT?
NEAT is our signature summer bourbon event, held in the Ohio Event Center at Cherry Valley Hotel. It’s an immersive celebration of flavor, craftsmanship, and connection, featuring tastings from top distilleries, thoughtfully paired culinary experiences, education from industry experts, and a vibrant atmosphere filled with music and conversation. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just getting started, NEAT brings people together over great pours and shared stories.
What Is NEAT?
NEAT is more than a bourbon tasting, it’s an immersive, full-sensory experience. From heritage brands you recognize to rare finds and rising stars, NEAT brings together the best of bourbon culture. With live entertainment, relaxed lounge vibes, and hands-on education, it’s the perfect event for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers.
What to Expect:
A wide variety of bourbons and whiskeys to sample
Signature bourbon cocktails
Live music and a laid-back lounge atmosphere with tabletop games and space to sip, savor, and connect
Open-air cigar lounge under the stars
Bourbon crafters marketplace featuring local artisans and makers
Bourbon education sessions on food pairings, cocktail making, and bourbon history
Giveaways and surprise moments throughout the night
Every detail is designed to help you explore, unwind, and celebrate the spirit of bourbon.
Do I need to be 21 to attend? Can I bring my kids?
Yes. All attendees must be 21 or older and must show valid ID. No one under 21 will be admitted, including children.
Can I come if I don’t drink?
Absolutely. We offer Designated Driver tickets under General Admission, so you can still enjoy the atmosphere and entertainment without sampling.
Are tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable, but they are transferable. If you need to transfer your ticket to another guest, just email us.
Can I buy bottles at the event?
No bottles will be sold on-site. However, many distilleries will provide information on where to purchase your favorites after the event.
What about food?
There will be light bites available during the event. We strongly encourage guests to eat dinner before attending.
View Light Bites Menu
What are the rare bourbons?
We collect special bourbons throughout the year, and the final lineup is never published in advance. Part of the fun is discovering what rare or unique pours will be available when you arrive.
Will there be drinks beyond bourbon?
Yes. A full bar will be available, including beer, wine, and other spirits.
How do the tokens work?
Each guest will receive a set number of tasting tokens upon entry. Every bourbon will be labeled with a token value, typically one or two tokens, though select rare or high-end pours may require more. Additional tokens will be available for purchase at the event, with responsible limits in place.
Light Bites
NEAT is a light bite affair featuring small plates inspired by the bourbon flavor wheel — another way to explore the spirit. Guests can enjoy a special tasting class led by Whiskey Pete of Brown-Forman, distributor of Woodford and Old Forester. We recommend dining before the event and encourage reservations at Craftsman Kitchen & Terrace.
Classes
New this year, NEAT will feature interactive classes where guests can get hands-on with bourbon. Learn to craft cocktails, explore food pairings, and dive deeper into the spirit with sessions led by Whiskey Pete of Woodford, Watershed Distillery, and the experts from Columbus Bartending School.
Partner With NEAT
Showcase your brand at one of Ohio’s most anticipated bourbon events. NEAT offers high-impact sponsorship opportunities that put your company in front of an engaged audience of bourbon enthusiasts, food and beverage connoisseurs, and experience seekers from across the region.
Why Sponsor?
Connect with hundreds of attendees from Ohio and neighboring states
Build brand awareness in a premium, experiential setting
Activate your brand through tastings, displays, or giveaways
Enjoy on-site visibility, digital promotion, and media exposure
Whether you're a distillery, lifestyle brand, local business, or national name, we offer tailored sponsorship packages designed to meet your goals.
Interested in sponsoring NEAT? Contact Mary Dimitrijeska at mdimitrijeska@cherryvalleyhotel.com to learn more and request a sponsorship deck.
Sip Responsibly
At NEAT, we’re here to celebrate great bourbon and great company — safely and responsibly. All guests must be 21 or older and will be required to show valid ID at check-in. Our team is trained not to overserve, and we’ll be monitoring the event closely to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening.
If you need a ride, just let a staff member know. We’re happy to help arrange a taxi or rideshare service.
We want NEAT to be an event our community can enjoy for years to come. Help us keep it going strong by drinking mindfully and respecting the experience for everyone.
NEAT
