From Grain to Glass: A Whiskey Tasting Featuring Leiper’s Fork Distillery
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.
Friday, Aug. 28, 2026
6-7 pm
Rane Culinary Science Center, Distilled Beverages Lab
205 S College Street, Auburn, AL 36830
Bourbon | Tennessee Whiskey | Rye | Cigar Night Whiskey | Light snacks
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.
The micro-credential program in Wine Studies is a short, focused program that is perfect for wine enthusiasts, hospitality professionals, and lifelong learners who want to elevate their knowledge and credentials.
Wines of the Southern Hemisphere
Discover the bold, dynamic wines of the Southern Hemisphere in this lively micro-credential experience that pairs expert insight with hands-on tasting. From Australia’s celebrated regions to New Zealand’s standout Pinot Noir and the diverse expressions of Chile, South Africa, and Argentina, each session brings fresh flavors and fascinating stories to life.
Sharpen your palate as you compare cool- and warm-climate styles, explore terroir and winemaking techniques, and build confidence in every pour. The course culminates in an interactive final tasting and a celebratory Champagne toast—complete with a credential that showcases your newfound expertise.
Fall Semester Enrollment Now Open – Reserve Your Spot Today!
Dates: August 20, September 17, October 15, November 12, December 3, 2026
Join us for our monthly Summer Wine Tastings with Dr. David Martin. Each month features a different theme that will engage the senses and introduce you to what might be your new favorite wine.
In June, you will discover White Wines You Didn’t Know You Liked.
In honor of 250 years of our nation, we will celebrate fine American wines this July.
In August, we will Beat the Heat with cool wines for hot days.
About the Speaker
Dr. David Martin
Associate Professor and Level 1 Sommelier
A native of Birmingham, AL, David Martin is currently an Associate Professor with the Hospitality Management Program at Auburn University. He holds a Ph.D. from Auburn and is a Level 1 Sommelier. He is also a founding member of the Brewing Sciences and Operations program at Auburn University and is the coordinator for the Hotel and Restaurant Management track. Before starting his graduate studies, David worked in prestigious hotels such as the Ritz-Carlton in Naples, FL, The Eldorado Hotel in Santa Fe, NM, and the Wynfrey Hotel in Birmingham, AL, to name a few.
David has taught wine classes since starting his first job as a college professor at San Francisco State University in 2007. He has been fortunate to travel and participate in wine tastings and courses in some of the most recognizable wine-producing regions globally, including Napa and Sonoma Valley, The Champagne Region in France, The Mosel Valley in Germany, and many different regions of Italy.
In 2019, David was competitively selected to attend the Banfi Scholastic Tour of Italy, an immersive seven-day wine and food educational trip sponsored by Banfi Vintners. One student from the Hospitality Program was also funded to attend the trip. Previous students who have studied under David currently work with distributors such as Alabama Crown, United Johnson Brothers, E&J Gallo, and Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits. David has also placed students with wineries such as Trinchero Family Estates, Domaine Serene, Raptor Ridge, Robert Mondavi, Stags Leap, One Hope, Holman Ranch, and Continuum.
David hates wine snobbery, and while he appreciates and encourages people to try new wines and challenge their palate, his tried-and-true rule of thumb is that if it tastes good, drink it!
Tickets may be transferable. No refunds or exchanges will be given the week of an event.
For questions, contact Caitlin Myers.
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