Tasting @ Smith Commons

RJ's birthday was the perfect occasion to indulge in the Gilt City deal for a 5 course meal paired with whiskey and craft beer.  We both love craft beer and I am trying to expand my pallet for whiskeys - plus Smith Common's is an awesome restaurant with great decor, low-key vibe and in one of our favorite neighborhoods to explore: H Street NE.

I can't say enough about the friendly staff and set-up of the entire evening.  It was really a wonderful experience and made me want to branch out and try to do more food and drink pairing/tasting events.  

We were greeted with a choice of signature whiskey cocktail.    I got the Tarboro Viking

(Bourbon, Ginger Syrup, Lime juice, Angostura Bitters, Club Soda) and RJ got the James Brown Derby
(Bourbon, Grapefruit Juice, Honey Syrup)

Can't have a cocktail without an amuse bouche of beet salad with goat cheese

Then we sat down to begin the pairings.

The menu was delicious and each beverage was spoken about by a rep from the whiskey company (Michter's) and beer company (Allagash)

First

Allagash Dubbel and Michter’s US*1 American Whiskey served with pork belly, apple, pickled turnip, kimch

Second

Allagash White and Michter’s US*1 Rye served with textures of cauliflower

Third

Allagash Tripel and Michter’s Ten-Year Single-Barrel Rye served with tandoori-spiced scallop, orange chutney, Pop Rocks

Fourth

Allagash FOUR and Michter’s US*1 Unblended American Whiskey served with foie gras terrine, honey truffle and housemade brioche toast

Fifth

Allagash Curieux and Michter’s 25-Year Single-Barrel Bourbon served with Smith bread pudding, Michter’s bourbon sauce

pop rocks are insane! sooo delicious.

some of the Whiskey tastings were served as jellies - so interesting!

i'm obsessed with cauliflower.

foie gras - not my fave

favorite beer of the night

gift bags! we got token Michter's and Allagash glasses.

Such a  fun and delicious night! Happy Birthday RJ!