Battle of the Barrels: Tufts Lawyers Association Whiskey Tasting

On Thursday, February 19, please join the Tufts Lawyers Association for a whiskey tasting Version 2.0 in our nation’s capital! During this event, which will be led by Ethan Weitzman, A07, you’ll taste several private barrels and allocated bourbons and ryes.  In the process you’ll learn a bit about the history of Whiskey in the USA and discuss legal requirements for a whiskey to be called a bourbon or a rye and the associated marketing language like "straight bourbon," "small batch," "single barrel," and more.  Most importantly, we are going to examine the importance of mashbills, aging, and the concept of art vs science while drinking some bottles that you won't be able to find at your local store.    

Back by popular demand, we will be joined by a friend of Tufts, Ted Spiropolous, owner of Town Center Market in Riverdale, Maryland. Ted will provide a unique perspective on the business end of this highly regulated industry and walk us through the nuances of selecting and marketing private barrels.  Come ready to compete for some prizes and connect with your fellow Jumbos. Heavy appetizers will be served.

Many thanks Malcolm, who is generously hosting our group for this event!

About TLA: The Tufts Lawyers Association is an organization of alumni in the legal profession designed to serve the university while providing networking opportunities for members. The DC chapter is co-chaired by Ethan Weitzman, A07, Perry Choren, A08, and Malcolm Slee, A94. 

About Ethan: Ethan Weitzman is Class of 07 and Co-Chair of the DC chapter of the Tufts Lawyers Association.  He is a whiskey enthusiast, veteran of the DC whiskey scene and collector for over 10 years with a collection of over 400 bottles, some dating back to WW2. Ethan majored in history at Tufts, he still reads plenty of history books, especially ones about whiskey and its historical importance to the early stages of the USA.  Ethan is the Director of Corporate Legal and Data Protection Officer for Fareportal Inc, an online travel agency and travel technology company.  Previously, Ethan was the Data Protection Officer and Corporate Counsel for the USA operations of Lidl (the largest grocery store chain in the World) where he advised on alcohol advertising, promotions, distribution, packaging and delivery. 

About Perry: Perry is a civil litigator in Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker's D.C. office, where he defends companies that have been sued in the areas of complex tort, medical malpractice, premises liability, real estate, privacy, and international shipping. Outside of the office, Perry is a husband and father to his wife and baby son, an avid golfer and runner, and a devout Broncos/Nuggets/Avs fan.

About Malcolm: Malcolm is currently a principal at the Groom Law Group, where he specializes in employee benefits and tax law and co-chairs the Employers and Sponsors Group.

Cost: $30 per person including guests.