Oaks are an essential part of whiskey making, and an essential part of Illinois nature, too. Spend a fall afternoon at the Arboretum exploring the oaks required for the barrels used to make whiskey and enjoying a whiskey tasting hosted by local distillers Whiskey Acres from DeKalb, Illinois. Enjoy three one-ounce pours and light snacks. As you sip, owner Nick Nagele will share the history, lore, and distilling process of this popular American spirit.
Then, embark on an exploration of the Oak Collection, guided by Arboretum experts. Learn how to identify different groups of oaks, why they’re an important part of the local woodlands, and why they’re so good for the barrels used to produce whiskey. You’ll never think of whiskey the same way again.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Nick Nagele, owner, Whiskey Acres; Katrina Lewin, plant records coordinator, The Morton Arboretum.
Age: 21 and older
Course number: N023
Instructors
Nick Nagele, owner, Whiskey Acres
Nick Nagele is the owner of Whiskey Acres in DeKalb, Illinois. His family has been farming and making whiskey since the late 1800s, and Whiskey Acres continues that heritage today, growing every ingredient used in their products.
Katrina Lewin, plant records coordinator, The Morton Arboretum
Katrina Lewin has a bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture from the University of Illinois and has been a horticulturist at The Morton Arboretum since 2004. She enjoys teaching pruning and plant identification classes and is a frequent speaker at local garden clubs.
What to Know
This program meets outdoors. Check the forecast and dress for the weather.
Bring water. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and plan to walk up to a mile on uneven terrain.
Program Schedule
This program meets during these times; choose your session. Pricing is per session.
Saturday, November 2, 2024, noon to 1:30 p.m., or
Saturday, November 2, 2024, 2:30 to 4:00 p.m.
Gateway to Tree Science (Parking Lot 8), East Side
