The second annual Bourbon & Benevolence will be held Thursday, Dec. 12. | Courtesy of KOBBE

I was fortunate to meet KOBBE founder Jamar Mack in 2017 as he was just starting his bourbon-centered group, which is an acronym for Kentucky’s Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts. Since then, KOBBE has grown in membership and outreach. And yes, anyone who loves bourbon as much as Mack — or even if you just want to learn more about the spirit — can join.

One of the key components of KOBBE is giving back to the community, and its second annual Bourbon & Benevolence fundraiser is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Ice House. I was fortunate to attend the first event and can attest to its quality. There are many bourbon events held in town throughout the year, but Bourbon & Benevolence was one of my favorites because it was intimate but included numerous samples from Kentucky distilleries.

This year, Mack promises the offerings will be even bigger and better, as 14 distilleries have come aboard to partner with KOBBE, including Wild Turkey, Michter’s, Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, Uncle Nearest, Old Forester and many more.

Plus, there will be a buffet and dessert bar to go along with the bourbon, and a pretty legit silent auction. All proceeds will go to the Chestnut Street Family YMCA, which is near and dear to KOBBE’s heart and mission.

And because you’re reading this now, you get a reward! Discounted tickets for Bourbon & Benevolence are on sale RIGHT NOW until Friday, Nov. 1 — or until they sell out. So click here and go grab your early-bird tickets for $65. After Friday, they go up to $100.