On Saturday evening, Dec. 6, Smooth Ambler Spirits hosted an exclusive whiskey experience for an enthusiastic and philanthropic crowd. An auction of custom, and hard to find, Smooth Ambler bottlings was held with proceeds from the evening allocated to benefit the various charities of the United Way of the Greenbrier Valley. Thanks to the generosity of Smooth Ambler Spirits, several thousand dollars were raised at the first of what will possibly become an annual event. While the auction raised roughly $3,800, SAS Partner Greg Parseghian didn’t think that was quite enough; so he donated an extra $1,200 to take the final donation amount to over $5,000. The unique event attracted bidders and Whiskey enthusiasts from as far away as Rhode Island. Cocktails and Bites were served to guests prior to auction while folks perused the handful of available small lots of custom bottles. The ever-entertaining Steve Hunter was on hand to rouse the crowd and serve as auctioneer. United Way of the Greenbrier Valley’s Executive Director, Cindy Lavender-Bowe praised the successful event and offered thanks to SAS owners and staff. “The folks at Smooth Ambler Spirits have always been generous supporters of their communities and we are honored that chose to donate these funds to benefit the charities of the United Way of the Greenbrier Valley.” SAS partner John Little believes in the community centered efforts of the United Way of the Greenbrier Valley and is especially passionate about helping families become financially stable and independent. “We are thrilled to be a part of this effort in supporting the United Way and its programs in our communities,” says Little. “Most of us have special people in our lives that have influenced us. My mom encouraged me to work hard and planted the seed to give back to others and my community. I hope that we can make a few lives better as a result of this event.” Smooth Ambler Spirits Distillery patiently crafts Appalachian Spirits - Bourbon Whiskey, Vodka, Gin, Barrel Aged Gin, White Whiskey, and whatever else they can dream up. All produced in a magnificent 650 liter Christian Carl pot still and a 350 gallon Vendome Still. SAS encourages you to Please Drink Responsibly. The annual UWGBV campaign continues through March 2015. The fundraising goal for United Way of the Greenbrier Valley’s 2014 Campaign is $250,000. Annually, over $200,000 are raised in support of local programs. 100 percent of these funds are raised locally and UWGBV serves thousands of residents in Greenbrier, Monroe, and Pocahontas counties. Smooth Ambler Spirits Distillery and Tasting Room is located at 745 Industrial Park Road, Maxwelton. Call 304-497-3123 for more information. For more information or to make a donation to UW, call Carol at 304-647-3783 or visit us online at www.unitedwaygreenbrier.org.
