Beer/Liquor Tastings

Beer and Liquor Tastings at The Lift

Every so often The Lift hosts a tasting night: a chance to sample new beers, spirits or seasonal releases before you commit to a full pour. Tastings have been part of The Lift's calendar since 2013, when they ran on Thursday evenings from 5pm to 8pm through spring and summer. They are relaxed, social and a great way to find a new favorite.

How Tasting Nights Work

• Small pours. Try several beers or spirits side by side instead of guessing from a menu.
• Someone to ask. Our bartenders, and sometimes a brand or distributor rep, talk you through what you are tasting.
• Good company. Tastings draw regulars and newcomers alike, and the conversation is half the fun.
• Food nearby. Order shareables like queso dip, Idaho Tatchos or wings from our main menu to go with the pours.

When Is the Next Tasting?

Tastings are occasional rather than weekly. The easiest way to find out about the next one is to check our events page, follow The Lift on Facebook or Instagram, or call (208) 342-3250. In the meantime, Thursday is still a great beer night: every pitcher is $4 off, and Game Night Live Trivia starts at 7pm.

Explore Our Drinks Any Night

You do not need a tasting to try something new. Our drinks list covers beers on tap, bottled favorites, wines by the glass (including Idaho's Sawtooth Red Blend and Indian Creek Riesling) and signature cocktails and shots. Happy hour, Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm, takes $2 off drafts and $1 off wells and wine.

Tips for Getting the Most From a Tasting

• Taste lighter drinks first and work toward darker or stronger ones.
• Have a few bites of food between pours so your palate stays fresh.
• Take a photo of the labels you like so you can order them again.
• Plan your ride home before you start.

A Few Styles Worth Exploring

If you are new to tasting, it helps to know the basic families: crisp lagers and pilsners, hoppy IPAs, malty ambers and browns, dark stouts and porters, and fruity ciders like Angry Orchard. On the spirits side, tequila, whiskey and vodka each have lighter and richer styles. A tasting is the easiest way to compare them side by side and learn what you like.