Rare Bourbon, Signature Cocktails, and Community -- Find It All At Aged in Oak in Vernon Hills
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Earlier this season, Vernon Hills, IL welcomed a space where curiosity meets craftsmanship. Aged in Oak opened its doors at 935 Lakeview Parkway Suite 111, offering a unique tasting parlor experience for bourbon collectors, connoisseurs, and the curious. Whether you’re coming from Chicago, IL, Milwaukee, WI, or surrounding suburbs, this is a destination where rare bottles, inventive cocktails, and Midwestern hospitality come together.
Inside the tasting parlor, shelves are stacked with rare and collectible bourbons, warm oak accents set the tone, and the inviting aroma of bourbon and fresh citrus draws you in. Every visit offers something new — from expertly crafted cocktails to the stories behind each pour — making it a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.
A Playground for the Curious
Our tasting parlor isn’t just a place to sip — it’s a space to explore, experiment, and enjoy bourbon on your terms:
- Build Your Own Old Fashioned: Craft a drink straight from the barrel, tailored to your personal taste.
- Signature Cocktails Worth Chasing: From the Chocolate Bourbon Old Fashioned made with Buffalo Trace to the Smoked Bourbon Sour using Chicken Cock Double Oak finished with bourbon barrel smoke, and the sweet, refreshing Bourbon Cherry-tini with Four Roses.
- Specialty Sips: For those who enjoy variety, we offer wine, beer, and rotating creations like the Down the Barrel Vodka Cocktail, Lavender Gin Fizz, and decadent Dubai Chocolate Martini.
The People Behind the Pour
For James, Doug, and Justin, Aged in Oak is more than a business — it’s a way to share something meaningful with the region. Every pour, cocktail, and story reflects a passion for bourbon culture and community. Guests leave with more than a drink; they leave with a connection, whether they are seasoned collectors, casual sippers, or curious newcomers.
Private Tastings, Big Moments
Planning a small private tasting, birthday celebration, or larger corporate event? Aged in Oak’s tasting parlor can accommodate it all.
- Intimate Gatherings: Perfect for friends or family, each guest can build their own old fashioned or sample signature cocktails with guidance from our expert team.
- Corporate & Larger Events: Impress clients or celebrate milestones with curated bourbon experiences, specialty cocktails, and a space designed for conversation and connection.
No matter the size, our private tastings bring flavor, education, and memorable moments together for every occasion.
Hours & Where to Find Us
Stop by for casual sipping or book your own event:
- Monday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Location: 935 Lakeview Parkway Suite 111, Vernon Hills, IL — easily accessible from Chicago, Milwaukee, and surrounding suburbs.
Why You Should Stop By
Aged in Oak isn’t just a tasting room — it’s a community hub for bourbon lovers. From building your own old fashioned to sipping rare collectibles, every visit invites you to explore, savor, and connect. Collectors, connoisseurs, and the bourbon-curious alike are welcome to enjoy our welcoming space and expert guidance.
Whether you’re hunting for your next rare bourbon, enjoying a night out with friends, or booking a private tasting for a big moment, Aged in Oak proves that bourbon culture can be thoughtful, approachable, and distinctly Midwestern.
More Fresh Pours and Perspectives
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Bourbon Through the Ages: The Stories Behind America’s Spirit
Bourbon isn’t just America’s native spirit — it’s a story in every sip. From its Kentucky roots to modern craft distillers experimenting with new mash bills and aging techniques, bourbon’s journey blends tradition, innovation, and a touch of rebellion. Whether you’re chasing collectible bottles, exploring small-batch favorites, or just learning what makes bourbon bourbon, these fascinating facts uncover the legends, rules, and hidden gems behind the whiskey that shaped American history.
Bourbon Through the Ages: The Stories Behind America’s Spirit
Bourbon isn’t just America’s native spirit — it’s a story in every sip. From its Kentucky roots to modern craft distillers experimenting with new mash bills and aging techniques, bourbon’s journey blends tradition, innovation, and a touch of rebellion. Whether you’re chasing collectible bottles, exploring small-batch favorites, or just learning what makes bourbon bourbon, these fascinating facts uncover the legends, rules, and hidden gems behind the whiskey that shaped American history.
Fall Into Flavor: Bourbon Recipes That Hit Harder Than Pumpkin Spice
Fall is the season for bourbon cocktails that capture autumn flavors. From a maple bourbon old-fashioned with Woodford Reserve to a pear & maple smash with Frank August Small Batch, these recipes pair seasonal ingredients with premium, collectible bourbons. Cozy, bold, and sophisticated, these cocktails are perfect for entertaining — and don’t forget to check our online bourbon auction for rare bottles to elevate your bar cart.
Fall Into Flavor: Bourbon Recipes That Hit Harder Than Pumpkin Spice
Fall is the season for bourbon cocktails that capture autumn flavors. From a maple bourbon old-fashioned with Woodford Reserve to a pear & maple smash with Frank August Small Batch, these recipes pair seasonal ingredients with premium, collectible bourbons. Cozy, bold, and sophisticated, these cocktails are perfect for entertaining — and don’t forget to check our online bourbon auction for rare bottles to elevate your bar cart.
What Your Go-To Pour Says About You: A Bourbon Personality Test You Didn’t Know You Needed
What does your favorite bourbon say about you? Whether you’re a Weller loyalist, a Blanton’s believer, or a Wild Turkey troublemaker, your go-to pour is basically a personality test in a glass. From smooth talkers to barrel-proof daredevils, here’s what your bourbon choice really reveals — no ice cubes, no lies.
What Your Go-To Pour Says About You: A Bourbon Personality Test You Didn’t Know You Needed
What does your favorite bourbon say about you? Whether you’re a Weller loyalist, a Blanton’s believer, or a Wild Turkey troublemaker, your go-to pour is basically a personality test in a glass. From smooth talkers to barrel-proof daredevils, here’s what your bourbon choice really reveals — no ice cubes, no lies.
From Still to Auction Block: How Bourbon Matures (And Why Oak Is Everything)
How does bourbon age? Discover the role of oak barrels, charred staves, and years of patience in shaping rare bourbon’s flavor, color, and value — from distillery to auction block.
From Still to Auction Block: How Bourbon Matures (And Why Oak Is Everything)
How does bourbon age? Discover the role of oak barrels, charred staves, and years of patience in shaping rare bourbon’s flavor, color, and value — from distillery to auction block.
Weller Bourbon: The People’s Pappy and the Wheated Whiskey That Broke the Market
Discover how Weller went from overlooked shelf bourbon to one of the most hunted bottles in whiskey. Learn why Weller is called the “People’s Pappy,” and what makes it a collector’s dream at bourbon auctions.
Weller Bourbon: The People’s Pappy and the Wheated Whiskey That Broke the Market
Discover how Weller went from overlooked shelf bourbon to one of the most hunted bottles in whiskey. Learn why Weller is called the “People’s Pappy,” and what makes it a collector’s dream at bourbon auctions.
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Crown Jewel Bourbon Bottles: The Ultimate Collectible Whiskey for Serious Collectors
Discover what makes a bourbon bottle a true Crown Jewel. Learn how rarity, provenance, flavor, and auction prestige turn ordinary whiskey into high-end collectibles — and find them at Aged in Oak Auctions.
Crown Jewel Bourbon Bottles: The Ultimate Collectible Whiskey for Serious Collectors
Discover what makes a bourbon bottle a true Crown Jewel. Learn how rarity, provenance, flavor, and auction prestige turn ordinary whiskey into high-end collectibles — and find them at Aged in Oak Auctions.
How Global Market Trends Are Shaping the Whiskey Collectible Space in 2025
Discover how global whiskey market trends are shaping the collectible space in 2025. From rising demand and investment value to rare bourbon scarcity, learn what collectors need to know — and see what’s hitting the auction block at Aged in Oak.
How Global Market Trends Are Shaping the Whiskey Collectible Space in 2025
Discover how global whiskey market trends are shaping the collectible space in 2025. From rising demand and investment value to rare bourbon scarcity, learn what collectors need to know — and see what’s hitting the auction block at Aged in Oak.
Bid Boldly. Sip Exceptionally. Dominate the Auction.
Discover how bourbon auctions work at Aged in Oak. From unicorn bottles like Pappy Van Winkle and George T. Stagg to sleeper picks like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, learn smart bidding strategies and start building your collection today.
Bid Boldly. Sip Exceptionally. Dominate the Auction.
Discover how bourbon auctions work at Aged in Oak. From unicorn bottles like Pappy Van Winkle and George T. Stagg to sleeper picks like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, learn smart bidding strategies and start building your collection today.
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We’re in the Daily Herald: Building a Bourbon Community in Vernon Hills
Aged in Oak is more than an auction house — it’s a bourbon community in Vernon Hills. Featured in the Daily Herald, we bring together collectors, curious sippers, and cocktail lovers for auctions, tastings, and hands-on experiences. Come for the bourbon, stay for the connections.
We’re in the Daily Herald: Building a Bourbon Community in Vernon Hills
Aged in Oak is more than an auction house — it’s a bourbon community in Vernon Hills. Featured in the Daily Herald, we bring together collectors, curious sippers, and cocktail lovers for auctions, tastings, and hands-on experiences. Come for the bourbon, stay for the connections.
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From Shelf to Sip: The People Who Keep Bourbon Alive
Bourbon isn’t just liquid fire — it’s a magnet for hunters, dreamers, adventurers, and anyone who thrives on a good story with every pour. Rare bottles carry history, chaos, and ambition, and the people who collect them are just as vibrant as the spirits they cherish. In the Bourbon Collective, shelves are as varied as personalities, trades are more than transactions, and every pour sparks connection. This isn’t a dusty club of old bottles—it’s a living, breathing culture where the spirit grows, moves, and thrives through the people who share it.
From Shelf to Sip: The People Who Keep Bourbon Alive
Bourbon isn’t just liquid fire — it’s a magnet for hunters, dreamers, adventurers, and anyone who thrives on a good story with every pour. Rare bottles carry history, chaos, and ambition, and the people who collect them are just as vibrant as the spirits they cherish. In the Bourbon Collective, shelves are as varied as personalities, trades are more than transactions, and every pour sparks connection. This isn’t a dusty club of old bottles—it’s a living, breathing culture where the spirit grows, moves, and thrives through the people who share it.
The Hunt for the Holy Grail: Rare Bourbon Bottles That Define Collecting
Some bottles aren’t just bourbon — they’re legends. From Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year and Willett Purple Reign XII to hidden gems like Thirteenth Colony Double Oaked and Knob Creek 18 Year, we break down what makes a bottle collectible and why smart collectors chase both grails and sleepers. Learn the secrets behind rarity, flavor, and hype — and bid boldly to own a piece of whiskey history.
The Hunt for the Holy Grail: Rare Bourbon Bottles That Define Collecting
Some bottles aren’t just bourbon — they’re legends. From Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year and Willett Purple Reign XII to hidden gems like Thirteenth Colony Double Oaked and Knob Creek 18 Year, we break down what makes a bottle collectible and why smart collectors chase both grails and sleepers. Learn the secrets behind rarity, flavor, and hype — and bid boldly to own a piece of whiskey history.
Cash Out Without Selling Out: How to Consign Bourbon with Aged in Oak
Your bottles deserve more than dust. Here’s how to turn them into real money (without the long wait or shady Facebook groups).
Cash Out Without Selling Out: How to Consign Bourbon with Aged in Oak
Your bottles deserve more than dust. Here’s how to turn them into real money (without the long wait or shady Facebook groups).
Not Your Grandfather’s Bourbon: The Rise of the Next-Gen Collector
Dust off the stereotypes — today’s bourbon collectors aren’t your grandfather’s club of stuffy enthusiasts. They’re bold, curious, and flipping the bourbon world on its head.
Not Your Grandfather’s Bourbon: The Rise of the Next-Gen Collector
Dust off the stereotypes — today’s bourbon collectors aren’t your grandfather’s club of stuffy enthusiasts. They’re bold, curious, and flipping the bourbon world on its head.
When to Let Go: Knowing It’s Time to Consign Your Bourbon
Your shelves are full, your collection is solid — but sometimes the smartest move is letting a few bottles go. Learn the signs that it’s time to consign, how to maximize value, and why trusting the right auction house can turn prized pours into opportunity.
When to Let Go: Knowing It’s Time to Consign Your Bourbon
Your shelves are full, your collection is solid — but sometimes the smartest move is letting a few bottles go. Learn the signs that it’s time to consign, how to maximize value, and why trusting the right auction house can turn prized pours into opportunity.
The Gospel According to Pappy: Why This Bottle Rules the Bourbon Underworld
From backroom sales pitches to black-market heists, Pappy Van Winkle’s rise is the stuff of bourbon legend. Here’s why this elusive bottle still rules every collector’s wish list.
The Gospel According to Pappy: Why This Bottle Rules the Bourbon Underworld
From backroom sales pitches to black-market heists, Pappy Van Winkle’s rise is the stuff of bourbon legend. Here’s why this elusive bottle still rules every collector’s wish list.
Tapping a Bourbon Barrel with RD1 Distillery
In collaboration with RD1 Distillery, join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what happens when a collector taps their very own bourbon barrel. From the hiss of the bung to the first fragrant pour, this video captures every moment of anticipation.
Tapping a Bourbon Barrel with RD1 Distillery
In collaboration with RD1 Distillery, join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what happens when a collector taps their very own bourbon barrel. From the hiss of the bung to the first fragrant pour, this video captures every moment of anticipation.
Crafting the "Circa 1856 Old Fashioned" at Chicken Cock
In this exclusive clip from Chicken Cock’s Bardstown tasting room, Aged in Oak Co-Founder Justin Pantle shows you how to craft a truly historic riff on the Old Fashioned. Gather your rye, light your torch, and join us for a taste of cocktail lore.
Crafting the "Circa 1856 Old Fashioned" at Chicken Cock
In this exclusive clip from Chicken Cock’s Bardstown tasting room, Aged in Oak Co-Founder Justin Pantle shows you how to craft a truly historic riff on the Old Fashioned. Gather your rye, light your torch, and join us for a taste of cocktail lore.
Aged in Oak Debuts Online Bourbon Community May 15, with Auctions and Bottle Appraisals Coming Summer 2025
Built by collectors, for collectors, the launch marks the first phase of a broader rollout, including expert-led appraisals and in-person events.
Aged in Oak Debuts Online Bourbon Community May 15, with Auctions and Bottle Appraisals Coming Summer 2025
Built by collectors, for collectors, the launch marks the first phase of a broader rollout, including expert-led appraisals and in-person events.
