I've been noticing a trend lately — one I'm quite fond of — the pairing of delicious dishes and libations in the form of tasting events at local establishments. You can find beer dinners, wine tastings and now add to the list the Kentucky Bourbon Trail this week at Maxwell's Speakeasy.

Beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday (Aug. 22), hosts Todd Buckley and bartendress Liliana Franz will guide you through a historical bourbon trail with seven bourbons paired with seven perfect bites. Yes, not only is this a bourbon tasting with complimentary dishes, this is also a history lesson on the brown liquor. Now you can be educated and know all about your booze of choice. Featured bourbons of the evening include Heaven Hill, Four Roses, Jim Beam Devil's Cut, Wild Turkey Rye, Maker's 46, Woodinville Whiskey and Woodford Reserve.

Maxwell's new executive chef Hudson Slater (who has been with Maxwell's Speakeasy sporadically since its inception and recently has moved up the ranks from Maxwell's sous chef to his current position) has produced a menu exclusively for this event with dishes infused with loads of flavor and peppered with Cajun influence, starting with an ahi crudo served with a radish salad and chimichurri and candied green peppercorns. Main dishes like an espresso and cinnamon rubbed, seared duck breast, ginger carrot puree and crispy tarragon and orange oil, and finishing with sweet eats in a smoked chocolate pate and a grilled peach desserts.

Tickets are only $39 must be purchased before the event, as space is limited to 25 guests. Be prepared for a historical and tasty journey.

(Maxwell's Speakeasy, 454 St. Helens Ave. Tacoma, 253.683.4115)