There’s something timeless about whiskey. It’s not just a spirit…it’s a story in glass. From the charred oak barrels of Kentucky to the windswept distilleries of Scotland, every pour carries history, craftsmanship, and intention. At the AC Hotel Minneapolis West End, that philosophy is at the heart of our bar program…and now, it has a dedicated guide.
Allow me to introduce myself.
My name is Andrew Rohlik, Food & Beverage Director at the AC Hotel Minneapolis West End, and I’m proud to serve as your in-house whiskey specialist. With over 20 years in the food and beverage industry and the past 4 years deeply focused on whiskey specialization, I’ve built a program that blends hospitality experience with genuine passion and knowledge.
How It Started
My journey into whiskey wasn’t planned; it was personal.
After my first spine surgery, I found myself on bedrest with time I didn’t know how to fill. I had always enjoyed the occasional, everyday whiskey, but I had never gone deeper than that. Looking for something to engage my mind, I came across the WhiskyCast on Spotify, and that’s where everything changed.
What started as curiosity quickly turned into obsession…in the best way.
With a 45-minute daily commute, I began listening constantly. One episode turned into dozens… then hundreds… eventually over 1,000 episodes. What stood out wasn’t just opinions on taste…it was the depth. Real conversations with distillers, detailed discussions on production, aging, regional differences, and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
Listening to Mark Gillespie and the voices of distilleries around the world gave me an appreciation for whiskey that goes far beyond the glass. It shaped how I taste, how I select, and how I share whiskey with others.
A Collection Built for Exploration
At our hotel, we proudly feature over 400 whiskies on the shelf, creating one of the most expansive and thoughtfully curated selections in the area. This collection is designed to be approachable for newcomers and rewarding for seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Expect to find:
· Classic Kentucky bourbons with rich caramel and vanilla profiles
· Rye whiskeys offering spice and complexity
· Single malt Scotch ranging from delicate and floral to bold and peated
· Japanese whiskies known for balance and precision
· Limited releases and single barrels you won’t find just anywhere
Every bottle has been selected with purpose…to tell a story and offer a unique experience.
More Than a Pour
Being a whiskey specialist isn’t about pointing at a menu…it’s about creating an experience. My goal is to help guests find their whiskey. That might mean guiding you toward a new favorite, building a custom flight, or sharing the story behind what’s in your glass. At the AC Hotel Minneapolis West End, whiskey is meant to be enjoyed, not intimidated by.
Two Distinct Places to Enjoy
Where you enjoy your whiskey matters just as much as what’s in your glass.
· Rooftop Bar – An elevated setting with skyline views, perfect for a sunset pour, a crafted whiskey cocktail, or a curated flight in a vibrant atmosphere.
· Lounge Bar – A more intimate and relaxed environment inside the hotel, ideal for slowing down and exploring a neat pour from our collection.
Whether you’re looking for energy and views or something more classic and quiet, both spaces are designed to enhance the whiskey experience.
What’s Next
This blog is just the beginning.
Going forward, I’ll be sharing:
· Featured whiskey highlights and tasting notes
· Educational breakdowns (bourbon vs. rye, aging, barrel influence)
· Behind-the-scenes insights into how we select bottles
· Seasonal cocktail features and pairing ideas
· Exclusive releases and tasting event announcements
Whether you’re new to whiskey or have been enjoying it for years, my goal is to make this space informative, approachable, and worth your time.
Join Me at the Bar
If you’re staying with us or live nearby, I invite you to stop in, take a seat, and start a conversation. Whiskey is always better when it’s shared, and I’m here to make sure your experience is one worth remembering.
Here’s to great whiskey—and even better company.