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CHATHAM — Brian Sleet loved a good bourbon almost as much as he loved Chicago, and now a Chatham liquor store is honoring his memory through sales of a special limited-release batch.
Bottles of “1792: Bottled in Bond” have been flying off shelves since A&S Beverages, 308 E. 75th St., announced the sale last week, according to owner Ahmad “Eddie” Elkhatib.
The bourbon is Barton 1792 Distillery in Kentucky’s annual special release. A&S Beverages is using the release to raise money in Sleet’s honor. Half of the proceeds from sales will benefit Something Good in Englewood, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Englewood residents.
Elkhatib and his wife, Hanya, developed a close relationship with Sleet, who often stopped by the shop for tastings and conversation.
Sleet’s sudden death from a brain hemorrhage in December 2018 deeply affected the Elkhatibs. He was 41.
“We met when he was [Cook County State’s Attorney] Kim Foxx’s campaign manager,” Elkhatib said. “He was special, and one of our biggest supporters.”
Known for his political acumen, Sleet was one of the most sought-after consultants in the game. In addition to helping Foxx, he also helmed the campaigns of Alds. Roderick Sawyer (6th) and Sophia King (4th).
“Brian was such a kind-hearted man. He walked slow but left a big footprint. He was always after the next big thing, but he was humble. A pure soul,” Hanya said.
Credit: Chicago Urban LeagueElkhatb said friends and family of Sleet have been coming in to see the display and buy bottles for themselves.
“It has a complex taste,” said Elkhatib. “It’s sweet and oaky, with a smooth finish. It has notes of rye, corn, caramel and shortbread.”
“His family even took pictures by the barrel. They really love it,” he said.
Bottles are available for $39.99 each at both the 308 E. 75th St. location and the store at 5058 S. Halsted St.
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