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Tuesday, July 19
 

10:00am CDT

Founder’s Tour of Atelier Vie
Feedback Survey
What:
Atelier Vie distills absinthe and gin in New Orleans. Founded by Jedd Haas, this special TOTC tour led by Jedd Haas will take you through the distillation process and a spirited tasting of Toulouse Red, Absinthe Rouge; Toulouse Green, Absinthe Verte; Euphrosine Gin #9; and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve.

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Toulouse Red, released in 2012, was the first Louisina absinthe since Prohibition. Toulouse Green, released in 2013, uses locally-grown wormwood. Euphrosine Gin #9 has won multiple gold medals in national spirits competitions, and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve is the first barrel-aged gin from Louisiana.

When:
Four tours will be available on Tuesday, July 19th; at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. Due to the small size of the distillery and the personalized attention you will receive from the founder, each tour is limited to 12 guests. There is a $10 fee to reserve your spot. Reservation payments can be made via the Paypal link below.

Buy Tickets Now

Where:
Atelier Vie is located 5 minutes from downtown by cab at 1001 S. Broad St. This is underneath the Broad St. overpass, at the intersection of Broad St. and Euphrosine St. Detailed maps and directions are available on our site at http://ateliervie.com/visit Please arrive 10 minutes in advance of the start time. We may have a guide at Hotel Monteleone who will gather all participants and help you find a shared cab to the distillery.

Special Deal!
Free Euphrosine Season t-shirt with purchase of 2 bottles or more (limit 1 per visitor, while supplies last.) Bottles of all spirits will be available for retail purchase and can be signed by Jedd Haas on request.


Sponsors
avatar for Atelier Vie

Atelier Vie

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Find recipes and share our adventures via social media and ateliervie.com.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Atelier Vie
  Special Events, Distillery Day

11:00am CDT

Cold Beer and Hot Sausage: Urban South Brewery Tour
Feedback Survey
Urban South Brewery is New Orleans' newest and hottest microbrewery. Opened in early 2016, Urban South produces two flagship ales - Holy Roller IPA and Charming Wit, and operates an industrial tasting room in the heart of the city where they serve special one-off varieties. This event includes a private brewery tour, two pints of beer of your choice, a commemorative Urban South pint glass, and delicious Louisiana sausage po-boys with fixins.

BUY TICKETS 
Sponsors
avatar for Urban South Brewery

Urban South Brewery

Urban South Brewery is New Orleans' newest and hottest microbrewery. Opened in early 2016, Urban South produces two flagship ales - Holy Roller IPA and Charming Wit, and operates an industrial tasting room in the heart of the city.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Urban South Brewery
  Special Events, Distillery Day

11:00am CDT

Distillery Day: Fine Rum Process Demonstration- Celebration Distillation, makers of Old New Orleans Rum and Gingeroo
Feedback Survey
The process of making a fine rum requires many exacting details - a true marriage of science and art. Head Distiller Mike Kelly will demonstrate the different fascinating steps that create Old New Orleans Rum.

Celebration Distillation, America's oldest operating rum distillery, invites guests interested in learning about open lid fermentation, wild fermentation, barrel repair and barrel charring. Mike will talk about how each of these steps affects flavor and quality of the product.

Our trophy case keeps growing as more and more folks discover that a locally sourced rum can be high quality and an artisanal experience. Our Twentieth Anniversary Blend, King Creole has just received a Platinum Award as the highest scoring rum in the Continental United States.

Naturally, guests will be treated to samples of King Creole, as well as our other awesome products.

As an added treat, Big Easy Bucha will offer kombucha samples; and the popular food trucks will be on hand with delicious fare. 

For guests who sign up in advance, we'll tap a barrel and give a sip of never-before tasted rum. Tales of the Cocktail participants will also receive a 200ml bottle of a special rum blend.

The distillery is only minutes from downtown, and we offer a shuttle from the French Quarter.

Tour times are noon, 2 pm and 4 pm, but there will be demonstrations throughout the day.

Please call 504-945-4500 or email stacy@oldneworleansrum.com and to join us for Distillery Day.
Sponsors
avatar for Old New Orleans Rum

Tuesday July 19, 2016 11:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Old New Orleans Rum
  Special Events, Distillery Day

12:00pm CDT

Founder’s Tour of Atelier Vie
Feedback Survey
What:
Atelier Vie distills absinthe and gin in New Orleans. Founded by Jedd Haas, this special TOTC tour led by Jedd Haas will take you through the distillation process and a spirited tasting of Toulouse Red, Absinthe Rouge; Toulouse Green, Absinthe Verte; Euphrosine Gin #9; and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve.

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Toulouse Red, released in 2012, was the first Louisina absinthe since Prohibition. Toulouse Green, released in 2013, uses locally-grown wormwood. Euphrosine Gin #9 has won multiple gold medals in national spirits competitions, and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve is the first barrel-aged gin from Louisiana.

When:
Four tours will be available on Tuesday, July 19th; at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. Due to the small size of the distillery and the personalized attention you will receive from the founder, each tour is limited to 12 guests. There is a $10 fee to reserve your spot. Reservation payments can be made via the Paypal link below.

Buy Tickets Now

Where:
Atelier Vie is located 5 minutes from downtown by cab at 1001 S. Broad St. This is underneath the Broad St. overpass, at the intersection of Broad St. and Euphrosine St. Detailed maps and directions are available on our site at http://ateliervie.com/visit Please arrive 10 minutes in advance of the start time. We may have a guide at Hotel Monteleone who will gather all participants and help you find a shared cab to the distillery.

Special Deal!
Free Euphrosine Season t-shirt with purchase of 2 bottles or more (limit 1 per visitor, while supplies last.) Bottles of all spirits will be available for retail purchase and can be signed by Jedd Haas on request.
Sponsors
avatar for Atelier Vie

Atelier Vie

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Find recipes and share our adventures via social media and ateliervie.com.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Atelier Vie
  Special Events, Distillery Day

12:00pm CDT

Distillery Day with Donner-Peltier Distillers: Got Whiskey? Got Rum? Got Vodka? Got Gin?
Feedback Survey
Journey with us to Cajun Country to experience Louisiana's only producer of Whiskey, Rum, Vodka, & Gin all in one distillery. You will enjoy an afternoon of culture, food, and award-winning Rougaroux Sugarshine Rum, Rougaroux Full Moon Rum, Rougaroux 13 Pennies Praline Rum, Oryza Vodka, Oryza Gin, & LA1 Whiskey.

Featured in Garden & Gun Magazine, The Travel Channel, Food & Wine, Delta Sky Magazine, & The Local Palate, Donner-Peltier Distillers is located 65 minutes from downtown New Orleans. You will be welcomed with cocktails, learn how we distill all of our products, and enjoy small bites of local food.  You’ll also learn the about the legend of the Rougaroux, leave with a bottle of our award winning spirits, and one lucky guest will receive a bottle of our limited LA1 Whiskey. Come enjoy the Spirits of The South.

BUY TICKETS NOW 

* Transportation to and from New Orleans included

Time: 12:00
Pick Up Location: Palace Cafe (Complimentary Bloody Mary's from Palace Cafe)

Transportation provided from New Orleans to Thibodaux and back

Cost: $25.00

Highlights of our products:

LA1 Whiskey:


  • Gold Medal Winner San Francisco Spirits

  • Louisiana’s first aged whiskey since prohibition



Rougaroux Sugarshine Rum:


  • Double Gold Medal Winner San Francisco Spirits

  • Gold Medal Winner World Spirits Awards

  • 93 Rating by BTI (highest rated rum being produced in Louisiana)



Rougaroux Full Moon Rum:


  • Gold Medal World Spirits Award

  • Chilled Magazine names Rougaroux Full Moon Rum as 8 Rums for Right Now (June 11, 2015)



Rougaroux 13 Pennies Praline Rum:


  • A truly unique rum, infused with toasted pecans grown in Louisiana.



Oryza Vodka:


  • Gold Medal World Spirits Award

  • 50 Best Gold Medal Award

  • Only Vodka in the US to use domestically grown rice



Oryza Gin:


  • 50 Best Gold Medal Award

  • 91 Rating by BTI


More about Donner-Peltier Distillers

“Handcrafted for the Soul”

Located in the heart of Sugarcane Country, you will find our distillery where we make Rougaroux Rum, Oryza Vodka & Gin, and LA1 Whiskey-the first aged whiskey made in LA since prohibition. We take pride in using local ingredients in our award winning spirits. Everything we make is Handcrafted for the Soul one batch at a time. From Cane to Cocktail and Grain to Glass. 

Facebook: dpdistillers
Twitter: @donnerpeltier
Web: www.dpdspirits.com
Sponsors
avatar for Donner-Peltier Distillers

Tuesday July 19, 2016 12:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Woldenberg Riverfront Park
  Special Events, Distillery Day

2:00pm CDT

Founder’s Tour of Atelier Vie
Feedback Survey
What:
Atelier Vie distills absinthe and gin in New Orleans. Founded by Jedd Haas, this special TOTC tour led by Jedd Haas will take you through the distillation process and a spirited tasting of Toulouse Red, Absinthe Rouge; Toulouse Green, Absinthe Verte; Euphrosine Gin #9; and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve.

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Toulouse Red, released in 2012, was the first Louisina absinthe since Prohibition. Toulouse Green, released in 2013, uses locally-grown wormwood. Euphrosine Gin #9 has won multiple gold medals in national spirits competitions, and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve is the first barrel-aged gin from Louisiana.

When:
Four tours will be available on Tuesday, July 19th; at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. Due to the small size of the distillery and the personalized attention you will receive from the founder, each tour is limited to 12 guests. There is a $10 fee to reserve your spot. Reservation payments can be made via the Paypal link below.

Buy Tickets Now

Where:
Atelier Vie is located 5 minutes from downtown by cab at 1001 S. Broad St. This is underneath the Broad St. overpass, at the intersection of Broad St. and Euphrosine St. Detailed maps and directions are available on our site at http://ateliervie.com/visit Please arrive 10 minutes in advance of the start time. We may have a guide at Hotel Monteleone who will gather all participants and help you find a shared cab to the distillery.

Special Deal!
Free Euphrosine Season t-shirt with purchase of 2 bottles or more (limit 1 per visitor, while supplies last.) Bottles of all spirits will be available for retail purchase and can be signed by Jedd Haas on request.
Sponsors
avatar for Atelier Vie

Atelier Vie

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Find recipes and share our adventures via social media and ateliervie.com.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Atelier Vie
  Special Events, Distillery Day

2:00pm CDT

Distillery Day at Cajun Spirits Distillery
Feedback Survey
Cajun Spirits Distillery invites Tales of the Cocktail® attendees to an event at our distillery, 800 yards from the Superdome. Guests will be walked through our spirit making process and invited to sample our Crescent vodka, 3rd Ward gin and Tresillo rum, as well as spirits only available at the distillery. Homemade Jambalaya and cocktails will be served until we run out.

Buy Tickets NOW 
Sponsors
avatar for Cajun Spirits Distillery

Cajun Spirits Distillery

Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, we make vodka, rum and gin from 100% Louisiana sugarcane. Locally Fermented and distilled in New Orleans. Gluten Free, no NGS or other neutral spirit.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 2:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Cajun Spirits Distillery
  Special Events, Distillery Day

3:30pm CDT

Pre-New Orleans Cocktail Tour Happy Hour
Feedback Survey
Pre-tour with Wyborowa Wódka! We’re all about a kick-off, so kick off your New Orleans Cocktail Tour of legendary history with Wybo, a genuine Polish rye vodka based on over 500 years of Polish Vodka craftsmanship.
Sponsors
avatar for Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa – Wybo for short – genuine Polish vodka, created in 1927 with over 500 years of Polish vodka craftsmanship.With quality highlighted by more than 20 international awards from around the world including Vienna, Rome, Brussels and San Francisco, the Pure Rye Grain combined... Read More →

Tuesday July 19, 2016 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

4:00pm CDT

Founder’s Tour of Atelier Vie
Feedback Survey
What:
Atelier Vie distills absinthe and gin in New Orleans. Founded by Jedd Haas, this special TOTC tour led by Jedd Haas will take you through the distillation process and a spirited tasting of Toulouse Red, Absinthe Rouge; Toulouse Green, Absinthe Verte; Euphrosine Gin #9; and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve.

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Toulouse Red, released in 2012, was the first Louisina absinthe since Prohibition. Toulouse Green, released in 2013, uses locally-grown wormwood. Euphrosine Gin #9 has won multiple gold medals in national spirits competitions, and Euphrosine Gin #9 Barrel-Finished Reserve is the first barrel-aged gin from Louisiana.

When:
Four tours will be available on Tuesday, July 19th; at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. Due to the small size of the distillery and the personalized attention you will receive from the founder, each tour is limited to 12 guests. There is a $10 fee to reserve your spot. Reservation payments can be made via the Paypal link below.

Buy Tickets Now

Where:
Atelier Vie is located 5 minutes from downtown by cab at 1001 S. Broad St. This is underneath the Broad St. overpass, at the intersection of Broad St. and Euphrosine St. Detailed maps and directions are available on our site at http://ateliervie.com/visit Please arrive 10 minutes in advance of the start time. We may have a guide at Hotel Monteleone who will gather all participants and help you find a shared cab to the distillery.

Special Deal!
Free Euphrosine Season t-shirt with purchase of 2 bottles or more (limit 1 per visitor, while supplies last.) Bottles of all spirits will be available for retail purchase and can be signed by Jedd Haas on request.
Sponsors
avatar for Atelier Vie

Atelier Vie

Inspired by our renowned culinary culture, we create flavorful new spirits in one of the greatest drinking cities of the world. Find recipes and share our adventures via social media and ateliervie.com.

Tuesday July 19, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Atelier Vie
  Special Events, Distillery Day

4:00pm CDT

New Orleans Cocktail Tour
Feedback Survey
There’s a reason Tales of the Cocktail® calls New Orleans home—the city’s legendary bars and bartenders helped shaped how Americans drink. Join us as we explore the rich cocktail history of our city with a spirited romp through the French Quarter led by legendary tour guide, Joe Gendusa. We’ll start in Le Booze bar of the Royal Sonesta then head out as Joe shares tall tales of the famous bars, restaurants, people and cocktails that made New Orleans such a famous place to have a drink.

*First cocktail at Le Booze included. Cocktails available for purchase at bar stops.
Speakers
JG

Joe Gendusa

Gendusa is a New Orleans native and a respected teacher for 38 years. After his retirement, he joined forces with Tales of the Cocktail® founder, Ann Tuennerman, to start what is known today as New Orleans Original Cocktail Tour. Gendusa has also written a book entitled History With... Read More →

Tuesday July 19, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

5:00pm CDT

Porchjam Distillation TOTC Session Dinner
Feedback Survey
What: 

Join Louisiana’s newest and largest distillery, Porchjam Distillation, for an intimate dinner featuring the cuisine of James Beard Award-winning Chef Donald Link, and music session.

Founder Gordon Stewart and head distiller Andrea Clodfelter will discuss Porchjam’s grain-to-glass philosophy, distilling process and design and announce the upcoming vodka and whiskey portfolio. 

Be the first to beta our digital app Bootleg.FM while you listen to local music.

Bring your guitar.

When:

An intimate dinner with head distiller Andrea Clodfelter, founder Gordon Stewart and special guests and will be held on on Tuesday, July 19th at 5pm.

The dinner is limited to 20 guests and costs $35.

Reservation and payments can be made by emailingTOTC@porch-jam.com

Where:  

Calcasieu, 930 Tchoupitoulas St.

Experience James Beard Award-winning Chef Donald Link's cuisine at Calcasieu in the Historic Warehouse District. Conveniently located just two blocks from the Convention Center.
Sponsors
PD

Tuesday July 19, 2016 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
Calcasieu
  Special Events, Distillery Day
 
Wednesday, July 20
 

10:00am CDT

#IfYouBuildItTheyWillCome #BarsGetSocial
Feedback Survey
“If you build it, they will come”
This is not quite what Kevin Costner heard in Field of Dreams, but it may ring true to bar owners. Physical building is just the start; brand and business building is crucial. Hence the need for social media: a key driver for building a bar's business, every bit as important for a bar as branding, or your team, or menu development, and linked to all those.

Three class-leading exponents of social media (two owners of great bars from London and New York and one craft spirits specialist) will make sure you improve your bar’s social media performance.

Our panelists will give in-depth details of building their businesses through very different social media approaches. We will review the social media activity of other top bars and look at how bars and drink brands can work together on social media.

In addition we will help bar owners (via a private Facebook group discussing best practices) from the time you buy your seminar ticket, through to the seminar in July and beyond. Up to 10 early ticket purchasers will get statistics to help monitor their improvement as well as more detailed one-on-one coaching before the seminar.

In summary this will provide a very practical demonstration as to how bars can improve their social media – and their business - with a variety of skills. Skills practiced by attendees before the seminar. Attending this seminar will be unique, providing tools beforehand, expanded seminar content, and connecting attendees with like-minded experts and professionals to provide ongoing learning afterwards.
Moderators
avatar for Alan Moss

Alan Moss

Co-owner, Artemisia Distribution SARL
Alan Moss led sales and marketing initiatives for Remy-Cointreau's operations in the UK, India and South-East Asia (the last of these with Remy's joint venture with Absolut, Jim Beam and Edrington). Returning to Europe, he managed a long-term consultancy role for Campari International... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Arun Mirchandani

Arun Mirchandani

Arun’s hospitality career includes building bar businesses for the Sheraton, Hyatt and Intercontinental groups in India, Director of Operations for the New York Hospitality Group in the USA (in which role he opened bars in the Czech Republic), Beverage Director at the New York Helmsley... Read More →
avatar for Edmund Weil

Edmund Weil

Managing Director, Speakeasy Entertainment
After stints in communications and education, Edmund came to the world of hospitality via the Soho House group. In 2010 Edmund and his wife Rosie realised a long-standing dream by opening iconic speakeasy Nightjar, and 5 years later unveiled his second venture, Oriole in London’s... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

10:00am CDT

Amaro per Amore: Rare & Modern Amaro
Feedback Survey
Not all things bitter leave a bad taste in your mouth and this exactly the case with the history of Italian Amari. Somehow lost in translation, Amaro 'means' Bitter and for to long it has been out of focus for professionals but finally the category is facing a new golden age amongst bartenders and cocktail connoisseur. Share a unique tasting with italian spirits experts, Giuseppe Gallo and Francesco Lafranconi, and discovery how these elixirs went from apothecary medicinal to the best bar in the world and how did influence the cocktail culture globally. The tasting will cover the entire italian peninsula from Sicily to Milan with a variety of Amaro, herbs and spices to please your palate with a dash of bitter love..SALUTE!
Moderators
avatar for Giuseppe Gallo

Giuseppe Gallo

Founder & Director, ITALSPIRITS
The italian spirits expert Giuseppe Gallo is one of the world’s most respected mixologists, with an inherent passion for the drinks business and an inimitable source of knowledge and insight into the world of drinks. He has worked in almost every type of drinks and hospitality business... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Francesco Lafranconi

Francesco Lafranconi

Executive Director of Mixology and Spirits Educator, Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada
One of the world’s foremost mixologist, Francesco Lafranconi is the Executive Director of Mixology and Spirits Educator for Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada. Francesco’s personal appeal has made him a hit with his A-list celebrity clientele, world-class corporate clients... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Amaro Lucano 1894

Amaro Lucano 1894

Quality. Knowledge. Tradition. Ideas. These are the values that, for more than one hundred years, have made Amaro Lucano one of the most important reality in the spirit market. A story of passion, and authenticity, contained in Cavalier Pasquale Vena’s secret recipe.
avatar for Amaro Montenegro

Amaro Montenegro

More than 130 years in the making, Amaro Montenegro is shaking up the bar scene one drink at a time. With its rich legacy and intriguing taste, it’s the name on the lips of the most inspired Mixologists and the liquid on the lips of every cocktails lover in the know.
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Averna

Averna

Averna is a traditional Italian after-dinner liqueur, known as amaro or digestivo (bitter or digestif). Averna's many ingredients give it richness, a full body and smooth taste with a delicate citrus fragrance that transports drinkers to the warm lands of Sicily.
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Cinzano 1757

Cinzano 1757

Cinzano 1757 is a high-end, small batch, handcrafted Vermouth gently infused with the finest mature blend of aromas. It's made up of an infusion of fortified wine with aromatic hers and spices extracts, giving the liquid a deep, complex flavor with a pleasant bittersweet profile that... Read More →
avatar for Cynar 70

Cynar 70

Cynar 70 is a distinctive, natural Italian artichoke-based, bittersweet liqueur/cordial that can be enjoyed chilled, on the rocks or as a shot with a high-proof kick.
avatar for Distilleria Varnelli

Distilleria Varnelli

Distilleria Varnelli has been producing spirits since 1868 in the Marche region of Italy, in a pleasant inland area on the slopes of Monti Sibillini. The business started by the founder Girolamo Varnelli, a keen herbalist who applied his knowledge and skills to create an elixir with... Read More →
avatar for Ditta Bortolo Nardini

Ditta Bortolo Nardini

The first Italian distillery. A family passion since 1779.Located in Bassano del Grappa, a medieval town near Venice, Nardini is the market leader in the production of premium grappa.The historic enterprise has successfully united their centuries-old traditions with the most advanced techniques... Read More →
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Fernet Vittone

Fernet Vittone

In Milan, in 1842 Domenico Vittone invents Fernet a bitter obtained by the infusion of more than 40 selected herbs, including myrrh, rhubarb, chamomile, cardamom, aloe, and saffron, the most "Milanese" of all spices. Since then, at Vittone 1842 we produce Fernet according to the... Read More →
avatar for Turin Vermouth

Turin Vermouth

Originating in Piedmont, a land of great wines and great tradtiions in distillery. Our passion stems from our own land and its fruits. It is trhough our constant dedication in the pursuit of the highest quality ingredients and the revision of oldrecipes that we are recognized as innovators... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

10:00am CDT

How To Start A Brand Without A Distillery
Feedback Survey
If you've ever considered starting your own brand (who hasn't?), but don't have the budget to build your own distillery (who does?), this panel is for you. Industry experts will outline the long history of contract bottling; where to get your booze; how to navigate the legal issues; how to manage the distribution; and how to market your new brand. You truly can't afford to miss this seminar.
Moderators
avatar for Ryan Malkin

Ryan Malkin

Attorney, Malkin Law
Ryan Malkin is an attorney serving the alcohol beverage industry. Ryan is well versed in navigating the federal and state-by-state alcohol beverage laws, assisting clients large and small with industry specific agreements and crafting compliant marketing and sales programs. Prior... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Malte Barnekow

Malte Barnekow

Co-founder and CEO, The 86 Company
Malte is acting CEO of The 86 Company, which he founded back in 2010 together with industry peers Jason Kosmas, Dushan Zaric and Simon Ford after graduating with an MBA from top business school INSEAD in Paris, France. Previously, he spent 8 years with Absolut Vodka, where he first... Read More →
avatar for Harry Kohlmann

Harry Kohlmann

CEO, Park Street
Dr. Harry Kohlmann is the CEO of Park Street, a provider of productivity-enhancing and cost-saving back-office solutions, advisory services, and working capital to more than 3,000 alcoholic beverage brands from the U.S. and around the world. The company’s clients range from entrepreneurs... Read More →
avatar for Noah Rothbaum

Noah Rothbaum

Chief Cocktail Correspondent, The Daily Beast
Noah Rothbaum is The Daily Beast's Chief Cocktail Correspondent. He is also the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels (Ten Speed Press), which was published in the spring of 2015, and the associate... Read More →
avatar for Barry Younkie

Barry Younkie

Sales Manager, MGP Ingredients, Inc.
Bulk alcohol providers to liquor companies.

Sponsors
avatar for Caña Brava Rum
avatar for MGP Ingredients

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Drinks Business

10:00am CDT

Pumping out Paradise: Secrets Behind a High Volume Tiki Bar
Feedback Survey
Learn the secrets of serving out mass quantities of multi-ingredient garnish-heavy drinks, from the development of the drink program to setting up the bar, and digging into the mind of a high volume Tiki bartender.
Moderators
avatar for Shelby Allison

Shelby Allison

partner, Lost Lake
Shelby Allison opened Lost Lake with her partner Paul McGee, Land and Sea Dept., and Martin Cate of Smuggler’s Cove in January of 2015. Since then, Lost Lake has been named Imbibe magazine’s Cocktail Bar of the Year, earned a semifinalist James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for ErinHayes

ErinHayes

Bar Manager, Lost Lake
Native Chicagoan Erin Hayes has worked in the hospitality industry since her very first job making milkshakes and lattes at Grumpy’s Cafe. As soon as she turned 21, she graduated to bartending — though it wasn't until Erin began work for the Boka Group at Lincoln Park restaurant... Read More →
avatar for Mindy Kucan

Mindy Kucan

Lead Bartender, Hale Pele
Mindy has been an avid cocktail maker since 2009. While living in Austin, Texas and working for Hilton Hotels, Mindy started working at Anvil Bar and Refuge in Houston for one day a week to learn the proper techniques in tending bar and making drinks, and was awarded the title of... Read More →
avatar for Paul McGee

Paul McGee

partner, Lost Lake
Paul McGee has been a bartender for over 25 years, and since moving to Chicago in 2008, has been named Chicago’s Best Bartender (2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015), Chicago Tribune’s Beverage Professional of the Year (2013), Jean Banchet Best Mixologist (2014), and one of Chicago magazine's... Read More →
avatar for Scotty Schuder

Scotty Schuder

Scotty Schuder, the man behind Dirty Dick tiki bar in Paris, was born in the Mojave Desert and first came to Paris in 1998 to witness Les Bleus’ victory over Brazil at the World Cup. Most recently, Scotty worked on the team that created the forthcoming Plantation Old Fashioned... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for House of Angostura

House of Angostura

The House of Angostura®
Capitalizing on its heritage as the world's most well-known maker of aromatic bitters, the House of Angostura® has catapulted into the 21st century with an exquisite range of rums, the magnificent Amaro di Angostura® and of course, ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters and ANGOSTURA® orange... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

10:00am CDT

When Is A Rum Not a Rum? The Big Rum Debate
Feedback Survey
The Rum category is most diverse spirits category in the world, and with EVERY rum producing country claiming that their rum is authentic what the hell is a REAL RUM? Global rum category ambassador Ian Burrell invites you to join into what will be a heated debate on rum rules, new definitions, rum shenanigans and the future of rum. If you're a RUM lover this debate is not to be missed.
Moderators
avatar for Ian Burrell

Ian Burrell

Host, The Rum Experience Co ltd
One of the most travelled figures within the drinks industry, the award winning “EduTainer”, has redefined the definition of an international spirits ambassador. An ex professional basketball player in the UK and international recording artist, he has now established himself as... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Alexandre Gabriel

Alexandre Gabriel

President and Owner, Maison Ferrand
Alexandre Gabriel was born and raised in France, on a farm in southern Burgundy near the medieval town of Cluny, where his grandfather taught him how to make wine and distill spirits. Twenty-five years ago Alexandre Gabriel came upon an ancient Cognac house and built it into what... Read More →
avatar for Ben Jones

Ben Jones

Director North America, House of Agricole
avatar for Richard Seale

Richard Seale

Master Distiller, Foursquare Rum Distillery
Richard Seale was born to make rum. He is the great grandson of the original R.L. Seale, Reginald Leon Seale who founded the company in 1926, making him the fourth generation to work in the family rum business. Richard serves as Master Distiller and ambassador for all the Rums... Read More →
avatar for Roberto Serralles

Roberto Serralles

VP & Commercial Director, Destileria Serralles
Destileria Serralles is the birthplace of Puerto Rican Rum. Our house style emphasizes multiple-column, clean distillation, barrel aging, masterful blending and honesty.

Sponsors
avatar for Don Q Cristal Rum
avatar for Rhum Clément

Rhum Clément

Since 1887, the development of the prestigious Rhum Clement is in the purest tradition and inherited according to the rules of Homer and Charles Clement.

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:30am CDT

Aqua Vitae:Water, Water (not) Everywhere
Feedback Survey
Low proof or high, it’s in every spirit. Shaken or stirred, it’s in every cocktail. We serve it to our customers when they arrive, and we clean their glasses with it when they leave. We take it for granted, but it’s integral to our industry and every other one for that matter. H20, Water, Agua! The colorless, flavorless ingredient no one ever talks about but can’t mix (or live) without. It’s the cheapest ingredient on your rack, and the cocktail bars of the future might not have any…... With the rapid increase of beverage programs throughout the country (and world) and the scarce water resources, are we on the verge of a potential shortage of our cocktail's most important component? Alarming actions were taken this year in bars throughout California during the year long drought including state penalties for water service and waste. And yet, this same scenario has and could easily happen in your hometown. How do we manage the growing demand for beverages while attempting to safeguard our planet's most precious element? Come engage in a thought provoking conversation and learn the facts with some of the country's leading experts on this topic: Chad Arnholt (Co-Founder of Tin Roof Drink Community: Beverage Consultants specializing in education and sustainable bar design), Eliot Sherman (EPA Environmental Scientist - Office of Water), and Pamela Wiznitzer (Creative Director, Seamstress). It's time to learn what happens to all that liquid once it's dumped down the drain. We can enact water efficiency initiatives in our venues and bring this subject afloat.
Moderators
avatar for Pamela Wiznitzer

Pamela Wiznitzer

Creative Director, Seamstress
Pamela Wiznitzer has a true passion and zest for the industry that is seen and tasted in every drink she serves and also transcends the bar. Since 2006, Pamela has been working throughout NYC, and most recently as the Creative Director and bartender at Seamstress on the Upper Eastside... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Chad Arnholt

Chad Arnholt

Co-Founder, Tin Roof Drink
CHAD ARNHOLT is a founder and partner in Tin Roof Drink Community and co-director of Bars for Ken Friedman and April Bloomfield. CHAD got his start in the vibrant Boston cocktail scene. His experience ranges from fine dining to clubs, and from dives to cocktail bars. Palmares... Read More →
avatar for Eliot Sherman

Eliot Sherman

Eliot Sherman is an environmental scientist and water management specialist by day and bar fly by night. His personal and professional passions dovetailed when he became acutely aware of the lacking environmental responsibility throughout the food and beverage industry. Eliot... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Topo Chico

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

10:30am CDT

Going Back To Your Roots To Find Success
Feedback Survey
The path to success is paved with interesting choices, passion, determination and knowledge but how can these be applied to broadening personal growth and securing a strong future in the industry and beyond? Many people find themselves in the bar industry as explorers from other professions looking for more excitement, ready cash and more often than not, fun. The tendency, once they have caught the bug of bartending, is to deny the past and focus on learning a new truth. Old text books and experiences are consigned to the high shelf and are replaced with recipes, distillation temperatures, obscure bar tools, techniques and service mantras. Little do most know that the road to sustainable success in the industry is often signposted more clearly by their initial calling than by their new vocation. By the same token bar owners often see themselves as architects of a vision - benign dictators who can do it all. They often overlook the dormant skills and talents that their staff bring to the table which could help their business reach new heights. In this seminar we will draw on the experiences and lessons from three of the best known bartender turned business people in the industry to find out how they have navigated their path to a diverse and opportunity filled portfolio of activity. Multi award winning Jim Meehan counts amongst his credits, journalism, furniture design, brand development, and bar ownership all as developments to his start in the industry as a door guy turned bartender in Madison Wisconsin. Ryan Chetiyawardana counts fashion, biology, philosophy, product design and art as influences that have taken him from Bartending to becoming his own multi-faceted, brand. Both have one thing in common, a varied and broad background and skill set which has allowed them to spot opportunities that others may have overlooked or not had the ability to see. Most beyond-the-bar seminars focus on how individuals can sustain their career based on the knowledge and skills they acquire working behind the bar. This seminar draws on their alter ego and encourages bar owners to see past the skills and knowledge to get the job done to see the dormant talents lurking in their staff which can transform their business
Moderators
avatar for Ian McLaren

Ian McLaren

Director Trade Advocacy & Training, Bacardi USA
A proud Scotsman, Ian started his career in the alcohol business straight from school working for an independent wine merchant in his home town of Edinburgh. From here his formative years in the On Premise were spent in the late night scene working in more sticky floored nightclubs... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Bartender, Owner, Dandelyan and Cub
Cocktail bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana goes by Mr Lyan, which is arguably easier to say. He opened his first bar, White Lyan, in London in 2013 as the first cocktail bar in the world to use no perishables; no fruit and even no ice. It was an exploration in sustainability, with much... Read More →
avatar for Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan, author of the The PDT Cocktail Book, entered the hospitality business in 1995 while studying at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He worked his way through school as a bartender, then moved to New York City in 2002 to hone his palate and develop his craft in venues... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Wednesday July 20, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

12:15pm CDT

Crafted Conversation
Feedback Survey
Jordan Bushell, Hennessy’s National Ambassador will moderate a diverse panel of the industries top minds, Charles Hardwick, Don Lee, Maria Pribble and Lauren Mote. The conversation will revolve around the current state of the bar industry.  The industry is in a malaise of sorts with regards to inclusion of diverse backgrounds.  This represents a lost opportunity for all involved, bars, brands and consumers.

This solution oriented talk will address the past, where these paradigms started in our industry.  The present day look at the problems and how they developed along with the needs for the future and what we all can do to help solve the complicated issues we all face.

Moderator: Jordan Bushell

Speakers:


  • Charles Hardwick

  • Don Lee

  • Maria Pribble

  • Lauren Mote

Speakers
avatar for Don Lee

Don Lee

designer • technologist • philosopher • educator, cocktailkingdom.com
Don Lee is a Southern California expatriate now residing in NewYork City. He left his respectable career in IT to pursue his passion for food and cocktails. He opened PDT (Please Don’t tell) as the Beverage Director in 2007 and started the hard spirits program for Momofuku. Don... Read More →

Personalities
CH
avatar for Jordan Bushell

Jordan Bushell

Head of Mixology and Brand Education, Hennessy
In his constant pursuit for the perfect cocktail, Jordan Bushell joined the Hennessy team in 2010 as the US Ambassador of Mixology and Brand Education. Travelling all around the globe to discover new flavors and techniques, he brings his knowledge, experience and passion when crafting... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Mote

Lauren Mote

Co-Proprietor, Bittered Sling Bitters
Mixologist. Sommelier. Architect of potions, tonics and elixirs. Accomplished emcee, writer and cocktail judge. International spirits diplomat. Award-winning bar personality Lauren Mote wears many hats, but she’s perhaps best known as the co-proprietor of Bittered Sling— a... Read More →
avatar for Maria Pribble

Maria Pribble

Independent Consultant
Maria Pribble has over 20 years experience in the wine and spirits industry and has worked for many major spirits suppliers in her career. She has helped to build mass and small brands across numerous categories and and has also led the innovation of new to market brands. She is... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Hennessy

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Restaurant R'evolution
  Special Events

12:30pm CDT

From Bartender to Bar Partner
Feedback Survey
Bartenders are rising in the cocktail industry, not only creatively, but as partners in their bars and they are reaping the rewards of ownership. What does it take to find a partnership that works? How can bartenders find backers that see them as true partners, not just talent? In this seminar, we will meet three bartenders who are now partners and co-owners of their operations. They include Jim Kearns, who partnered to create Slowly Shirley, The Happiest Hour and Tijuana Picnic, Meaghan Dorman, who is a partner at The Bennett, Dear Irving and Raines Law Room with Alberto Benenati and Yves Jadot, as well as Lucinda Sterling, who is a partner at Middle Branch and Seaborne with the late Sasha Petraske. They will discuss how they found their business partners, how their relationships evolved and blossomed over the years, the challenges they had to overcome and how they balance their passion for bartending with operational responsibilities.
Moderators
avatar for Michael Anstendig

Michael Anstendig

Partner, Hanna Lee Communications
Michael Anstendig is a communications maven specialized in the best things in life: spirits, cocktails, food and hospitality, with extensive experience as a freelance writer and public relations professional. Michael’s writing has appeared in the New York Times, The New York... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Meghan Dorman

Meghan Dorman

Bar DIrector, Dear Irving Raines Law Room The Bennett
Meaghan Dorman is currently the Bar Director of New York City’s Raines Law Room (2 locations) Dear Irving and the Bennett. She has worked with partners Yves Jadot & Alberto Benanati since its Raines Law Room 2009 opening. In June 2014, she and the RLR team opened Dear Irving, a... Read More →
avatar for Jim Kearns

Jim Kearns

Head Bartender and Partner, The Happiest Hour
Jim Kearns is head bartender and partner at The Happiest Hour, a new bi-level drinking and dining destination in New York’s Greenwich Village that salutes America’s sexiest decades. He is responsible for developing and executing a beverage program at the highest level and ensuring... Read More →
avatar for Lucinda Sterling

Lucinda Sterling

Owner/Bartender, MIddle Branch
Lucinda Sterling began her journey into bartending by packing up her SUV in Denver and embarking on a cross-country road trip to the East Coast. A New York City pit stop became a permanent residence, and more than ten years later, Lucinda still calls Manhattan home. With no bartending... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Domaine de Canton

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Bartending Career

12:30pm CDT

Grasping for Air
Feedback Survey
Atmospheric air is primarily made up of nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Air is one of the most accessible yet elusive ingredients in the bartenders' arsenal. We are constantly trying to preserve precious vermouths and other highly perishable items by shielding the from as much air exposure as possible. At the same time we implement force carbonation and shaking techniques as we seek to achieve that sweet spot of aeration and dilution in cocktails. Should we consider air a friend or a foe? In this seminar join cocktail maven, Jaymee Mandeville as she sheds light on the methods practiced by bartenders around the world and through time. Panelists with diverse backgrounds weight in on topics like the science of oxidation and application of NO2 vs CO2. To shake, throw, stir...is there a difference...or are we just putting on airs?
Moderators
avatar for Jaymee Mandeville

Jaymee Mandeville

Senior Portfolio Ambassador - Bacardi USA West, Team Enterprises
This West Coast native started off behind Hollywood's starlit nightclubs slinging at a high volume pace. As with many Angelenos, Jaymee had quite a few career aspirations and worked for well known motion picture studios, talent agencies and as a fashion stylist for top magazines... Read More →

Speakers
DE

Daniel Eun

The Normandie Club
avatar for Erik Lorincz

Erik Lorincz

Head Bartender, American bar, The Savoy
Erik started his career graduating from the Hospitality School in his native Slovakia in 1999. Shortly afterwards he came across the first bartending book by Roman Uhlir. This inspired Erik greatly and he decided to take up the opportunity to learn about bartending. He joined a... Read More →
avatar for Shelley Menze

Shelley Menze

Sr. Beverage Scientist, Bacardi

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

12:30pm CDT

Lock, Stock and Six Smoking Barrels
Feedback Survey
Wood finishes have become a popular way to add another dimension of flavour to whisky, but just how much do you know about the process? It’s not as simple as you’d think. Join Becky Paskin, editor of Scotchwhisky.com, Balvenie’s Jonathan Wingo, Angel’s Envy’s Wes Henderson and Teeling Whiskey Company’s Kevin Hurley for an exploration of extraordinary whisky cask finishes from Scotland, Ireland and the USA. You’ll be given the opportunity to sample six fascinating whiskies finished in various casks from within the panel’s own warehouses, including some that are unavailable in the United States. Discover how finishing has become a standard practice in Scotland and even influenced innovation in the USA, as well as the science behind precisely how different casks and their previous contents affect a whisky’s flavour. Find out which barrels are the finest for finishing, and which ones distillers avoid; which casks bring out the best of Scotch but the worst in Bourbon; and the legal reasons why Irish whiskey can use casks the Scots can’t. Prepare to geek out with wood in a way you’ve never done before!
Moderators
avatar for Becky Paskin

Becky Paskin

Editor, Scotchwhisky.com
Becky Paskin is Editor of exciting new digital magazine Scotchwhisky.com, the world’s most authoritative online guide to Scotch whisky. Established in October 2015 with seasoned booze writers Dave Broom and Richard Woodard also at the helm, the website has been warmly welcomed by... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Wes Henderson

Wes Henderson

Co-Founder/Chief Innovation Officer, Louisville Distilling Company and Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Mr. Henderson presides over every aspect of the company’s production, operations, and innovation. Before the opportunity to partner with his father to create Angel’s Envy, he served as president and COO of Master Distiller Select, providing consultancy services to craft distillers... Read More →
avatar for Kevin Hurley

Kevin Hurley

Global Brand Ambassador, Teeling Whiskey Company
As Global Brand Ambassador for Teeling Whiskey Company, Kevin is responsible for the overall promotion of the brand through education of the Teeling portfolio of multi award-winning Irish Whiskeys. As a veteran of the drinks industry in Ireland for over 15 years, Kevin brings... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Wingo

Jonathan Wingo

The Balvenie Ambassador, William Grant and Sons
Whisky-huggin, Scotch-talkin Texan. Looking after the Balvenie throughout the heart of the USA.

Sponsors
avatar for Angel's Envy
S
WG

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

12:30pm CDT

Nutmeg: The Seed That Spiced 1000 Sips
Feedback Survey
As long as there have been cocktails, nutmeg has been making them smell better. This seminar studies the wondrous weapon of mass aromatization enjoying a second wind in mixology. It is one of the earliest drink ingredients, pre-dating the American cocktail with its application in English punch. Nutmeg then made the transatlantic journey to be included in Sangarees and Flips, folded into Tom & Jerrys, and eventually grated atop modern Tiki cocktails. What most regard as shriveled seeds primarily used by bakers, nutmeg has a fantastic and world altering history. Come and learn the history and applications of nutmeg and why it has remained a key, but often overlooked, ingredient in cocktails. Discover the biology of nutmeg, why this seed spawned a spice war that would build and crumble empires, the medicinal and culinary uses for nutmeg in different cultures, and hear from Jack McGarry, Peter Vestinos and Charlotte Voisey on modern sources and suppliers of nutmeg, proper storage, and application on the bar-top. Said to cure incurable diseases like the plague and dysentery, claimed to preserve meats better than salt and valued for increasing the male libido, nutmeg was once worth well beyond its weight in gold. Taste three cocktails designed to demonstrate the aroma and flavor powers that nutmeg brings to a drink and take away instantly useful information as well as a gift from our sponsor, the spirits portfolio of William Grant & Sons.
Moderators
avatar for Charlotte Voisey

Charlotte Voisey

Global Head of Brand Ambassador Advocacy , Emcee, William Grant & Sons
Charlotte Voisey is an award-winning mixologist with cocktail recipes published and placedon menus across the world including New York’s famed PDT, the iconic Dorchester Hotel inLondon and Whitechapel in San Francisco.Charlotte’s passion for all things spirits and cocktails keeps... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jack McGarry

Jack McGarry

Co-Founder, The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog
Jack McGarry is The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog’s co-founder and operating partner, who also created its extensive historically-based drinks program. In July 2013, he was honored with the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail International Bartender of the Year award. He is its youngest... Read More →
avatar for Peter Vestinos

Peter Vestinos

Owner / Beverage Director, The BarMedic / The Betty
Peter Vestinos currently serves at the President of the Chicago USBG and Beverage Manger at The Betty in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. With over 14 years of experience in the bar and restaurant industry, Vestinos has worked at all levels of the business including behind the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

12:30pm CDT

Shochu, Japan's Native Spirit
Feedback Survey
Always wanted to learn more about Shochu? Thought so. Shochu is an incredibly diverse spirit with many unique processes, more than 500 years of history and produced mostly by family run distilleries. It has a huge range of styles and flavor profiles, which makes it hard to categorize by Western standards. Come and learn more about what makes Shochu unique in the spirits world and why and how you should be drinking it. Brian Matthys, a bartender in New York and passionate Shochu advocate will lead a seminar featuring Mas Takeda, an importer with Wine of Japan who can talk to Shochu's history and popularity in Japan and its slightly less lengthy history and popularity here in the U.S. Jesse Falowitz is an American brand owner of Mizu Shochu, produced in Arita Japan who has seen Shochu begin to work its way into leading cocktail bars. Toshio Ueno works for Mutual Trading Company and is a leading educator on Shochu and Sake with the Sake School of America will talk about the unique processes which go into making Shochu and how they create such diverse spirits. You will taste examples from every major Shochu category and cocktails featuring Shochu in a unique way.
Moderators
BM

Brian Matthys

Brian Matthys is a bartender and consultant in NYC, currently at La Chine and The Gander. He was previously the head bartender at Le Bernardin for two and a half years and before that at Compose in Tribeca where he worked with a range of quality spirits, sake, beer and wine.  He... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jesse Falowitz

Jesse Falowitz

Cofounder, MIZU SHOCHU 美鶴乃舞
Jesse Falowitz is a certified Shochu Advisor and Cofounder of Mizu Shochu 美鶴乃舞, a double-gold and gold medal winning craft shochu produced by the Munemasa Shuzo Co. of Arita, Japan. Falowitz spent 10 years in Asia, eventually leaving his career as a brand strategist to pursue... Read More →
avatar for Masahiro Takeda

Masahiro Takeda

Vice President, Wine of Japan Import, Inc.
Masahiro Takeda, Esq. is the Vice President of Wine of Japan Import, Inc., a leading national importer and distributor of Japanese beverage alcohol for the last 40+ years. In this role, he curates a comprehensive portfolio of around 250 brands of Japanese beer, sake, and shochu... Read More →
avatar for Toshio Ueno

Toshio Ueno

VP, SAKE SCHOOL OF AMERICA
Certified Master Sake & Shochu Sommelier. Toshio is only one in the world who holds three prestigious Sake titles, Master of Sake, Master Sake Sommelier and WSET Sake Educator. Born in Japan where his family has grown Japanese wine grape, Koshu, for generations, Toshio grew up helping... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Mizu Shochu

Mizu Shochu

Handcrafted in the traditional way, Mizu Shochu is single distilled from two-rowed barley, black koji rice, and the pure, famous waters of Black Hair Mountain. At 70 proof it is more concentrated, like shochus of old, to enhance the subtle complexities, body and finish. It is also... Read More →
avatar for Mutual Trading Co., Inc.

Mutual Trading Co., Inc.

MUTUAL TRADING COMPANY INC. is the premier Japanese food, alcohol beverage, and restaurant supply specialist. We are the Japanese food authority – true to the heart in upholding genuine Japanese cuisine traditions, and progressive in exploring new ways to provide innovative products... Read More →
avatar for Sake School of America

Sake School of America

SAKE SCHOOL OF AMERICA is an education and training center specializing in Sake, Shochu, and Japanese liquors, for Sake professionals and enthusiasts to expand their knowledge and to explore further enjoyment of the category.SAKE SCHOOL OF AMERICA aims toward fostering higher appreciation... Read More →
avatar for Wine of Japan Import, Inc.

Wine of Japan Import, Inc.

Founded in 1973, Wine of Japan Import, Inc. (WOJ) is a leading national importer and distributor of Japanese beverage alcohol for over 40 years.  WOJ's national portfolio consists of 250 brands of beer, sake and shochu, distributed through a network covering 30 states.  A family-operated... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

1:00pm CDT

BIG GIN Small Gin: The Producers Talk
Feedback Survey
Never have the assortment of tasty pleasures within the world's most exotic spirit been in such a phase of epic discovery, wild proportions and of cult-like following! With all this excitement, methodology and technology, many questions have arisen to hot debate. Does size really matter? Is a big still better than a small one? How many people does it take to run a small versus large operation and what are the differences in stills and processes used? How does a large operation/process compare to a smaller one? Is "craft" a guy with a beard and a leather apron, or a $2m investment in a quality-control system? How do individually distilled and blended botanical distillates compare to those steeped, or vapor infused in single recipes, or those blended in various forms and stages? Is one botanical better than 50? Why use fewer or more? Let's find out. What are the most important botanicals in gins and what supporting roles do they play in a closed system? How much do we really understand about this complex scientific process? Where do distillers source their GNS and what types of grain bases provide the best canvas to suit the different variations of botanical flavors and expressions? Why do established brands opt for innovation and seasonal offerings? And what of all these experimental gins? Did they start out with a flavor profile or a drink strategy in mind to fulfill and work backwards from there? What's better, contract distilling or your own distillery? Or a bit of both? This is definitely going to be revealing and a not to miss discussion. Join industry icons Nik Fordham (Master distiller, Bombay gins), Allen Katz (distiller, Perry's Tot and Dorothy Parker gins), Jake Burger (brand owner, Portobello Road gin), Gary Hayward, Mike Enright and your host Raj Nagra, as we taste and experience their fine gins whilst hearing opinions on the current affairs of the gin category and the boundaries of new gins and contemporary classic styles.
Moderators
avatar for Raj Nagra

Raj Nagra

House of Bombay Global Ambassador, Bacardi Global Brands
The always vibrant and charismatic industry personality and Global Bombay Sapphire Brand Ambassador Raj Nagra brings over two decades of unique industry knowledge from both a business and trade perspective to his role at Bacardi Global Brands. Now in his 14th year as an Ambassador... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jake Burger

Jake Burger

Director, Portobello Road Gin / The Ginstitute
Having bartended for 20 plus years, in 2011 Jake stepped out from behind the bar and became part of the team that opened The Ginstitute and launched Portobello Road Gin. Since opening The Ginstitute has educated over 15 000 people on the history and science of gin and is consistently... Read More →
avatar for Mike Enright

Mike Enright

Owner, The Barber Shop, Australia
Mike Enright Originally from the UK Mike Enright or sometimes known as Mikey has over twenty five years experience in the hospitality industry. Mikey started his career in traditional ale and managing pubs in England. He was later trained in London as a Cocktail Bartender and moved... Read More →
avatar for Allen Katz

Allen Katz

Co-Founder, New York Distilling Company
Allen Katz is the co-founder of the New York Distilling Company in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he produces Dorothy Parker – American Gin, Perry’s Tot – Navy-Strength Gin, Chief Gowanus – New-Netherland Gin, Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye…and Ragtime Rye. He is also the Director... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Wednesday July 20, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

1:00pm CDT

Integrating Craft Beer into your Cocktail Program
Feedback Survey
What beers should be on your menu? How do you appeal to beer geeks and regular guests alike? Which beers do you need for mixology? How do we offer boilermaker combinations that aren't just hipster irony-bingo? What are the logistics of a beer program, anyway? Drinks menus in 2016 have to offer guest appeal, be media-friendly and deliver bottom-line profits, and the answer is BEER! (Well, craft beer, anyway).  Cocktailian consumers are increasingly beer-savvy, and craft beer offers the quality your guests love, profitability to rival your liquor & cocktail program and a  far, far faster speed of service. Join Elayne Duff, AB-InBev's craft beer division Global Event Manager (and former James Beard-nominated mixologist) as she moderates a discussion of best practices from Jackson Cannon (Boston's Eastern Standard and Island Creek Oyster Bar), Michael Shain (New York's Porchlight, a Danny Meyer cocktail bar) and Rich Higgins (master cicerone, brewmaster, beer consultant and certified sommelier). Craft beer is the new craft liquor!
Moderators
avatar for Elayne Duff

Elayne Duff

Global Event Manager- Craft Beer, Ab-Inbev
Jet-set mixologist turned craft-beer Event Manager for AB-InBev, the world's largest beer company; Elayne Duff's love of the drinks business has taken a new turn, from shaking and stirring to hops and cask. A native New Yorker, some of Elayne's first jobs after graduating college... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jackson Cannon

Jackson Cannon

Owner/Bartender, The Hawthorne
Jackson Cannon Bar Director, Eastern Standard and Island Creek Oyster Bar Owner/Bartender, The Hawthorne Jackson Cannon has always lived to exacting standards. Son and brother of renowned award- winning journalists Lou and Carl Cannon, Jackson grew up immersed in a world of travel... Read More →
avatar for Rich Higgins

Rich Higgins

President, Rich Higgins Consultant a la Biere
Rich Higgins is all things beer: brewmaster, beer educator, trainer, public speaker, and a consultant to breweries and restaurants. He is one of 11 Master Cicerones in the world, and additionally is a Certified Sommelier. He has curated beer programs at a dozen San Francisco restaurants... Read More →
avatar for Michael Shain

Michael Shain

General Manager, Porchlight
Michael Shain is General Manager of Porchlight, the first stand-alone cocktail bar by Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG). Porchlight, a New York bar with a Southern accent, is the brainchild of USHG’s CEO Danny Meyer and Blue Smoke’s Senior Managing Partner... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company is Chicago’s original craft beer company. Since 1988, the brewery has thrived on continual innovation and a reliance on quality of ingredients. Goose Island pioneered barrel-aged beer with the renowned Bourbon County Brand Stout which sits alongside the... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

3:00pm CDT

Taking the Reins of an Existing Bar Program
Feedback Survey
You have worked hard, made your way to the top, and finally have the opportunity to take the reigns. What now? The do’s and don’ts of taking someone else’s bar program to the next stage. Join Bar managers Erick Lorincz (The Savoy), Jillian Vose (Dead Rabbit), Ezra Star (Drink), and Jeff Bell (PDT) as they talk about their struggles and accomplishments as the new leaders of these classic bars.
Moderators
avatar for Ezra Star

Ezra Star

General Manager/Bar Manager, Drink/Barbara Lynch Gruppo
Beginning in the kitchen at a young age and eventually finding her place behind the bar, Ezra Star has worked in the restaurant and hospitality industry for many years. She spent years studying biochemistry and Public Health as a means to understand complex structures, but the drive... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jeff Bell

Jeff Bell

General Manager, PDT
Jeff Bell is the General Manager at PDT in New York City and has been working there since 2010. His career in hospitality began his in 2003 washing dishes and bussing tables as a college freshman. Originally just a flexible job to pay for school turned into much more as he worked... Read More →
avatar for Erik Lorincz

Erik Lorincz

Head Bartender, American bar, The Savoy
Erik started his career graduating from the Hospitality School in his native Slovakia in 1999. Shortly afterwards he came across the first bartending book by Roman Uhlir. This inspired Erik greatly and he decided to take up the opportunity to learn about bartending. He joined a... Read More →
avatar for Jillian Vose

Jillian Vose

Bar Manager, The Dead Rabbit Grocery & Grog
Jillian Vose is bar manager at The Dead Rabbit Grocery & Grog, located at 30 Water St. in historic Lower Manhattan. Named after a street gang of the era, The Dead Rabbit is the culmination of Belfast barmen Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry’s lifelong dream. It won “World’s Best... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

3:00pm CDT

The Bartender Spy: Frank Meier
Feedback Survey
Covert World War II missions for the French resistance, forged passports, delicious cocktails: Welcome to the amazing world of legendary Hotel Ritz Paris bartender and spy Frank Meier. While his Art Deco 1936 book, The Artistry of Mixing Drinks, is praised by cocktail lovers and his signature concoction, the Bees’ Knees, is still on menus, much of his heroic wartime activities have just come to light. This panel will seek to fill in the gaps in Meier’s life (including his time training at New York’s famed Hoffman House) and help to explain why he mysteriously disappeared and what happened to him after the war.
Moderators
avatar for Noah Rothbaum

Noah Rothbaum

Chief Cocktail Correspondent, The Daily Beast
Noah Rothbaum is The Daily Beast's Chief Cocktail Correspondent. He is also the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels (Ten Speed Press), which was published in the spring of 2015, and the associate... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Fernando Castellon

Fernando Castellon

Founder/Owner, CASTELLON CONSULTING
Fernando Castellon is a French bar expert, internationally renowned for his work in fields such as bar history (finding many first prints of classic books and cocktails), author (Larousse of Cocktails), editor (Ginger Magazine), and innovations about cocktail techniques.   He started... Read More →
avatar for David Wondrich

David Wondrich

Senior Resident Fellow, North Gowanus Institute for Cranial Distempers
David Wondrich is widely hailed as the world’s foremost authority on the history of the cocktail and one of the founders of the modern craft cocktail movement. The longtime Drinks Correspondent for Esquire magazine, Dr. Wondrich (he has a PhD in Comparative Literature) is a five-time... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

3:00pm CDT

The Global Future Of Sherry in Mixed Drinks
Feedback Survey
It is no secret that sherry has been something of a dormant category, too often associated with the sickly sweet liquid our grandmothers used to drink by the bucket full. Thankfully the last couple of years has seen a resurgence in the number of sherry drinkers and sherry based cocktails with people drinking smarter and indulging in richer, lower ABV cocktails. Join us as we explore a brief history of the sherry category and taste some special and remarkable concoctions before moving on to an overview of sherry cocktails past and present. Experience the liquid's versatility and the possibilities it has to offer. This is an in-depth look and discussion about the global future of sherry in mixed drinks.
Moderators
avatar for Celia Schoonraad

Celia Schoonraad

Celia began her love affair with the hospitality industry over 12 years ago and has developed a passion for quality spirits and warm hospitality. Born and raised in South Africa Celia was first introduced to cocktail culture in New Zealand. Since then she has traversed the globe from... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Michael Callahan

Michael Callahan

Spirit Evangelist, Proof And Company Spirits
Trained in New York and San Francisco, Michael is now widely regarded as one of Asia’s leading bartenders. An expert in independent spirits and American craft cocktail programs, he secured the first-ever Tales of the Cocktail nominations for Southeast Asia as the opening General... Read More →
avatar for Danil Nevsky

Danil Nevsky

Bartender, Tales & Spirits
Danil Nevsky has been involved in the Hospitality industry for over 10 years across a number of roles ranging from dishwasher and culminating in Operations Manager for a Nightclub & Restaurant. This experience in a multitude of roles had him end up in the Cocktail Sector of the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bodegas Williams and Humbert

Bodegas Williams and Humbert

Williams & Humbert: Founded in 1877 by two British brothers-in-law, Alexander Williams and Arthur Humbert, Williams & Humbert’s signature brands are Dry Sack Sherries, Gran Duque D’Alba Spanish Brandies, Dos Maderas Spanish Rums, and Crema De Alba Cream Liqueur. Over the years... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

3:00pm CDT

Three Scotch Blends
Feedback Survey
A comparative tasting of three Scotch blends at benchmark periods over the last century, 1960s-70s, 1980s-90s, today Johnnie Walker Black Label, Buchanans 12, Haig Pinch At a time when there is growing interest in vintage spirits, a unique opportunity to deconstruct the flavour of three of the world’s most famous blended Scotches. We will look at the fascinating, complex history of each of these blends and understand how and why their unique signatures flavours and house styles developed the theory of 'regionality' and 'blend character' and take a unique opportunity to learn how major changes in distilling and maturation post 1945 might have impacted taste and flavour. Discover how the DNA of these blends persists through time Tasting history – we will use archive materials to reveal detailed blend specifications, many featuring long forgotten and never tasted distilleries. Moderated by Dave Broom, with Gregor Cattanach (Johnnie Walker), Ewan Morgan (Buchanans) and Dr Nick Morgan (Pinch)
Moderators
avatar for Dave Broom

Dave Broom

Dave Broom was born in Glasgow (Scotland) and has spent his working life in drink. He is chief engineer of www.scotchwhisky.com and writes for numerous international titles, including Whisky Advocate. He won Best Cocktail & Spirits Writer at the 2015 Spirited Awards. He’s written... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Gregor Cattanach

Gregor Cattanach

Master of Whisky, Director of Whisky Education, Diageo
As a boy, Gregor grew up at distilleries such as Caol Ila, Coleburn, Cragganmore andCardhu in Scotland where his father Evan worked as Master Distiller of these qualitysingle malts. This is where Gregor's apprenticeship truly began. Learning from his father issomething that he never... Read More →
avatar for Ewan Morgan

Ewan Morgan

National Director : Diageo Masters of Whisky, Diageo
Ewan is a third generation ‘whisky man’. His father was maltings manager at Tamdhu Distillery in Speyside and later the distillery manager at Highland Park Distillery on the island of Orkney. His Grandfather was the brewer at the famed distillery Cardhu. Ewan was born in Dufftown... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo
Dr Nicholas Morgan Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo Dr Nicholas Morgan is Head of Whisky Outreach at Diageo plc, the largest Scotch whisky producer. Nick is an acknowledged authority on the Scotch Whisky business and a frequent speaker at Whisky and Spirits events around the world... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Johnnie Walker

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

3:00pm CDT

Why do Cocktail Cultures Develop or Don't
Feedback Survey
Why did France's modern cocktail culture only start developing in the last 5 years, decades after London and New York? What factors helped Australia go from not having a mixed drinks culture at all to being world-level in less than a decade? Why can’t you get a good cocktail in some countries? Join Audrey Fort, co-founder of The Rooster Factory, a brand development boutique agency dedicated to the drinks industry, and her stellar panel of international experts: Stephen Martin, owner of A La Française, a Parisian cocktail bar dedicated to the French bar and cuisine history, George Nemec, globetrotter Czech bartender, part owner of the Starling Bar in Shanghai and founder of the Bohemian National Club and Englishman Mikey Enright, Time Out 2014 legend award, owner of the multi-awarded unique Barber Shop in Sydney. They’ll take you through the macroeconomic factors, history, liquor laws, consumption habits, geographical facts, gentrification, online connection, food trends, daring individuals, etc… that explain why some countries have developed a mature mixology culture and why some haven’t yet.
Moderators
avatar for Audrey Fort

Audrey Fort

Co-Founder, The Rooster Factory
A multilingual globetrotter, bon vivant, cocktails lover, Audrey is a worthy overseas representative of the French Art de Vivre. With a Masters degree in English, Russian and international trade under her belt, she spent a first decade exporting and managing French luxury goods such... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Mike Enright

Mike Enright

Owner, The Barber Shop, Australia
Mike Enright Originally from the UK Mike Enright or sometimes known as Mikey has over twenty five years experience in the hospitality industry. Mikey started his career in traditional ale and managing pubs in England. He was later trained in London as a Cocktail Bartender and moved... Read More →
avatar for George Nemec

George Nemec

“It’s a world of fashion, music, remarkable interiors and unique personalities. It’s like one big Salvador Dali artwork, and in the middle, you are the one able to add a new color.” George Nemec         In 2004 George Jiri Nemec’s contribution to professional bartending... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

3:30pm CDT

Pre-New Orleans Cocktail Tour Happy Hour
Feedback Survey
Pre-tour with Wyborowa Wódka! We’re all about a kick-off, so kick off your New Orleans Cocktail Tour of legendary history with Wybo, a genuine Polish rye vodka based on over 500 years of Polish Vodka craftsmanship.
Sponsors
avatar for Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa – Wybo for short – genuine Polish vodka, created in 1927 with over 500 years of Polish vodka craftsmanship.With quality highlighted by more than 20 international awards from around the world including Vienna, Rome, Brussels and San Francisco, the Pure Rye Grain combined... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

3:30pm CDT

Say The Right Thing: Mastering New Media
Feedback Survey
In an ever-growing landscape of bartending as a profession and cocktail culture making strides in the mainstream, the need has arisen to become more aware of saying the right things at the right time in the right places. This seminar will provide tips and advice to the bartender working for brands, and the full or part-time brand ambassador looking to further their career beyond traditional “piece to camera” media items. We will explore branding and communication, social media (Can you promote yourself on social media without sounding like a shill? What makes good content on different social media sites or should you simply cross-post all content?), live presentations (for the camera, consumers, and corporations), online video (it's a lot of work - is it worth it?), traditional print and web media (in the new era in which nobody has time to fact-check after the interview), and one-on-one personal interactions. Led by Jonathan Pogash who is a frequent consultant for brands and appears on television mixing up cocktails on morning shows, our panel will include media mavens Ian McLaren (Director of Trade Advocacy, Bacardi USA), Charlotte Voisey (Director of Brand Advocacy, William Grant & Sons), journalist/social media savant Camper English. They’ll share their expertise on the topic, and provide new and useful insight for the modern day beverage industry professional.
Moderators
avatar for Jonathan Pogash

Jonathan Pogash

President/Owner, The Cocktail Guru
I am a father of 2, a husband to 1, and a mixer of drinks Jonathan Pogash, “The Cocktail Guru,” is an educator and cocktail consultant for restaurants and beverage brands. With offices in New England and NYC, Jonathan's signature cocktails can be seen and enjoyed in many of North... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Camper English

Camper English

Writer, Alcademics
Camper English is a San Francisco-based cocktails and spirits writer and speaker, and is the publisher/writer of Alcademics.com. He has contributed to Saveur, Details, Fine Cooking, Modern Farmer, Popular Science, the LA Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Whisky Advocate, and many other... Read More →
avatar for Ian McLaren

Ian McLaren

Director Trade Advocacy & Training, Bacardi USA
A proud Scotsman, Ian started his career in the alcohol business straight from school working for an independent wine merchant in his home town of Edinburgh. From here his formative years in the On Premise were spent in the late night scene working in more sticky floored nightclubs... Read More →
avatar for Charlotte Voisey

Charlotte Voisey

Global Head of Brand Ambassador Advocacy , Emcee, William Grant & Sons
Charlotte Voisey is an award-winning mixologist with cocktail recipes published and placedon menus across the world including New York’s famed PDT, the iconic Dorchester Hotel inLondon and Whitechapel in San Francisco.Charlotte’s passion for all things spirits and cocktails keeps... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA
avatar for William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Drinks Business

3:30pm CDT

The New American Rum Revolution
Feedback Survey
Rum was the original American spirit before the Revolution in the 1770s, fueled by cheap and readily accessible molasses coming from the Caribbean colonies. Excessive taxes and political pressure (and a little disagreement with England) changed everything. Finally, the nightmare of prohibition set the final nail in the coffin of the American Rum industry. Nearly a century later, we find craft rum distilleries sprouting up across America at an astounding pace. National, regional and local rums distillers are gaining well-deserved attention -- with many making their mark as true artisan spirits -- winning awards and setting new standards for authentic, hand-made rum.

We'll explore rum's past, taste rum's present and predict rum's future in a seminar hosted by the editors of Robs Rum Guide along with several award-winning American rum distillers.
Moderators
RB

Robert Burr

president, Quantum Leap Network - Robs Rum Guide
Robert publishes Robs Rum Guide and the National Rum Examiner, as well as rum reviews on the Rum Minute YouTube video channel. He is host of the Miami Rum Festival/Trade Expo and the annual Rum Renaissance Caribbean Cruise. Robert serves as a judge in international rum tasting competitions... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Rob V. Burr

Rob V. Burr

Robs Rum Guide / Rum Minute
Often described as the younger and better-looking version of his father, "Rob the RumScout" appreciates the finer points of quality rum cocktails. Co-host of Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, co-writer of the National Rum Examiner column, and co-producer of Rum Minute on YouTube. Rob... Read More →
avatar for Steven Gubb

Steven Gubb

Owner / President, Paradise Imports, LLC
Paradise Imports, LLC is the supplier of Gubba Gold Rum & Gubba Silver Rum. Gubba rum is currently distributed in MA, and we are working on expanding distribution to FL, NV, CO and LA. Gubba Gold & Gubba Silver are both 70 proof, pure cane rums, organic, and as we say in Boston... Read More →
avatar for Bob Gunter

Bob Gunter

President & CEO, Koloa Rum Company
Bob Gunter joined Kōloa Rum Company in 2008 as Chief Operations Officer and was subsequently promoted to President in May 2010 and CEO in February 2013, with responsibility for all aspects of the Company’s daily operations. Bob has lived and worked in Hawaii for more than 30... Read More →
avatar for Trey Litel

Trey Litel

President, Bayou Rum Distillery
It started with an idea that came out of a duck blind conversation while hunting near the Lacassine Wildlife Refuge and the local Louisiana sugarcane fields. That idea has grown into Bayou® Rum available now in about 20 states and quickly becoming America's Rum® with 79 awards... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bayou Rum

Bayou Rum

Bayou Rum is handmade in the largest privately-owned rum distillery in the USA, utilizing traditional methods with state-of-the-art equipment for all four steps: fermentation, distillation, maturation, and bottling. The beautiful facility right down the road in Lacassine, Louisiana... Read More →
avatar for Gubba Rum

Gubba Rum

Gubba Silver Rum, infused with real coconut and Gubba Gold Rum, infused with real vanilla. Cane based rums made with organic ingredients, never any flavorings or extracts, 35% ABV. Without doubt, among the smoothest, best tasting rums, at any price, you have ever experienced!
avatar for Kōloa Rum Company

Kōloa Rum Company

Award Winning, Handcrafted, Single-Batch Premium Hawaiian Rum Made with Hawaiian Cane Sugar and Pristine Rainwater from Mt. Waialeale One of the Wettest Spots on Earth.

Wednesday July 20, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

4:00pm CDT

New Orleans Cocktail Tour
Feedback Survey
There’s a reason Tales of the Cocktail® calls New Orleans home—the city’s legendary bars and bartenders helped shaped how Americans drink. Join us as we explore the rich cocktail history of our city with a spirited romp through the French Quarter led by legendary tour guide, Joe Gendusa. We’ll start in Le Booze bar of the Royal Sonesta then head out as Joe shares tall tales of the famous bars, restaurants, people and cocktails that made New Orleans such a famous place to have a drink.

*First cocktail at Le Booze included. Cocktails available for purchase at bar stops.
Speakers
JG

Joe Gendusa

Gendusa is a New Orleans native and a respected teacher for 38 years. After his retirement, he joined forces with Tales of the Cocktail® founder, Ann Tuennerman, to start what is known today as New Orleans Original Cocktail Tour. Gendusa has also written a book entitled History With... Read More →

Wednesday July 20, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

6:00pm CDT

Keynote: Enduring Hospitality: The Creative Process & The Human Experience
Feedback Survey
Tales of the Cocktail® in partnership with Food Republic, Visit New Orleans, and Vantguard, is proud to have Albert Adrià, Marc Alvarez Safont, Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas delivering the keynote address on Wednesday, July 20 to kick off this year’s festivities. 

The creative process of Inspiring people doesn’t begin with food and drink, although they play an enormous role. The hospitality adventure begins the moment you make a reservation, and one hopes the memory of the experience stays with you long after you have walked out the door.

This year Tales of the Cocktail® is bringing to together some of the world’s most celebrated masters of innovation who will share their thoughts and views on how they create human experiences, their unique approaches to innovation and how attention to the tiniest details affect lasting memories for guests. They’ll discuss food and drink, the growing appeal of cocktail culture in the international culinary scene. Join our four award winning guests in a lively conversation featuring Bartender, Marc Alvarez Safont, Chefs Grant Achatz & Albert Adria, and creator of Tock reservations and co-founder of the Alinea group, Nick Kokonas for inspiring stories and shared knowledge. Moderated by Simon Ford.

Read More About the 2016 Keynote 
Moderators
avatar for Simon Ford

Simon Ford

Cofounder, FORDS GIN
Cocktail bars and Gin

Speakers
avatar for Grant Achatz

Grant Achatz

Executive Chef and Co-Owner, Alinea
Grant Achatz is the executive chef and co-owner of Alinea in Chicago, IL. Since 2007, Restaurant Magazine has recognized Alinea on their World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, twice being named the Best Restaurant in North America and last year ranking number 26 in the world. In 2013... Read More →
avatar for Albert Adrià

Albert Adrià

20th October of 1969. Albert Adrià is born in the neighborhood of Santa Eulàlia, in l’Hospitalet, is son of Ginés and Josefa. His parents instill him an interest for cuisine; but is his brother Ferran, whom introduces him to the passion for the profession. 1985-1997. On the... Read More →
avatar for Marc Alvarez

Marc Alvarez

Group Bar Manager, elBarri group
Marc Alvarez Safont got his start in the world of hospitality working in various restaurants at fifteen years old. Little by little, Marc shifted his interests to the cocktail world. Years and a biological science degree later, his passion for mixology became more than just a job... Read More →
avatar for Nick Kokonas

Nick Kokonas

Nick Kokonas is the co-owner and developer of the renowned restaurants Alinea, Next, The Aviary, and Roister.  As an outsider to the restaurant business Nick's approach has been markedly innovative.  He has pioneered the use of alternative booking solutions and is the founder and... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Food Republic

Food Republic

Food Republic
Where Food, Drink & Culture Unite. 
avatar for The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation

The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation

From restaurants to jazz clubs to parks to shops, there are endless ways to follow your NOLA in New Orleans. Everyone’s NOLA is different. Follow yours at followyournola.com.
avatar for Vantguard

Vantguard

We believe in challenging the norm by avoiding the mainstream and creating brands which provide unique and satisfying experiences.We live in the moment, working hard but having fun along the way.We believe in building a good working environment which breeds creativity, with no room... Read More →


Wednesday July 20, 2016 6:00pm - 7:30pm CDT
The Civic Theater
  Special Events
 
Thursday, July 21
 

10:00am CDT

Getting Lit at the Hotel Monteleone - Literary Libations
Feedback Survey
What do William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote, Eudora Welty, Erle Stanley Gardener, Anne Rice, Rebecca Wells, Sherwood Anderson, Winston Groom, Stephen Ambrose, and a host of other prominent authors have in common? They all stayed (and probably drank) at the Hotel Monteleone. Join Philip Greene, author of To Have and Have Another – A Hemingway Cocktail Companion and a co-founder of the Museum of the American Cocktail, on this spirited study of this great hotel and it’s enduring literary legacy, focusing on the favorite drinks of the many authors who placed their corduroy-patched elbows on the bar!
Moderators
avatar for Philip Greene

Philip Greene

Consultant/Brand Ambassador, Papa's Pilar Rum, Hemingway Rum Co.
Philip Greene is an attorney, writer and cocktail historian.  He is Trademark and Internet Counsel to the U.S. Marine Corps, based at the Pentagon.  He is also one of the founders of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans.  He has presented at conferences, festivals... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry
avatar for Papa's Pilar Rum

Papa's Pilar Rum

Papa’s Pilar Rum is an award-winning premium sipping rum, crafted with the Hemingway family and inspired by Papa’s spirit for adventure. Sourced from hand-selected rums spanning the Caribbean, U.S. & Central America, our artisan-crafted spirit is solera aged and blended in American... Read More →
avatar for Sazerac Rye

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

10:00am CDT

It's Bond: Bottled-in-Bond
Feedback Survey
You remember that one time you bought a jug of whiskey, only to learn half of it was tobacco juice? In the 1800s, that scenario happened to millions of thirsty whiskey drinkers. Unsavory rectifiers and wholesalers purchased barrels of whiskey from the distiller and cut it with other liquids to make the whiskey appear darker and the barrel’s volume last longer. The issue was so vast and troublesome that Congress convened to pass the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, a law that still gave consumers absolute assurance that the spirit was not cut with junk. Unfortunately, Bottled-in-Bond lost appeal in the 1960s and fell to the bottom shelf, where it became damn near extinct. But the regulation stood strong and the once forgotten category has grown from just a handful to more than 20 on liquor shelves. It’s Bond: Bottled-in-Bond is the seminar for history buffs, value seekers and those looking to find the next big trend in American spirit. In aged spirits, consumers face constant uncertainty. Where does it come from? How old is it? Just like in 1897, Bottled-in-Bond tells you all you need to know.
Moderators
avatar for Fred Minnick

Fred Minnick

Author, Author
Author of Bourbon & Rum Books

Speakers
avatar for Erik Ettner

Erik Ettner

Brandymaker / Winemaker, O'Neill Vintners & Distillers
Erik Ettner is a Central California native who embodies the hard working and innovative nature of those who inhabit the area.  Before his career in distillation he studied wine making at Fresno State University while working in a viticulture research laboratory.  His roots in winemaking... Read More →
avatar for Allen Katz

Allen Katz

Co-Founder, New York Distilling Company
Allen Katz is the co-founder of the New York Distilling Company in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he produces Dorothy Parker – American Gin, Perry’s Tot – Navy-Strength Gin, Chief Gowanus – New-Netherland Gin, Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye…and Ragtime Rye. He is also the Director... Read More →
avatar for Bernie Lubbers

Bernie Lubbers

The Whiskey Professor, Heaven Hill Brands
Known as The Whiskey Professor, Bernie Lubbers is the Global Whiskey Ambassador for the family owned and operated Heaven Hill located in Bardstown and Louisville, KY; the largest American owned bourbon company, and holders of 25% of the world's aging bourbon. He hosts the popular... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Heaven Hill

Heaven Hill

America's largest family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, Heaven Hill Brands has grown beyond its traditional roots as a Bourbon distiller to become the country's seventh largest overall distilled spirits producer and marketer with a portfolio of well-known... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

10:00am CDT

Pay to Play: And What Can You Do For Me?
Feedback Survey
How to stay profitable, relevant and still maintain integrity? Brands and bars have long stuck to the traditional sponsorship model in working together whether it’s legal or not. But times are changing. There are many more brands vying for attention and many more tools that brands and bars can use to create value. In a time where craft chefs compete for and proudly list the sources of organic vegetables and sustainably raised animal protein on their menus - the bar programs are rarely following suit. In fact, the craft chefs and craft restaurant owners are more then ready to pay the higher price for quality ingredients and gladly pass it on to the guests, who in turn do not object paying for it. Unfortunately the bar programs are rarely following this trend outside few craft cocktail bars and even fewer are ready to adopt the same reasoning of charging more for higher quality even if it will be only a dollar or two more per drink. When it comes to the beverage programs people are, it seems still asking for a "deal" as if it is somehow someone else's responsibility to make them profitable. There is a widespread idea that 18-19% cost of liquid goods (in the US) that everyone wants to achieve in order to be profitable but how is this influencing the evolution of our craft? Indeed, how are these attitudes and business practices helping our guests have the best possible gastronomical experience? Are we making the best possible drinks or are we sacrificing best possible quality for profitability? This seminar-roundtable will attempt to poke the hornet’s nest by asking panellists and audience questions that are on almost everyone’s mind: Pay to play can be legal but is it ethical? Why is it that the bar owners and bar managers still believe that you can and should get something in return just for buying a product? When and in what circumstances should you expect support? When you are buying quality ingredients - is it still possible to retain 18-19% liquor cost? Do we perceive the spirit companies, suppliers, importers and distributors as bottomless bags of money or are we working together with them as partners in a long chain of moving cases and making the industry better? Join Dushan Zaric (Employees Only & The 86 Co) and his panel of experts, Michael Vachon (Maverick Drinks), Bobby Heugel (Anvil, Houston), Craig Miller (Trade Practice / Training. AZ Dept. of Liquor) and Shervene Shahbazkhani (Bacardi UK) in this really exiting workshop that is intended to create more transparency in the industry at large.
Moderators
avatar for Dushan Zaric

Dushan Zaric

Porter, The 86 Co
Dushan Zaric is the cocktail mastermind behind world-famous New York bars Employees Only and Macao Trading Co. He is widely recognized as an industry leader and a pioneer in craft bartending; his innovative work behind the bar has revolutionized the art of the cocktail. Dushan specializes... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Bobby Heugel

Bobby Heugel

Owner, Anvil Bar & Refuge
Bobby Heugel is an owner and operator of eight bars and restaurants in Houston, Texas through his company, Clumsy Butcher, which partners with talented industry professionals to develop concepts that reflect their personalities. In addition to these establishments, Bobby also consults... Read More →
avatar for Craig Miller

Craig Miller

Industry Trade Practice Investigator, Department of Liquor
Officer Craig Miller has been employed by the Department of Liquor for 20 years.     Officer Miller became pivotal in communications between Arizona liquor industry leaders and the Department of Liquor during a 2012 industry trade practice investigation.  The Department formed... Read More →
avatar for Michael Vachon

Michael Vachon

Head of Brand Development, Maverick Drinks
Michael has been cited as a reference for the craft spirit movement for several major UK on-trade publications, as well as the New York Times. In addition, he has delivered lectures, seminars, and masterclasses on topics including current consumption trends, new market opportunities... Read More →
avatar for Angus Winchester

Angus Winchester

VP Education, Barmetrix
Angus Winchester is a ‘bartender’ of 28 years experience who founded 3 companies, served as the Global Brand Ambassador for Tanqueray Gins and is now the VP for Education & Training for Barmetrix.. In his years in the Drinks and Bar industry he has served drinks to scumbags and... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bathtub Gin
avatar for Tequila Cabeza

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Drinks Business

10:00am CDT

Ten Things To Ask Every Craft Distiller
Feedback Survey
Come learn what’s behind that grainy “new craft spirit smell.” With some 700 craft distilleries now or soon producing across North America, it's increasingly hard to sort craft from crafty. This seminar will provide the tools — a set of simple questions — to help sort one from the other. Attendees will get an overview of the diversity of the craft distilling market, and learn what’s important to know about distillers in this emerging industry. Studies show that “authentic” and “local” are driving sales among a younger cohort, a group also hooked by a compelling narrative. But savvy consumers are demanding truth, not just a good marketing story. The panel will include craft distillers representing both small and large producers who will help bartenders and consumer navigate thorny terrain.
Moderators
avatar for Wayne Curtis

Wayne Curtis

writer, Freelance
Wayne Curtis is the author of “And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails” (2006), a look at the long and ignoble history of America’s most reviled spirit. He’s also a contributing editor at The Atlantic magazine, where he wrote the “Drinks” column... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Scott Blackwell

Scott Blackwell

Founder/Distiller, High Wire Distilling Co.
A “serial entrepreneur” since the age of 10, Scott Blackwell has built his success one innovative culinary venture at a time. From pie maker, restaurateur, and coffee roaster to, most recently, commercial baker, Scott is passionate about blending culinary creativity with high... Read More →
avatar for Maggie Campbell

Maggie Campbell

Head Distiller - Vice President, Privateer Rum
Maggie is Head Distiller - Vice President at Privateer Rum and currently a Masters of Wine student. She was the founder of the Denver Brewer’s League, serves on the Board of Directors of the American Craft Spirit Association and co-chairs their Education Committee. She also serves... Read More →
CK

christian krogstad

Founder and Master Distiller, Aviation American Gin
As founder and master distiller of independently owned and operated House Spirits Distillery, Christian Krogstad is one of the visionaries behind America’s craft distilling resurgence. Krogstad established House Spirits Distillery in 2004, bringing together his experience as a... Read More →
avatar for Brian Prewitt

Brian Prewitt

Master Distiller, A. Smith Bowman Distillery
Brian’s interest in the beverage industry was peaked when he landed a job at a brewery while attending Colorado State University obtaining his bachelor’s degree in food science.  Upon graduation, Prewitt further honed his interest for brewing and distilling by completing the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for A. Smith Bowman

A. Smith Bowman

As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today's standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural... Read More →
avatar for High Wire Distilling Co.

High Wire Distilling Co.

Founded by husband and wife team, Scott Blackwell and Ann Marshall, High Wire is dedicated to making premium, handcrafted, artisan spirits. Their philosophy is simple: seek the finest ingredients available and develop recipes using a creative, culinary approach. All of their spirits... Read More →
avatar for House Spirits Distillery

House Spirits Distillery

Founded in 2004 by Christian Krogstad, House Spirits Distillery is a leader of America’s craft distilling resurgence and the anchor of Portland, Oregon’s famed Distillery Row.  The company’s award-winning products include Aviation American Gin, Westward Oregon Straight Malt... Read More →
avatar for Perfect Purée of Napa Valley

Perfect Purée of Napa Valley

Since 1988, The Perfect Purée of Napa Valley has indulged the culinary passions of chefs, mixologists and food enthusiasts with products that provide ultimate fresh fruit flavor without the peeling, dicing and simmering required for making purées from scratch.The company offers... Read More →
avatar for Privateer Rum

Privateer Rum

We handcraft our rum from cane to bottle with a commitment to quality and transparency. Founded in 2011 in Ipswich Massachusetts by Andrew Cabot, a direct descendant of a Privateer and rum distiller from the days of the American Revolution. Our rums are unsweetened, unfiltered, and... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:00am CDT

The Perfectly Poured Beer Cocktail
Feedback Survey
On a hot summer day there’s nothing like cracking open a cold beer and chugging the heat away. Refreshingly delicious, beer is great on its own but it also has the ability to add carbonation, texture and a variety of complex flavors - ranging from citrus to coffee - to any cocktail.

In this seminar, Elayne Duff AB-InBev's craft beer division Global Event Manager (and former James Beard-nominated mixologist) will team up with Lynnette Marrero ( Co-Founder of Speed Rack and Owner of DrinksAt6 Consulting. 2015 Food and Wine + Forbes Most Innovative Women in food and drink ), Jacob Grier, author of Cocktails on Tap: The Art of Mixing Spirits and Beer and Christian Siglin (2014 Eaters bartender of the year). In this seminar you will learn: the best spirit and beer combinations, the different beer varietals and their uses within the components of the cocktail, the benefits that beer can bring to played out classics, pitfalls to avoid when embarking on cocktail development, and other artisanal uses for beer. All while tasting some traditional and not-so-traditional beer cocktails created by our experts!
Moderators
avatar for Elayne Duff

Elayne Duff

Global Event Manager- Craft Beer, Ab-Inbev
Jet-set mixologist turned craft-beer Event Manager for AB-InBev, the world's largest beer company; Elayne Duff's love of the drinks business has taken a new turn, from shaking and stirring to hops and cask. A native New Yorker, some of Elayne's first jobs after graduating college... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jacob Grier

Jacob Grier

Founder, Aquavit Week
Jacob Grier is the author of Cocktails on Tap: The Art of Mixing Spirits and Beer and the founder of Aquavit Week. He tends bar in Portland, Oregon, currently at the Multnomah Whiskey Library and at the forthcoming Wayfinder Beer. His writing has appeared at The Atlantic, Reason... Read More →
avatar for Lynnette Marrero

Lynnette Marrero

Owner/Co-Founder, DrinksAt6/Speed Rack
Lynnette Marrero’s “spirited” career began when she accepted a job at New York’s Flatiron Lounge alongside cocktail savant Julie Reiner. Marrero quickly made the transition from cocktail-waitress to bartender and knew that the spirits industry was her true calling. After learning... Read More →
avatar for Christian Siglin

Christian Siglin

As native San Diegan, Christian began his career tending bar at the Hyatt Regency in La Jolla. From there, Christian joined the opening team at Noble Experiment, which he trained under New York's Sam Ross (Milk & Honey, Attaboy), and he was able to infuse the classical training he... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company is Chicago’s original craft beer company. Since 1988, the brewery has thrived on continual innovation and a reliance on quality of ingredients. Goose Island pioneered barrel-aged beer with the renowned Bourbon County Brand Stout which sits alongside the... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

10:00am CDT

A Spirited Salon: Conversations with 6 Legendary Authors
Feedback Survey
From cocktail manuals to mixology memoirs to historical spirits studies, there has never been so much great reading for a drinks lover to enjoy. Join us to hear six legendary authors read from their books. You'll receive a refreshing welcome cocktail to savor and get the chance to ask the participants questions. If you love reading and cocktails, don't miss this rare opportunity to mix and mingle with today's top writers.

Speaker Lineup:


  • Martin Cate

  • Paul Clarke

  • Jack McGarry

  • Jim Meehan

  • Sean Muldoon

  • Gary Regan

  • David Wondrich

Moderators
avatar for Noah Rothbaum

Noah Rothbaum

Chief Cocktail Correspondent, The Daily Beast
Noah Rothbaum is The Daily Beast's Chief Cocktail Correspondent. He is also the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels (Ten Speed Press), which was published in the spring of 2015, and the associate... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Martin Cate

Martin Cate

Owner, Smuggler's Cove
avatar for Paul Clarke

Paul Clarke

Executive Editor, Imbibe
Paul Clarke is the executive editor of Imbibe magazine and the author of The Cocktail Chronicles (Spring House Press). A journalist who has specialized in spirits, cocktails and the culture of drink for nearly a decade, he has written for the New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle... Read More →
avatar for Jack McGarry

Jack McGarry

Co-Founder, The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog
Jack McGarry is The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog’s co-founder and operating partner, who also created its extensive historically-based drinks program. In July 2013, he was honored with the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail International Bartender of the Year award. He is its youngest... Read More →
avatar for Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan, author of the The PDT Cocktail Book, entered the hospitality business in 1995 while studying at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He worked his way through school as a bartender, then moved to New York City in 2002 to hone his palate and develop his craft in venues... Read More →
avatar for Sean Muldoon

Sean Muldoon

Managing Partner, The Best Bar in the World Hospitality Consulting
Sean Muldoon is Managing Partner of The Best Bar in the World Hospitality Consulting (BBITW), the creative force behind New York’s The Dead Rabbit, GreenRiver in Chicago, the upcoming BlackTail at Pier A in New York and formerly Belfast’s The Merchant Hotel. He is an award-winning... Read More →
avatar for Gary Regan

Gary Regan

owner, bar rags, llc
gaz regan—the bartender formerly known as Gary Regan—is a bartender at The Dead Rabbit, NYC, he was the cocktail columnist for The San Francisco Chronicle for fourteen years, and he’s the author of The Bartender’s Bible, the bartender’s GIN compendium, the Annual Manual... Read More →
avatar for David Wondrich

David Wondrich

Senior Resident Fellow, North Gowanus Institute for Cranial Distempers
David Wondrich is widely hailed as the world’s foremost authority on the history of the cocktail and one of the founders of the modern craft cocktail movement. The longtime Drinks Correspondent for Esquire magazine, Dr. Wondrich (he has a PhD in Comparative Literature) is a five-time... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for BarSmarts
avatar for Pernod Ricard

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Restaurant R'evolution
  Special Events

10:30am CDT

Heartbreak Hotels: Navigating Unions, Highballs and Lowbars
Feedback Survey
Hotels were not only the birthplace of bartending, they once held the highest esteem of drinkers. Fast-forward to now and those days are long gone -- many hotels chains have eviscerated their beverage programs and are commonly filled with sub-par products and un-skilled bartenders -- as hotel consultants, your work is cut out for you. Yet, some bar owners, bartenders, consultants and even the hotels themselves are changing the way hotels do business, heralding the good old days again (or at least taking baby steps). At this professionally-geared seminar, learn how to approach consulting with some of the industry’s best: Bridget Albert (Southern Wine & Spirits), Dänny Ronen (Kathy Casey Liquid Kitchen), Derek Brown (Drink Company) and Jason Nuell (Marriott LifeStyle Brands).
Moderators
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Founder, Positive Damage
Derek Brown is an author, NASM-certified wellness coach, and founder of Positive Damage, Inc. Previously, Brown owned Spirited Awards 2017 “Best American Cocktail Bar” Columbia Room in Washington, D.C., and was one of the nation’s top bartenders.Brown published his first book... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Bridget Albert

Bridget Albert

National Director of Education Beam Suntory, Southern Wine & Spirits
Bridget is an advocate for upbeat education that makes an impact. She has designed beverage programs for top National Accounts and is a James Beard Honoree.   Bridget is the co-author of “Market Fresh Mixology”.  She has won numerous awards and honorable mentions for her work... Read More →
avatar for Jason Nuell

Jason Nuell

Vice President, Brand Operations Design and Development, Marriott International
Jason Nuell is Marriott International’s brand expert within the Global Brand Management (GBM) organization and is the key interface between the GBM and the Center for Specialized Services (CSS) teams within Global Operations Services. He leads complex, organization-wide projects... Read More →
avatar for Danny Ronen

Danny Ronen

Founder / Director of Education, DC Spirits / Liquid Kitchen
Danny Ronen is involved in beverage development and concept ideation, product innovation and activation, staff training and education, as well as new bar set up and openings. Under his tutelage via DC Spirits and Kathy Casey's Liquid Kitchen, national and international properties such as the Fairmont and Raffles Hotels have honed their beverage programs to incorporate workplace efficiencies, including recycling, composting and energy use, which produce both cost savings and better environmental practices. Many of the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Beam Suntory
avatar for Collectif 1806

Collectif 1806

A division of Rémy Cointreau.

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

10:30am CDT

Sound Advice - Better Bar Music
Feedback Survey
In the rush to design brilliant spaces and stock bars with brilliant products, many otherwise brilliant bars are neglecting their music offering, and failing to stimulate the most powerful sense of all. Sasha Petraske used to say he’d made up his mind whether he liked a place 5 seconds after opening the door. Most of your customers probably do it in half that time. But how can this be if your guests haven’t yet had time to see your bespoke bitters and ice program? The answer is, they make that decision at the speed of sound. Music is the most important way to create an instant atmosphere in your venue. It can be used to instantly tell arriving guests what kind of venue this is, and perhaps more importantly, what kind it is not. Your choice of music, and musicians, can subtly suggest to guests that they sit down, stand up, dance around, and drink up. Managed well, it is a guaranteed way to increase guest satisfaction, create a unique experience, give your guests the best night ever, and even increase your rate of sale. Join failed music promoter Jacob Briars, together with DJ and star tender Nick van Tiel, and music industry veteran Vishal Vasan, to learn the latest technology, how to promote your music offering, how to manage it, and what might be the best music to drink to.
Moderators
avatar for Jacob Briars

Jacob Briars

Advocacy Director, Bacardi
Jacob Briars likes to describe himself as New Zealand’s 7th most famous bartender, but usually that just gets people asking where New Zealand is and who the other 6 bartenders are. For the past few years he has travelled the world as a much-loved spirits educator for some of the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Nick van Tiel

Nick van Tiel

Keeping it real
Nick van Tiel is a world-renowned authority on spirits, cocktails and the craft of bartending. He is also an obsessive music fan and has fed this passion by DJing, producing music, and consulting for a number of venues across the world on music and sound design. Beginning his career... Read More →
avatar for Vishal Vasan

Vishal Vasan

Director, W1
World traveling Music & Drinks lover - 50% Kiwi 50% British 100% Indian. Vee has been behind the scene setting up some of New Zealand's most (in)famous bars and restaurants for the past 20 years. From Wellington's Matterhorn to most recently NZ's first members club - Seafarers... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Thursday July 21, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

12:30pm CDT

#SEDTalks: Cocktails, Spirits & The Bartender
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In just 90 minutes, #SEDTalks presents six separate talks, TED-talks style, offering ground-breaking new information and new perspectives that represent the distilled insights of the sharpest minds in our industry. #SED Talks: Cocktails, Spirits & The Bartender Edition include talks on why blends may be better than single malts, explore why women are an undervalued asset in the bar world, the real secrets of Canadian whisky and how cocktails can be scaled up and still be sustainable. Join us! (And don't miss our sister session, #SEDTalks: Bars & Brands Edition).

#SED Speakers:

  • Summer-Jane Bell: Three Hashtags Walk Into A Bar

  • Davin de Kergommeaux: Fibs People Tell About Canadian Whisky

  • Ian McLaren: The Sustainability of Scale in Cocktails

  • Ivy Mix: Double Income, Not Double Standards

  • Dr. Nicholas Morgan: In Praise of Blending

  • Liza Weisstuch: Hooch Journos Spill Their Secrets 

Moderators
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.

Speakers
avatar for Summer-Jane Bell

Summer-Jane Bell

Co Founder, TrophyCocktail Mobile App
Summer-Jane Bell is President of USBG SF (U.S. Bartenders' Guild San Francisco Chapter) and most recently National Brand Ambassador for The House of Angostura®. She's wild about cocktails, adores craft spirits, and is most interested in the space where education and technology interact... Read More →
avatar for Davin de Kergommeaux

Davin de Kergommeaux

Writer & Author, Whisky Canada
Award-winning author of Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert, contributor and feature writer for Whisky Advocate Magazine, contributing editor for Whisky Magazine, founder, Canadian Whisky Awards, whisky judge, public speaker.
avatar for Ian McLaren

Ian McLaren

Director Trade Advocacy & Training, Bacardi USA
A proud Scotsman, Ian started his career in the alcohol business straight from school working for an independent wine merchant in his home town of Edinburgh. From here his formative years in the On Premise were spent in the late night scene working in more sticky floored nightclubs... Read More →
avatar for Ivy Mix

Ivy Mix

Co-Owner and Head Bartender, Leyenda
Ivy Mix is Co­Owner and Head Bartender of Leyenda, her pan­Latin cocktail bar in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, backed by her long­time mentor, Julie Reiner. Leyenda pays tribute to her years of living and bartending in Guatemala, as well as extensive travels throughout all of Latin... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo
Dr Nicholas Morgan Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo Dr Nicholas Morgan is Head of Whisky Outreach at Diageo plc, the largest Scotch whisky producer. Nick is an acknowledged authority on the Scotch Whisky business and a frequent speaker at Whisky and Spirits events around the world... Read More →
avatar for Liza Weisstuch

Liza Weisstuch

Freelance writer & editor
Liza used to cut math class in high school to hang out in the stairwell and write short stories. Clearly, she heard her calling early in life. Today she works as a freelance writer and editor. Her stories have appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Whisky Advocate... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →
avatar for Tropical Foods

Thursday July 21, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, #SEDTalks

12:30pm CDT

Age≠Maturity: The Rise of NAS Whiskies
Feedback Survey
"But, how old is it?" you ask when you see a bottle of whisk(e)y without an age statement. This question is coming up more and more often as new whiskies are released without a number on the bottle. For years consumers have become entranced with the "years old" indicator on a bottle of whisk(e)y, and have come to rely on this number as the key indicator of quality. A recent growth in the release of "Non Age Statement" (NAS) whiskies that have lead consumers and hospitality employees to many questions about the contents of the bottle. This seminar will address the growing trend with a panel of whisk(e)y experts from a cross section of the industry. We will discuss the reasons for the changes along with the potential impact on the industry. We will discuss a movement for a third category of classification for Scotch whiskies that would include full disclosure of the contents, rather than just the youngest whisky in the bottle. We will also delve into how wood affects a whisk(e)y's flavor (angel's share, oxidization, etc.) and the barrel selection process by tasting multiple rare selections of different whiskies from around the globe. By the end you will have a better understanding of why whiskies taste the way they do, how to tell the difference between good whisk(e)y and better whisk(e)y, and you'll see why the answer to, "how old is it?" is most often, "old enough!"
Moderators
avatar for Josh Gelfand

Josh Gelfand

Master of Scotch, Pernod Ricard
Though he now lives in San Francisco, Josh was born and raised on the freeways of Los Angeles. Having lived in Lake Tahoe and San Diego, he considers himself a true Californian and a bridge of the north-south chasm. Introduced to scotch through his father, an avid fan of The Glenlivet... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Don Livermore

Dr. Don Livermore

Master Blender, Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd
The Master Blender for one of North America's largest distilleries located in Windsor Ontario. Responsible for the following award winning whiskies: JP Wiser, Lot No 40, Pike Creek, Gooderham & Worts, and Hiram Walker. Don graduated from the University of Waterloo as a microbiologist... Read More →
avatar for Johnnie Mundell

Johnnie Mundell

Ambassador for Suntory Whisky, BeamSuntory
Love & MarriageWhisky & Japan
avatar for Noah Rothbaum

Noah Rothbaum

Chief Cocktail Correspondent, The Daily Beast
Noah Rothbaum is The Daily Beast's Chief Cocktail Correspondent. He is also the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels (Ten Speed Press), which was published in the spring of 2015, and the associate... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for J.P. Wiser's
avatar for Pernod Ricard

Thursday July 21, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

12:30pm CDT

Members Only: Club Cocktails in History
Feedback Survey
Pegu Club, Clover Club, Pendennis Club — you know them as iconic cocktails, but they were also actual clubs. Join TOTC Spirited Award winners David Wondrich and Jeff “Beachbum” Berry as they storm the gates of history’s most famous — and infamous — private drinking dens. From London’s blasphemous Hellfire Club and its punch-­fueled orgies to Manhattan’s impregnable Marco Polo Club and its millionaire movers and shakers, you have an all-­access pass to the secrets, the sins, and the drinks of the elite, the effete, the bad and the beautiful.
Moderators
avatar for Jeff Berry

Jeff Berry

Owner, Beachbum Berry's Latitude 29
One of Imbibe magazine’s “25 Most Influential Cocktail Personalities of the Past Century” and one of The Daily Meal’s “60 Coolest People in Food & Drink,” Jeff “Beachbum” Berry is the author of six books on vintage Tiki drinks and cuisine, which Los Angeles magazine... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for David Wondrich

David Wondrich

Senior Resident Fellow, North Gowanus Institute for Cranial Distempers
David Wondrich is widely hailed as the world’s foremost authority on the history of the cocktail and one of the founders of the modern craft cocktail movement. The longtime Drinks Correspondent for Esquire magazine, Dr. Wondrich (he has a PhD in Comparative Literature) is a five-time... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Citadelle Gin

Citadelle Gin

Alexandre Gabriel, president of Maison Ferrand, guided by his interminable quest to create fine spirits, set out in 1997 to create one the world’s finest Gins – and he truly means to give Gin a capital G. At the time, gin had largely become an industrial, mass-produced trendy... Read More →
avatar for Pierre Ferrand Cognac

Pierre Ferrand Cognac

In the heart of the famous “Golden Triangle” in Grande Champagne lies the production of one of the world’s most venerated Cognacs, Pierre Ferrand Cognac. Not only is this Cognac considered the “Premier Cru de Cognac” but the house of Cognac Ferrand is lauded as a Grande... Read More →
avatar for Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao

Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao

Those who say beauty is in the eye of the beholder can appreciate the story of the Curaçao orange. Too bitter to eat, with a dimpled, wrinkled exterior that would never win a beauty contest, these homely pieces of citrus become absolute magic when used to create Curaçao liquor... Read More →
avatar for Plantation Rum

Plantation Rum

Alexandre Gabriel is a man with a singular focus from which he has not wavered in the 20 years he has been the head of esteemed Maison Ferrand. His focus and philosophy are simple – to produce special, unique spirits, gems so distinctive and revolutionary that they set the bar for... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

12:30pm CDT

Sink, Swim or Get Out of the Pool
Feedback Survey
Creative use of social media, jet-setting bartenders, and the insatiable awards-driven PR machine would lead us to believe cocktail bars everywhere are packed to the rafters 7/7. It can be disheartening to scroll through your feed looking out from behind an empty bar on a Thursday night, but the hard reality is that most bars are not smashing successes from day one. Others never achieve financial stability nor success despite hard work, press, awards, and peer recognition. This seminar will explore some ways bar owners have reacted when finding themselves running a business that isn’t living up to its expected potential, discuss learning how to review your business on a daily basis, and detect when it’s time for a change. Cost cutting and layoffs? Investing in PR? Décor or concept changes? Outright sale of the business and a change of career path? Or the worst case: shut or being shut down! All of these and more will be discussed in this refreshingly candid seminar. Join us for a discussion with Josh Fontaine of Paris’ Quixotic Projects (Candelaria, Glass, Le Mary Celeste, Hero) who will be joined by Julie Reiner of New York’s Flatiron Lounge, Clover Club and Leyenda, and Mat Snapp, Beverage Director of the 44 restaurants of Fox Restaurant Concepts. Henrik Steen Petersen, formerly of Copenhagen Spirits and Cocktails and Moltkes Bar, will round out the panel by discussing how to face your expiration date like a professional, prepare your exit, and make sure your final night will be a happy one for the sake of your business partners, your employees, your guests, and yourself. Whether you will open a new bar, move behind the stick again or seek work as a brand manager, you will be judged on your latest exit! All four will talk us through their darkest hours as they’ve struggled to keep their businesses afloat, how they found the solutions that were right for their particular situation, and how they have become better business owners as a result. Expect shockingly blunt talk and advice from people who have faced the challenge head on and survived to tell the tale. If you’ve ever looked out into the void, this seminar is for YOU. There will be a significant Q&A period; attendees are expected to bring specific questions regarding their own businesses for the panel to address.
Moderators
avatar for Josh Fontaine

Josh Fontaine

Founder, Quixotic Projects
Josh Fontaine is a founder and partner in Quixotic Projects, an unlikely Paris-based hospitality company, along with Adam Tsou and Carina Soto Velasquez. Starting with Candelaria (currently #12 on the World’s 50 Best Bars list and four-time TOTC “Best International Cocktail Bar... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Henrik Steen Petersen

Henrik Steen Petersen

Moltkes Bar & Simply Cocktails
The driving force and vision behind the renowned Moltke’s Bar and the manager of concept, logistics and education at Copenhagen Spirits and Cocktails. Although both projects achieved success they were ultimately shut down. Valuing professionalism and transparency, this was done... Read More →
avatar for Julie Reiner

Julie Reiner

Co-Owner, Milady's, Clover Club, & Leyenda
Julie Reiner is the co-founder of world-renowned cocktail bars, Clover Club and Leyenda in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, and Milady’s in Soho. She is also the author of The Craft Cocktail Party: Delicious Drinks for Every Occasion (2015). Julie has been elevating the cocktail scene... Read More →
avatar for Mat Snapp

Mat Snapp

Beverage Director, Fox Restaurant Concepts
Mat Snapp is currently the Beverage Director of Fox Restaurant Concepts in charge of creative development, standards, practices, training and implementation. In this capacity he oversees forty-four bar programs and twelve seasonally rotating cocktail and beer menus. Mat has been with... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

12:30pm CDT

Vodka Is Dead...Long Live Vodka!
Feedback Survey
It's been adored and then scorned, one time ubiquitous and then scarce. It's started wars and revolutions, trends and backlashes. It's grabbed more times during a shift though rarely the recommended spirit. It may very well be responsible for the current-day popularity of cocktails, yet the punching bag of that same cocktail community. And somehow, like a cut Rocky in the final round, she always bounces back. 

Why is it that vodka, the category that's cool to hate, remains one of the world's top selling spirits? Is it time vodka is finally granted her amnesty? 

We gather together a panel of some of the world's leading voices in the category to explore a variety of ways vodka deserves to be re-visited. Together, they will present a tasting of vodkas from varying bases to discuss if the notion of vodka being 'tasteless and odorless' is truly accurate. They will explore a variety of current day production techniques that top vodka producers employ and taste never-before shared products that illustrate the unique steps to becoming a vodka. They will look at some of the iconic cocktails that helped launch the spirit to fame, and explore where the category is heading to pose the ultimate questions: Is it time to finally, truly bury the vodka hatchet? 
Moderators
avatar for Joe McCanta

Joe McCanta

Global Ambassador, Grey Goose Vodka
Joe McCanta is an expert on taste. And now, as Global Ambassador for GREY GOOSE vodka, he brings together a passion for great cocktails made from freshest ingredients and the creative skill of a master mixologist. A gifted jazz musician, Joe was raised in southern California before... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Paul Archie

Paul Archie

Founder/Partner, Black Cow
Trained at Chelsea school of art in sculpture Archie has worked an artist, production designer and commercial director. Archie ran his own production company for a number of years. He production designed for David Baily, Ridley Scott Associates and Propaganda before becoming a director... Read More →
avatar for Jared Brown

Jared Brown

Master Distiller, Sipsmith Limited
Sipsmith Master Distiller Jared Brown made his first spirits at age ten after reading that early American colonists froze cider and lifted out the ice to concentrate the alcohol. As an adult (after a degree in hospitality from NYU, five years in operations at the Essex House Hotel... Read More →
avatar for Audrey Saunders

Audrey Saunders

Co-Owner & Beverage Director, Pegu Club
Audrey Saunders is one of the pioneering leaders of modern mixology and the craft cocktail industry. Her New York cocktail lounge, Pegu Club, is also renowned as the bar that jumpstarted the craft-cocktail movement as well as the artisanal spirit industry. Through her mentorship... Read More →
avatar for Claire Smith-Warner

Claire Smith-Warner

Head of Spirit Creation & Mixology, Belvedere Vodka
Claire Smith-Warner is Head of Spirit Creation at Belvedere Vodka and has been working with alcohol in its various forms for over 15 years. Committed to discovering new ways to drink ‘better’, Claire has developed a range of sugar free and 100% fresh fruit flavoured vodkas for... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA
avatar for Belvedere Vodka

Thursday July 21, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

1:00pm CDT

Liquipedia
Feedback Survey
Why isn’t bread alcoholic? Why are Campari and Aperol red? What is actually in Pat O’Briens Hurricane Mix? In Liquipedia, Tristan and Jake will answer all of these questions and eighty-seven more, as they attempt to pose and deliver a set of ninety broadranging booze questions and answers over a ninety minute period. The questions will be answered with a variety of methods including but not limited to, straight verbal answers, practical demonstrations, scientific experimentation, a one time only “phone a friend option”, or by reference to peer reviewed journals and publications. Every answer will, to the greatest extent possible, be a factually correct answer not an opinion, hearsay or folklore. The topics covered will be hugely varied but united by their appropriateness to a Tales of the Cocktail event ie: They will cover the: science/history/mathematics/language of alcohol, cocktails, New Orleans or of Tales of the Cocktail itself. Some of the questions will have a very quick answer, it might even just be a yes or no, some will take a little more time to reach a satisfactory resolution. The next question will not be raised until both Jake, Tristan, an independent adjudicator played by TIME Magazine's Jeffrey Kluger, and timekeeper, Ali Dedianko, have approved the answer given. Eighty of the questions and answers will be preprepared and rehearsed, but to add an air of excitement and challenge to the proceedings ten questions will be generated from the audience guests and via social media during the seminar. Two count down clocks will display the time elapsed and the number of questions answered to further increase the drama. Liquipedia is dedicated to all those alcohol-related questions that are unworthy of a 90-minute seminar, but that it sure would be nice to know the answers to. It will be entertaining, informative, engaging, irreverent, and at times... bizarre. Most of all, it will put to bed forever some of the more persistent pseudo science and urban myths of the drinks world.
Moderators
avatar for Tristan Stephenson

Tristan Stephenson

Author, The Curious Bartender, Fluid Movement
Tristan has been involved in the hospitality industry for 16 years, as a chef, waiter and bartender. After leaving Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant in 2007, Tristan took a role as a Brand Ambassador for the Reserve Brands Group, training bartenders and consumers on the delights... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jake Burger

Jake Burger

Director, Portobello Road Gin / The Ginstitute
Having bartended for 20 plus years, in 2011 Jake stepped out from behind the bar and became part of the team that opened The Ginstitute and launched Portobello Road Gin. Since opening The Ginstitute has educated over 15 000 people on the history and science of gin and is consistently... Read More →
avatar for Ali Dedianko

Ali Dedianko

Director of Education, Belvedere Vodka
Ali Dedianko is a Baltimore native who moved to New York City in 2003 to attend New York University. While she majored in European Studies and minored in Russian Language, she has always had a true passion for spirits. After 7 years behind the bar, she entered the Belvedere Dream... Read More →
avatar for Jeff Kluger

Jeff Kluger

Science Editor, Time Magazine
Jeffrey Kluger is the science editor for Time magazine and Time.com, principally covering science and social issues. His newest nonfiction book is Apollo 8. His newest novel is Freedom Stone, a young tale set on a South Carolina plantation in 1863, also published in 2011. He is the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Belvedere Vodka

Thursday July 21, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, General Interest

1:00pm CDT

Make your Mark: How to Create a Modern Classic
Feedback Survey
When we think of the great bars of the past and present, they are known not by their decor, and certainly not by their toilets, nor even by their staff but by the cocktails created there that have stood the test of time. The signature cocktails of a bar or restaurant are what become their legacy long after last call. Some, like the Duke’s Martini, put a bar’s unique stamp on a classic and make it all their own. Some, like the Benton's Old Fashioned and the Old Cuban, help feed the fame of the bar around the world. And some become so famous, like the Tommy’s Margarita and the Bellini, that they make a bar or even a city a place of pilgrimage. A rare few, like the Bramble and the Penicillin, become so renowned that they become more famous than the bars where they were born, and become the signature of a bartender. What are the How do you go about creating a ‘signature cocktail’? Does it happen organically, or is it by design? Once you have a great drink, how do you make it stick, and how do you make it famous? When is a Signature Drink an asset to your bar, and when is it an albatross? And are we now in an age where Bartenders have Signature Drinks rather than Bars? Celebrated bartenders Naren Young of NYC’s Caffe Dante, Tom Walker lately of the American Bar and now Attaboy, together with not so celebrated bar fly Jacob Briars, will show how, when done well, a Signature Cocktail is a great way to engage guests, turn guests into regulars, drive repeat custom and put you and your bar on the cocktail map for ever.
Moderators
avatar for Jacob Briars

Jacob Briars

Advocacy Director, Bacardi
Jacob Briars likes to describe himself as New Zealand’s 7th most famous bartender, but usually that just gets people asking where New Zealand is and who the other 6 bartenders are. For the past few years he has travelled the world as a much-loved spirits educator for some of the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Robert Simonson

Robert Simonson

Spirits/Cocktail Writer, New York Times
Robert Simonson writes about cocktails, spirits, bars and bartenders for the New York Times, where he had been a contributor since 2000. He is the author of the acclaimed 2014 book "The Old-Fashioned: The World's First Classic Cocktail" (Ten Speed Press). He is also a major contributor... Read More →
avatar for Tom Walker

Tom Walker

Tom’s career in hospitality stretches back 15 years and his career behind the bar is now in its eighth year. Initially starting out as a weekend glass collector at a bar in Newcastle to earn funds for travelling, Tom went on to work in bars in Australia before moving to Edinburgh... Read More →
avatar for Naren Young

Naren Young

MANAGING PARTNER, DANTE
Naren started studying classic cocktails at the tender age of, ahem, 15. Seriously, he did. Over a 20 year career in the hospitality industry, working across many different areas, Naren's skills have taken him around the world in various capacities: from training bartenders and consulting... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Thursday July 21, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

3:00pm CDT

Intelligent Design
Feedback Survey
From retrofits to new builds, Intelligent Design will cover the step by step process of designing the best cocktail bar equipment for your needs. Selecting and arranging the correct bar equipment is crucial to execute the caliber of bar you desire at the volume you expect. Unfortunately bar design is often an afterthought of both designers and operators. An error that needs to be corrected with a proactive approach towards the expectations of the bar. Our panel of experts will teach you how to analyze the needs of your bar and then select the best stainless option available. In existing bars we will share opportunities to improve your design and equipment on a budget. In new builds we will cover the option to buy prefabricated equipment or build a custom designed bar where the sky's the limit.  Francesco LaFranconi is the Head Mixologist for Southern Wine and Spirits. Not only has he been behind hundreds of bars but has also designed a state of the art custom cocktail station. Tobin Ellis owner of Bar Magic, a beverage consultancy specializing in menu development, training and bar design. He has his own signature line of cocktail minded bar equipment with Perlick, a leader in stainless manufacturing. Joaquin Simo is a proprietor and bartender of Pouring Ribbons in New York, a high volume cocktail bar designed to utilize their tight space extremely efficiently. 
Speakers
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.
avatar for Tobin Ellis

Tobin Ellis

Principal, BarMagic of Las Vegas
Tobin is owner of BarMagic of Las Vegas, a hospitality design & consulting firm established in 1997 that specializes in concept development, bar design, and hospitality operations. BarMagic’s portfolio of clients include MGM Mirage, Marriott/Ritz Carlton, Starbucks Coffee Company... Read More →
avatar for Francesco Lafranconi

Francesco Lafranconi

Executive Director of Mixology and Spirits Educator, Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada
One of the world’s foremost mixologist, Francesco Lafranconi is the Executive Director of Mixology and Spirits Educator for Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada. Francesco’s personal appeal has made him a hit with his A-list celebrity clientele, world-class corporate clients... Read More →
avatar for Joaquin Simo

Joaquin Simo

Bartender/Owner, Pouring Ribbons NYC
Joaquín Simó, 37, has traveled a long way from his native Ecuador in his search for the perfect daiquiri. Raised amongst Cuban family in Miami, he grew up eating fruits and vegetables fresh from his grandfather's farm and helping his father at his French bakery. His epicurean... Read More →
avatar for Shawn Soole

Shawn Soole

Principal/Owner, S2 Hospitality Concepts
Victorian Bon Vivant at large, Shawn has been behind two of Canada's most nominated and awarded restaurant & bars. Multiple Tales of the Cocktail nominated Clive's Classic Lounge, as founder of Little Jumbo & Author of Cocktail Culture. Shawn's goals are to help continuing to put... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Forty Creek Whisky

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

3:00pm CDT

The Roof is on Fire! Dangerous Drinks
Feedback Survey
In 2012 a woman who consumed a liquid nitrogen cocktail had life-saving surgery to remove her stomach, and the same liquid poured into a swimming pool nearly killed several partygoers in 2013. YouTube is full of videos of people stupidly swallowing dry ice and catching fire thanks to flamed drinks with absinthe and overproof spirits. Nicotine, quinine, and stone fruit pitts are toxic at certain levels, yet bartenders and home mixologists are playing fast and loose with tobacco infusions, tonic water syrup, and homemade amaretto. The tonka beans in the original Boker’s Bitters and the grass in bison grass vodka contain coumarin, which is banned as a food additive in the United States because it thins the blood; and the thujone level from wormwood in absinthe and vermouth is required to be legally negligible in America. In fact, a lot of 'traditional' bitters, amari, liqueur, and other drink ingredients are dangerous without certain processing or at high quantities. Plus, increasingly consumers are hyper-sensitive to nut, gluten, and other allergies and dietary requirements. This seminar will examine various dangers in cocktails and bartending, including the physical, the chemical, and the allergical (that's a new word). We'll discuss both legal requirements and practical advice for keeping within safe limits of certain ingredients and techniques, as well as where to look to find this information on your own for the future. This seminar will be a thrillride of danger! Responsibly.
Moderators
avatar for Camper English

Camper English

Writer, Alcademics
Camper English is a San Francisco-based cocktails and spirits writer and speaker, and is the publisher/writer of Alcademics.com. He has contributed to Saveur, Details, Fine Cooking, Modern Farmer, Popular Science, the LA Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Whisky Advocate, and many other... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Avery Glasser

Avery Glasser

Co-Founder, Bittermens, Inc.
Avery Glasser is co-founder of New Orleans based Bittermens, Bittermens Spirits and Vendetta Spirits where he focuses on creating and producing new products for the cocktail community. A dedicated barfly, Avery was invited to a bitters making event while living in San Francisco in 2007. His first attempt at making a flavor combination resulted in what is now the Bittermens Xocolatl... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Disaronno

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

3:00pm CDT

Uniquely Australian
Feedback Survey
Discover what makes Australian spirits so unique, everything from production methods to the native ingredients used, the sustainable practices and the charming characters behind the brands. Kathleen Davies the owner of Nip of Courage who represents only Australian made and owned brands from artisan distilleries all over Australia with the help of her Aussie distiller mates will take you on a journey through some of Australia’s rarest small batch spirit releases. Taste an exclusive spirit flight of twenty products that includes a world first release of a 100% Rye Whisky that has been peated in the world’s greenest distillery, a delicious unreleased Single Malt Whisky project release, a native Australian black spiced Rum, beautiful rare aged Rums, a swag of small batch Australian inspired Gins with native botanicals and a cheeky Vodka inspired by Australian humor. You will be captivated by the unique flavors and amazing stories behind these products. These guys are traveling a long way to share this wonderful experience with you, seats are limited and so is this fantastic booze line up so don’t miss out!
Moderators
avatar for Kathleen Davies

Kathleen Davies

Founder, Nip of Courage, Australia
Nip of Courage Founder - Kathleen is an experienced sales and marketing professional with over 20 years front line experience in the liquor industry in Australia and abroad. After completing university and working six years in the hospitality industry she later gained commercial... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Peter Bignell

Peter Bignell

Owner Distiller, Belgrove Distillery
Peter is often described as a renaissance man – farmer, sculptor, engineer, coppersmith, environmentalist and bio-fuel chemist, and now the distiller of Australia’s first 100% Rye whisky, and the world’s first peated 100% Rye whisky. Those who know of Peter's exploits at Belgrove... Read More →
avatar for Genise Hollingworth

Genise Hollingworth

Partner, Distiller & Licensee, Black Gate Distillery
I am a mother of 3 girls, I live in a small rural town with a population of 400 people in Central West NSW Australia. In 2009 my husband Brian and I decided to make a big change and build a distillery. While still working full time, we had the shed built and then proceeded to do all... Read More →
avatar for Cameron MacKenzie

Cameron MacKenzie

Founder/Distiller, Four Pillars Distillery
Before throwing my lot into the production of craft spirits, I was a fifteen year veteran of the wine trade having made, sold, marketed and judged some really wonderful wines. Australia has some rare and unique botanicals and I am fascinated in how well they work in craft gin pr... Read More →
avatar for Samuel Ng

Samuel Ng

Global Brand Ambassador, Four Pillars Gin
Sam loves talking gin! Especially the Australian stuff! Proud ambassador for Four Pillars Gin, based out of the famous wine region in the Yarra valley, in Victoria, Australia. Sam has his background in cocktail bartending, most notably at the Black Pearl in Fitzroy, where he was... Read More →
avatar for David Vitale

David Vitale

Founder, New World Whisky Distillery
I'm the founder of Australia's best single malt whisky - STARWARD. Our distinctive whisky is matured in Australian wine barrels and Melbourne's highly variable climate matures our whisky much faster than in traditional countries without compromising the quality of the whisky. I'd... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Nip of Courage

Nip of Courage

Nip of Courage is a leading Australian Distributor & Exporter of Australian Craft Spirits. Based in Sydney Nip of Courage operates with an emphasis on providing customers in Australia and beyond with high quality boutique craft spirits sourced from authentic Australian Artisan Distilleries.Nip... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

3:00pm CDT

United Libations
Feedback Survey
At every cocktail bar in the world, end of shift drinks are served with conversation about the most minute details of technique and service. And as our industry continues to expand globally, the cultural differences and cross-cultural truths exposed in those conversations are more evident than ever before. So join us as we discuss, demonstrate and raises glasses to 3 distinct international styles with our panel of industry leading bartenders from the U.S., Japan, and Latin America. We’ll examine the finer aspects of speed, service, showmanship and what makes a good bartender, as well as look at the influences from which each regional style is born. There’s more than one way to stir a cocktail, a カクテル, or a cóctel, and in this global summit we aim to figure out why. Barspoons will be crossed, shakers will fly, treaties will be broken.
Moderators
avatar for Mark Schettler

Mark Schettler

GM, Bar Tonique
"Be excellent to each other and party on dudes!" USBG New Orleans Chapter President, & Bar Tonique GM.

Speakers
avatar for Julio Cabrera

Julio Cabrera

Managing Partner, The Regent Cocktail Club. Miami
Julio Cabrera is a world renowned bartender whose career has spanned over 25 years. His tenures have included Italy, Mexico, his native Cuba, and currently Miami. He graduated with high honors at the Hotel and TourismUniversity at trainer capacity in Nicosia, Cypress in 1991. He... Read More →
avatar for Charles Joly

Charles Joly

Founder, Crafthouse Cocktails
Chicago native Charles Joly is an award-winning, lifelong food and beverage professional. In 2012 Joly took on the roll of Beverage Director at the Aviary in Chicago. Partnered with Chef Achatz this venture was granted the 2013 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. Formerly... Read More →
avatar for Shuichi Nagatomo

Shuichi Nagatomo

Founder, Bar Oscar
Shuichi Nagatomo has over 20 years experience as a bartender in Fukuoka & Tokyo. He is recognized as a successor to Mr Kazuo Uyeda and mentor in his own right to generations of Japanese bartenders. Shuuichi owns Bar Seven Seas, Bar Palme D’or, and Bar Oscar- a bartender at the latter... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Diageo World Class

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Bartending Career

3:30pm CDT

Pre-New Orleans Cocktail Tour Happy Hour
Feedback Survey
Pre-tour with Wyborowa Wódka! We’re all about a kick-off, so kick off your New Orleans Cocktail Tour of legendary history with Wybo, a genuine Polish rye vodka based on over 500 years of Polish Vodka craftsmanship.
Sponsors
avatar for Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa – Wybo for short – genuine Polish vodka, created in 1927 with over 500 years of Polish vodka craftsmanship.With quality highlighted by more than 20 international awards from around the world including Vienna, Rome, Brussels and San Francisco, the Pure Rye Grain combined... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

3:30pm CDT

Bourbon: Do The Myths Matter?
Feedback Survey
The most successful whiskey brands realize that they’re in the storytelling business as much as the booze business. The spirits matter, but so do the stories, which create an appealing sense of history and heritage that draw people to brands. That’s why so many of the stories stretch the truth—reality doesn’t always dazzle—but does that hurt or help the industry as a whole? While the mythmaking certainly draws criticism from purists, perhaps there is an argument to be made that is a bonafide part of the industry, and has been an integral part of the business ever since the dawn of modern marketing in the nineteenth century. This seminar looks at how bourbon tales fits in with the great traditions of American mythmaking: Paul Bunyan, Johnny Appleseed, George Washington and his cherry tree. We’ll also examine whether the points where legend diverges from reality—this oft-overlooked space upends our conventional thinking about bourbon to reveal important insights about the drink and its true history.
Moderators
avatar for Erick Castro

Erick Castro

Beverage Director, Possessed by Spirits
Erick Castro initially built his cocktail empire at San Francisco's Rickhouse and Bourbon & Branch by searching for obscure recipes, methods and ingredients that originated prior to Prohibition. The bartending behemoth has created unique beverage programs that have earned a place... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Reid Mitenbuler

Reid Mitenbuler

Reid Mitenbuler is the author of Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America's Whiskey (Viking, 2015). His writing has appeared in The Atlantic, Slate, Salon, and Whisky Advocate, among other publications.
avatar for Larry Rice

Larry Rice

Proprietor, The Silver Dollar
Larry Rice, a Kentucky Native has been in the Hospitality industry for over twenty years at all levels. 15 years bar tending, consulting, developing, executing bar programs and finally as a restaurateur with the help of his team, developing restaurant concepts with a heavy focus on... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Beam Suntory

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Drinks Business

3:30pm CDT

The Greatest Brandy Category is…
Feedback Survey
You have your favorite grape brandy category—Cognac, Armagnac, Brandy de Jerez, American Brandy—but do you know why it's the best? In this panel, brandy experts will debate the merits of each category election-style moderated by bar owner and ultimate D.C.-insider Derek Brown (Drink Company). Panelists include Brandy Rand (spirits writer and brand consultant) arguing for Cognac, J.P. Fetherston (Columbia Room) arguing for Spanish Brandy, Dan Farber (Osocalis Distillery) arguing for American Brandy, Jackson Cannon (Hawthorne, Eastern Standard, Island Creek Oyster Bar) arguing for Armagnac. It's an election year, the gloves are off!
Moderators
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Founder, Positive Damage
Derek Brown is an author, NASM-certified wellness coach, and founder of Positive Damage, Inc. Previously, Brown owned Spirited Awards 2017 “Best American Cocktail Bar” Columbia Room in Washington, D.C., and was one of the nation’s top bartenders.Brown published his first book... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jackson Cannon

Jackson Cannon

Owner/Bartender, The Hawthorne
Jackson Cannon Bar Director, Eastern Standard and Island Creek Oyster Bar Owner/Bartender, The Hawthorne Jackson Cannon has always lived to exacting standards. Son and brother of renowned award- winning journalists Lou and Carl Cannon, Jackson grew up immersed in a world of travel... Read More →
avatar for Dan Farber

Dan Farber

Founder/Distiller, Osocalis Distillery
A lover of all spirits, I Founded Osocalis distillery to produce classically styled brandies in the U.S. After three decades, I'm still a student and thus, continue to study distillation and fermentation around the world. An aficionado of fruit and grain based ferments, my real passion... Read More →
avatar for JP Fetherston

JP Fetherston

Head Bartender, Columbia Room
JP Fetherston runs the acclaimed cocktail bar Columbia Room in Washington D.C. in its new location that re-opened in February 2016. JP was named one of the Best New Mixologists of 2016 by Food & Wine magazine. Prior to Columbia Room, JP was a bar manager and bartender at Southern... Read More →
avatar for Brandy Rand

Brandy Rand

VP, U.S. Marketing & Business Development, The IWSR
Brandy Rand has over 15 years marketing experience in the beverage alcohol industry with previous roles at Allied Domecq Spirits & Wines and Bacardi USA, among others. She has worked as a consultant for Beam Suntory, Anheuser-Busch and emerging craft brands like Berkshire Mountain... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Armagnac Delord

Armagnac Delord

In 1893, the itinerant distiller Prosper Delord found the Maison Delord which became Armagnac Delord Frères when his two sons, Gaston et Georges took on the Armagnac. Today, the family tradition carries on with Jacques and Pierre, Prosper's grandson, and the  younger generation... Read More →
avatar for B.N.I.A - Bureau National Interprofessionnel de l'Armagnac

B.N.I.A - Bureau National Interprofessionnel de l'Armagnac

Acknowledged for more than 40 years as the Interprofession, the Bureau National Interprofessionnel de l’Armagnac unites all of the Armagnac producers and traders, ensures the control, the monitoring and the promotion of AOC Armagnac in France and Internationally.More than just a... Read More →
avatar for Chateau de Laubade

Chateau de Laubade

Château de Laubade, built in 1870, is composed of 260 acres of single vineyard, located in Sorbets d’Armagnac in the heart of the noblest area of the appellation: the Bas Armagnac.The Lesgourgues family has been running the estate since 1974.Château de Laubade is one of the very... Read More →
avatar for Château du Tariquet

Château du Tariquet

A product of creativity and ambition, Château du Tariquet represents the spirit of a family with a shared vision of wine and spirits; unbound by tradition. Located in the region of Gascony in South West France, and run by the Artaud and Grassa families since 1912, Château du Tariquet... Read More →
avatar for Copper & Kings American Brandy Company

Copper & Kings American Brandy Company

Copper & Kings is an American Brandy company. Distillation Exclusive. Exclusively Brandy. Exclusively Copper Pot-Distilled. Our ambition is to make beautiful apple and grape brandies in a uniquely non-traditional, modern American idiom.
avatar for Gran Duque d'Alba
avatar for Pierre Ferrand Cognac

Pierre Ferrand Cognac

In the heart of the famous “Golden Triangle” in Grande Champagne lies the production of one of the world’s most venerated Cognacs, Pierre Ferrand Cognac. Not only is this Cognac considered the “Premier Cru de Cognac” but the house of Cognac Ferrand is lauded as a Grande... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

4:00pm CDT

New Orleans Cocktail Tour
Feedback Survey
There’s a reason Tales of the Cocktail® calls New Orleans home—the city’s legendary bars and bartenders helped shaped how Americans drink. Join us as we explore the rich cocktail history of our city with a spirited romp through the French Quarter led by legendary tour guide, Joe Gendusa. We’ll start in Le Booze bar of the Royal Sonesta then head out as Joe shares tall tales of the famous bars, restaurants, people and cocktails that made New Orleans such a famous place to have a drink.

*First cocktail at Le Booze included. Cocktails available for purchase at bar stops.
Speakers
JG

Joe Gendusa

Gendusa is a New Orleans native and a respected teacher for 38 years. After his retirement, he joined forces with Tales of the Cocktail® founder, Ann Tuennerman, to start what is known today as New Orleans Original Cocktail Tour. Gendusa has also written a book entitled History With... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

5:30pm CDT

Meet the Distillers Happy Hour
Feedback Survey
Meet the Distillers is our homage to the people and spirits that make the world such an interesting place to drink. In 2016, this annual event returns with a display of craft spirits that’s bigger and better than ever before. More than 50 distillers from across the country and around the world will be serving up their creations neat as The Deltaz, a nationally-touring band from California, fill the room with their own brand of folk, country, blues and rock. Join us for this special Happy Hour as distillers share the secrets behind their craft spirits.  

A special edition Tales of the Cocktail Glencairn Crystal glass will be provided to each guest. 
Sponsors
avatar for A. Smith Bowman

A. Smith Bowman

As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today's standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural... Read More →
avatar for Arvero

Arvero

Established in 1996, the Nastro D’oro distillery produces the typical liqueurs of the ­Sorrento Peninsula. The quality of the handcrafted products is sustained through the careful selection of natural ingredients and the authenticity of the traditional recipes. Árvero is produced... Read More →
avatar for Azunia Tequila

Azunia Tequila

Azuñia is smooth, clean craft tequila with authentic flavor from the local terroir in every sip. It is the exclusive export of AgaverosUnidos de Amatitán and its second-generation, family-owned-and-operated Rancho Miravalle estate, which has created exceptional tequila for nearly... Read More →
avatar for Balcones Distilling

Balcones Distilling

In only its seventh year in business, Balcones has gone on to acquire over 145 accolades and awards from respected judges, panels and competitions around the globe, cementing its position as one of the most highly regarded craft whisky distilleries in the world. Balcones Distillery... Read More →
avatar for Balsam
avatar for BATCH, Hyatt French Quarter
avatar for Beefeater Gin
avatar for Bitter Truth
avatar for Black Cow Pure Milk Vodka

Black Cow Pure Milk Vodka

Situated on England’s West Dorset coast we produce the worlds only Pure Milk Vodka™ made entirely from the milk of grass grazed cows and nothing else. Fresh whole milk makes an exceptionally smooth vodka with a unique creamy character.
avatar for Black Dirt Distillery

Black Dirt Distillery

Black Dirt Distillery began in 2003 as NY state's first micro distillery. From the beginning this distillery has been using ingredients sourced directly from the Black Dirt region, creating some of the most vibrant spirits to emerge on the market in generations.
avatar for Brenne
avatar for California Walnuts
avatar for Cardrona Distillery, Ltd
avatar for Cathead Distillery

Cathead Distillery

Mississippi's Distillery located just north of Jackson, MS established in 2010.
avatar for Catoctin Creek Distilling
avatar for CH-Dogma

CH-Dogma

In partnership with The Dogma Group, CH Distillery announces the launch of a new company extension, CH-Dogma. The new company features a collaborative product series with partners of the well-respected, Chicago-based The Dogma Group (Clint Rogers, Alex Renshaw, and Brian Sturgulewski... Read More →
avatar for Château du Tariquet

Château du Tariquet

A product of creativity and ambition, Château du Tariquet represents the spirit of a family with a shared vision of wine and spirits; unbound by tradition. Located in the region of Gascony in South West France, and run by the Artaud and Grassa families since 1912, Château du Tariquet... Read More →
avatar for Copper & Kings American Brandy Company

Copper & Kings American Brandy Company

Copper & Kings is an American Brandy company. Distillation Exclusive. Exclusively Brandy. Exclusively Copper Pot-Distilled. Our ambition is to make beautiful apple and grape brandies in a uniquely non-traditional, modern American idiom.
avatar for Coppersea Distilling

Coppersea Distilling

A Heritage-Methods farm distillery located in New York's Hudson Valley.
avatar for Corsair Distillery
avatar for De Borgen Distillery

De Borgen Distillery

De Borgen Distillery is the craft division of one of the last independent family owned genever distilleries in the north of Holland. Established in 1888 and renowned for its long tradition of catching the best flavours from herbs, fruits and peels.
avatar for Distillery No. 209

Distillery No. 209

Registered Distillery No. 209 was established in St. Helena, California in 1882. It was the 209th distillery permitted in the United States, hence our name. Recreated in 2005, this artisanal, modern-styled gin is created from start to finish by one person, with a distinctive aromatic... Read More →
avatar for Don Ciccio & Figli

Don Ciccio & Figli

DON CICCIO & FIGLI SHARES THE RICH HISTORY OF ARTISANAL LIQUEUR MAKING FROM THE AMALFI COAST TO THE UNITED STATES THROUGH A SERIES OF TIME-TESTED RECIPES HANDED DOWN FROM GENERATION TOGENERATION. DON CICCIO’S ARTISANAL LIQUEURS OFFER A REFRESHING GLIMPSE OF THE PAST WITH A NOD TO... Read More →
avatar for Douglas Laing
avatar for El Dorado Rum
avatar for Four Pillars Gin

Four Pillars Gin

Four Pillars is a small Australian gin distillery in Healesville, Yarra Valley founded by three bald blokes – Cam, Stu and Matt. We’re driven by our desire to elevate the craft of distilling and celebrate the art of cocktail making.Using two copper pot stills hand-made by CARL... Read More →
avatar for Glencairn Crystal Studios

Glencairn Crystal Studios

SPIRITS INDUSTRY EXPERTSAs producers of the iconic Glencairn whisky tasting glass as well as special bottlings & decanters, our family has been supplying the spirits industry with creative, premium, quality glassware for over thirty years. We are proud to work with great whisky companies... Read More →
GA
avatar for Gosling's Rum
avatar for Graton Distilling Co.
avatar for Greenhook Ginsmiths

Greenhook Ginsmiths

Makers of fine, Vacuum-distilled Gins in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
avatar for HPS Epicurean
avatar for J.P. Wiser's
avatar for Laird's
avatar for Lasserre Honey Cognac

Lasserre Honey Cognac

This beautiful French bottle design has the name LASSERRE engraved in 24K Gold... The "Fluer de Lis" symbol is a representation of French Royalty and in that sense is said to signify perfection, light, and life... LASSERRE is made with 99% of natural ingredients. This drink is the... Read More →
avatar for Ledger's Tonic
avatar for Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky

Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky

Lot No.40 the hidden gem of Canadian Whisky is expertly distilled in small batches using only the finest locally sourced ingredients. By distilling in a single copper pot still, the result is a whisky that starts off earthy and woody tasting and then becomes full bodied and complex... Read More →
avatar for Lyon Distilling Co.

Lyon Distilling Co.

Lyon Distilling Company is proud to be a micro, craft distillery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Dedicated to transforming raw ingredients into splendid liquor, step by step, in ultra small batches. Rum & Whiskey.
avatar for Maraska
avatar for Master's Selection Gin
avatar for Mezcal Marca Negra
avatar for Mezcal Viejo Indecente

Mezcal Viejo Indecente

Mezcal Viejo Indecente gives you the key to unlock the door and be your other self.
avatar for Michter's Distillery
avatar for Mizu Shochu

Mizu Shochu

Handcrafted in the traditional way, Mizu Shochu is single distilled from two-rowed barley, black koji rice, and the pure, famous waters of Black Hair Mountain. At 70 proof it is more concentrated, like shochus of old, to enhance the subtle complexities, body and finish. It is also... Read More →
avatar for New Columbia Distillers

New Columbia Distillers

The first distillery in Washington DC since prohibition, making four gins, Summer Cup along with some pet projects. Rye Whiskey on its way soon.
avatar for New Holland Artisan Spirits

New Holland Artisan Spirits

After over a decade of craft-brewing, distilling was a natural extension for us. As perpetual students of fermentation, the art of creating alcohol, the next step of distilling into a more pure state, came easy. We coax flavor all the way from the brewhouse through our Prohibition-era... Read More →
avatar for Old New Orleans Rum
avatar for Papa's Pilar Rum

Papa's Pilar Rum

Papa’s Pilar Rum is an award-winning premium sipping rum, crafted with the Hemingway family and inspired by Papa’s spirit for adventure. Sourced from hand-selected rums spanning the Caribbean, U.S. & Central America, our artisan-crafted spirit is solera aged and blended in American... Read More →
avatar for Paris Gourmet
avatar for Plantation Rum

Plantation Rum

Alexandre Gabriel is a man with a singular focus from which he has not wavered in the 20 years he has been the head of esteemed Maison Ferrand. His focus and philosophy are simple – to produce special, unique spirits, gems so distinctive and revolutionary that they set the bar for... Read More →
avatar for Plymouth Gin

Plymouth Gin

Produced since 1793 at Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England, Britain's oldest distillery. A distinctive style of gin that by law can only be produced in Plymouth. The over 200 year-old recipe is perfectly balanced blend of seven botanicals: juniper berry, coriander, lemon... Read More →
avatar for Polugar
avatar for Preiss Imports
avatar for Prichards Distillery, Inc.
avatar for Prohibition Distillery
avatar for Pusser's Rum

Pusser's Rum

Pusser’s Rum Ltd. bottles, blends and distributes the original Royal Navy rum—one of the most historic and traditional rums still available today. Pusser’s Rum Admiralty range is a blend issued from 5 different stills located in Guyana and Trinidad. Each marque is hand-selected... Read More →
avatar for Rebecca Creek Distillery
avatar for Rhum Clément

Rhum Clément

Since 1887, the development of the prestigious Rhum Clement is in the purest tradition and inherited according to the rules of Homer and Charles Clement.
avatar for Rhum Damoiseau

Rhum Damoiseau

Rhum Damoiseau has been crafting distinctive rums for over 70 years on the island of Guadeloupe in the French West Indies.
avatar for Rhum JM

Rhum JM

For Four generations Rhum JM has been producing exceptional estate-grown sugarcane rhum.
avatar for Sandeman Port

Sandeman Port

Sandeman Port
avatar for Sibona

Sibona

Sibona is situated in the Roero zone, in the communal district of Piboesi d’Alba, a few ­miles from Alba. It was founded approximately one hundred years ago on the former premise of an old kiln. The distillery is located in the center of an important wine zone, where the most typical... Read More →
avatar for The Walter Collective

The Walter Collective

The Walter Collective was formed to create unique spirits. By using distinct and exceptional ingredients and by partnering with forward-thinking craft distillers, we’re able to create spirits that both honor tradition and bring new sensations to the palate.These are small-batch... Read More →
avatar for Topo Chico
avatar for Tropical Foods
avatar for Tuthilltown Spirits

Tuthilltown Spirits

Tuthilltown Spirits Farm Distillery is New York’s first whiskey distillery since prohibition, distilling some of America’s most prized spirits here in the Hudson Valley.
avatar for Two James Spirits

Two James Spirits

Two James Spirits is proud to be the first licensed distillery in the City of Detroit since Prohibition. At Two James, our passion lies in creating small, handcrafted batches of premium spirit, using locally sourced ingredients that highlight Michigan’s diverse agricultural abundance... Read More →
avatar for US Medallions Custom Coins

US Medallions Custom Coins

US Medallions - Industry coin supplier and creator of the Beer, Wine and Spirits Challenge coin and new patent pending Spinning Party Coin.
avatar for Vias Imports Ltd.

Vias Imports Ltd.

Vias Imports Ltd., established in 1983, represents the most comprehensive portfolio of Italian wines in the United States. Our portfolio highlights a vast array of over 200 native indigenous varietals that embody the distinct character and terrain of each of Italy’s diverse regions... Read More →
avatar for Vision Wine and Spirits
avatar for Whitley Neill Gin

Whitley Neill Gin

WHITLEY NEILL is a handcrafted gin of exceptional quality inspired by the vivid beauty and mystery of Africa, and a never-ending drive for perfection.Distilled in small batches by Johnny Neill, a direct descendant of Thomas Greenall and the last in a long line of distillers, WHITLEY... Read More →

Thursday July 21, 2016 5:30pm - 7:30pm CDT
Sheraton New Orleans
  Special Events, Happy Hour
 
Friday, July 22
 

10:00am CDT

Bespoke Gin & Collaborative Distilling
Feedback Survey
Custom-made gins created exclusively for certain bars are becoming more frequent. There are also more inter-distillery collaborations than ever before and the dawn of the guest distiller is bringing ‘Gypsy Brewing’ culture into the world of spirits. In this specialist 12 sample gin tasting, you will find out what’s driving this trend, who is doing it and what has been made so far. You will learn about how cross-proliferation of distilling knowledge is crucial for brand owners and distillers alike along with how it helps them to remain innovative. Lastly, you will also gain valuable insight into the impact it can have on customer retention for the end retailers, bar owners and distilleries who have embarked on these projects so far. Hosted by Gin Foundry, the session is a unique chance to get a 360% view on how “custom-made” works for all parties involved, how best to start a juniper-laced collaboration and what the future holds for this exciting recent development in craft distilling.
Moderators
avatar for Olivier Ward

Olivier Ward

Co-founder and Editor, Gin Foundry
Since its launch in 2013, Gin Foundry has become one of the most authoritative and influential website on Gin. It has amassed one of the largest and most in-depth repositories of information about Gin online. Gin Foundry’s readers turn to the website to read in-depth brand reviews... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Cameron MacKenzie

Cameron MacKenzie

Founder/Distiller, Four Pillars Distillery
Before throwing my lot into the production of craft spirits, I was a fifteen year veteran of the wine trade having made, sold, marketed and judged some really wonderful wines. Australia has some rare and unique botanicals and I am fascinated in how well they work in craft gin pr... Read More →
avatar for Emile Ward

Emile Ward

Co-Founder, Gin Foundry
Emile is the engineer behind Gin Foundry's operations in addition to being responsible for its bespoke projects, social media, SEO and e-commerce platform and generally keeps the wheels turning. Emile's commercial understanding, harnessed by his expertise in advertising and his unique... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

10:00am CDT

Creating Cocktail Culture In Small Cities
Feedback Survey
A thriving cocktail culture is no longer the bastion of big cities. How do you create a cocktail culture in a city with obstacles such as population density, social media, education and isolation? The panel has worked tirelessly to create one in their respective cities and we will show you the methods behind creating something special in your city. The methods will be able to be applied to other small markets but may also give new tricks of the trade to big city bartenders that may not have been thought about before with real world financial returns.
Moderators
avatar for Shawn Soole

Shawn Soole

Principal/Owner, S2 Hospitality Concepts
Victorian Bon Vivant at large, Shawn has been behind two of Canada's most nominated and awarded restaurant & bars. Multiple Tales of the Cocktail nominated Clive's Classic Lounge, as founder of Little Jumbo & Author of Cocktail Culture. Shawn's goals are to help continuing to put... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Brendan Brewster

Brendan Brewster

Brendan Brewster was a journeyman of bartending, travelling and experiencing many bar cultures the world over from a young age. He was instrumental in helping creating and evolving the culture in Edmonton and mentoring many young bartenders in Calgary and the world over. The Big Bear... Read More →
avatar for Bradford Knutson

Bradford Knutson

 Bradford Knutson is currently a bartender at Dillinger’s Cocktails and Kitchen in Olympia, WA. He is also working parttime as a liquor representative for American Northwest Distributors, and proudly representing Geranium and Old English gins in the U.S. as the national brand ambassador... Read More →
avatar for Oron Lerner

Oron Lerner

Owner, French57
Oron is the owner and bartender of the newly opened French57 bar in Tel Aviv, bringing New Orleans vibes to the middle east, paying homage to the cocktails originating from New Orleans past and present and to the French 75 bar specifically. Before the French57 bar, Oron helped... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Hammer & Son and Sacred Micro Distillery

Hammer & Son and Sacred Micro Distillery

The two UK based miro distilleries, Hammer & Son and Sacred, have teamed up in the United States, sharing sales and distribution. Through Park Street in New Jersey and California, their highly awarded products are available at import prices: Geranium Gin, Old English Gin, Saced Gin... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

10:00am CDT

Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin: Part 1
Feedback Survey
Led by Keli Rivers, Ginnoisseur at Whitechapel San Francisco, this three part seminar experience of war, conquest, and adventure will go over everything you know and thought you knew about Genever, Gin, and then some. At the end of these three seminars you'll receive a Certificate of Membership to the Mother's Ruin Reform Society along with our official secret hand shake! PART 1- What Pliny the Elder Knew and Daniel Defoe Wanted You to Forget. From the earliest days of medicinal juniper wines to the globetrotting adventures of the Dutch East Indies Company see how gin began it's inexorable rise to prominence.

Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin is a 3 part series, and is sold as one package.  
Moderators
avatar for Keli Rivers

Keli Rivers

Ginnoisseur, Whitechapel
GIN! All of the gin! New gin, old gin, gin from far and wide. Gin I need in my life, gin I need in my mouth right now!

Speakers
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.
avatar for Myriam Hendrickx

Myriam Hendrickx

Master Distiller, Rutte Distillateurs sinds 1872
Since 2003 I’m with Rutte; for me the opportunity of a life time as I could put all this knowledge and fascination into action. The Rutte name stood for exceptional quality, while in the distillery time had truly stood still. I was lucky enough to spend time with the last generation... Read More →
avatar for Tess Posthumus

Tess Posthumus

Tess Posthumus is a freelance hospitality professional, bartender at Door 74 & the occasional cocktail blogger. She writes about her genever research for different media and coming June her book 'Cocktails with Tess' will be in stores across the Netherlands.
avatar for Anthony Pullen

Anthony Pullen

Trade Advocacy Manager, Bulldog Gin
Anthony has been involved with the world of juniper for over 10 years. His career starting with the Lucas Bols company in Amsterdam and was involved in the (re)launch of Bols Genever globally. In 2010 he moved to the US and became the national brand ambassador for the Lucas Bols... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Rutte

Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:00am CDT

Talking Rot: Rancio, Scotch and MADness
Feedback Survey
Rancio is one of the most prized, enigmatic, and least well understood aromas within aged spirits, only emerging after maturation in specific conditions for a prolonged period. Join Dave Broom [double Spirited Awards Winner 2015 for Best Cocktail and Spirits Writer, and Best New Spirits Book], Ryan Chetiyawardana [Spirited Awards Winner 2015 for Best New International Cocktail Bar] and extra special guest Arielle Johnson, flavor scientist and head of research at MAD in Copenhagen, for a journey into this little examined and mysterious flavour world. The class will look at rancio and other ‘elusive’ aromas through a tasting of cask samples and ultra-rare blends from The House of Walker. We’ll also delve into the molecular world of aging and highlight how functional thinking about flavor processes is being used as a creative tool, including at cutting-edge restaurants. This class will push the limits of flavour and technique to provide a new understanding of super-premium blends, cuisine and ways in which to open up a new area of compelling drinks.
Moderators
avatar for Dave Broom

Dave Broom

Dave Broom was born in Glasgow (Scotland) and has spent his working life in drink. He is chief engineer of www.scotchwhisky.com and writes for numerous international titles, including Whisky Advocate. He won Best Cocktail & Spirits Writer at the 2015 Spirited Awards. He’s written... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Arielle Johnson

Arielle Johnson

Dr Flavor & head of research at MAD, Restaurant Noma
I'm a flavour scientist who specializes in cuisine, drinks, and restaurant collaborations. I'm head of research at MAD, the food think tank and nonprofit founded by Rene Redzepi in Copenhagen. I work (mostly) out of a shipping container-turned-laboratory behind restaurant noma in... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Bartender, Owner, Dandelyan and Cub
Cocktail bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana goes by Mr Lyan, which is arguably easier to say. He opened his first bar, White Lyan, in London in 2013 as the first cocktail bar in the world to use no perishables; no fruit and even no ice. It was an exploration in sustainability, with much... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Johnnie Walker

Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:00am CDT

The Life of One Barrel
Feedback Survey
American Oak casks are the most used cask in maturation all over the world - Why? Barrels are crucial to spirit production when it involves maturation. It is extraordinary to think that one barrel can have influenced several vastly different spirits in its lifetime, and can also be in use for 50+ years. Barrels are usually discussed in plural form - and yet the journey of one single bourbon barrel is quite unique. Let’s follow the journey of an American Oak cask from its creation in Kentucky, the unique character that charring brings, and some of the laws that have shaped common practice. Meet Ger Buckley, the Master Cooper of Midleton Distillery, as he demonstrates the intricacies of hand making a timber container. A virgin cask at this point, we move on to the expertise of Don Livermore, Master Blender for Hiram Walker, as he discusses the scientific qualities maturation in virgin or refill casks bring. He is going to break down what is happening inside the cask and why a producer would choose to a cask at a certain point in its life. The symbiosis of barrel sharing based on geography, seasoning, and the wood constituents it gifts to the spirit inside is an ever changing dynamic relationship of wood and spirit. It would almost seems as though the cask would end its life there, but instead we follow it to Ireland where it will be used in Irish Whiskey production. 1st, 2nd, or 3rd fill use are employed at Midleton Distillery, and then we follow it to the next stop in the barrel journey: Rum. Alexandre Gabriel, President and Owner of Maison Ferrand will discuss the unique attributes continental and Caribbean aging has on rum production. Comparative brown spirits will be tasted to demonstrate the evolution of this cask’s life. At this point a barrel could be upwards of 15-20 years old, even older in many cases. Many of these casks are used until they fall to pieces, potentially having seen up to five spirits and a century of resting. Familiarizing oneself with the process one barrel can go through will bring deeper understanding to the importance of maturation. The journey is historical - a dialogue of *why* producers have chosen the barrels they have over the years, the laws that govern it, and spirit economies involved. This is a special perspective on the maturation process and how some spirits are unlikely connected.
Moderators
avatar for Jessamine McLellan

Jessamine McLellan

National Brand Ambassador for Midleton Whiskeys, Pernod Ricard
With a passion for flavor and innovation, Jessamine currently serves as the National Brand Ambassador for the Powers & Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey portfolio at Pernod Ricard.  Her role as National Brand Ambassador is to educate and showcase this unique portfolio of Irish Whiskeys... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Ger Buckley

Ger Buckley

Master Cooper, Jameson
“It may be an inanimate object, yet it has a personality – you feel a bond with it – it’s a living, breathing organism.”  So says our Master Cooper Ger Buckley, a self confessed tool obsessive and a man whose knowledge of wood spans both his personal and professional lives... Read More →
avatar for Ian Burrell

Ian Burrell

Host, The Rum Experience Co ltd
One of the most travelled figures within the drinks industry, the award winning “EduTainer”, has redefined the definition of an international spirits ambassador. An ex professional basketball player in the UK and international recording artist, he has now established himself as... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Don Livermore

Dr. Don Livermore

Master Blender, Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd
The Master Blender for one of North America's largest distilleries located in Windsor Ontario. Responsible for the following award winning whiskies: JP Wiser, Lot No 40, Pike Creek, Gooderham & Worts, and Hiram Walker. Don graduated from the University of Waterloo as a microbiologist... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Pernod Ricard

Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:30am CDT

Barista meets Barman: Coffee Cocktail Culture
Feedback Survey
What can Baristas learn from Bartenders and vice versa? Ever wondered the main difference between a cup of coffee made with percolation or cold pressing? Why do some styles of coffee pair with amaro, and others not?

Baristas carefully select the beans, grounding process and water to create morning libations vs Barmen that are looking for the best way to extract flavour from coffee beans through different techniques to boost their back bar spirit.

Join coffee guru Samuel Lewontin, GM of Everyman Espresso in NYC and discover the history of coffee, from Ethiopia to Turkey via Latin America and the evolution throughout the cocktail world and with Tristan Stephenson, author of the book: the curious barista, guide to coffee, dive into the world of coffee cocktails, from the Irish Coffee to the Espresso Martini and the Italian spirits expert explain Giuseppe Gallo, showcase the traditional caffe' corretto from Italy
Moderators
avatar for Giuseppe Gallo

Giuseppe Gallo

Founder & Director, ITALSPIRITS
The italian spirits expert Giuseppe Gallo is one of the world’s most respected mixologists, with an inherent passion for the drinks business and an inimitable source of knowledge and insight into the world of drinks. He has worked in almost every type of drinks and hospitality business... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Samuel Lewontin

Samuel Lewontin

General Manager, Everyman Espresso
Samuel has been working as a barista for over 15 years, and currently manages the nationally- and internationally-acclaimed Everyman Espresso in New York City. He has also seen considerable success in barista competition, winning the 2013 and 2015 Northeast Regional Barista Competitons... Read More →
avatar for Joe McCanta

Joe McCanta

Global Ambassador, Grey Goose Vodka
Joe McCanta is an expert on taste. And now, as Global Ambassador for GREY GOOSE vodka, he brings together a passion for great cocktails made from freshest ingredients and the creative skill of a master mixologist. A gifted jazz musician, Joe was raised in southern California before... Read More →
avatar for Tristan Stephenson

Tristan Stephenson

Author, The Curious Bartender, Fluid Movement
Tristan has been involved in the hospitality industry for 16 years, as a chef, waiter and bartender. After leaving Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant in 2007, Tristan took a role as a Brand Ambassador for the Reserve Brands Group, training bartenders and consumers on the delights... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Grey Goose Vodka

Friday July 22, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

10:30am CDT

Egg-scellence - The Story of Eggs in Bars & Cocktails
Feedback Survey
Whether as a bar snack or in a cocktail, the egg has been a staple in bars across the world for generations. Hear the story of the genesis of eggs in bars and cocktails, the tradition of the bar egg, learn about egg production and nutrition, the facts on egg contamination in cocktails! The best of and most unusual egg cocktails from around the world, how to utilize eggs in your bar and all things Flips, Sours, Nogs and Fizzs Join the NoMad’s Nathan O’Neill, and Nick Wright of Suffolk Arms, New York, who have both stood behind London’s and New York’s best bar making egg cocktails, as they join former Egg Farmer, Egg Enthusiast and Tullamore D.E.W. ambassador Tim Herlihy to discuss the egg’s impact on cocktail culture as they tell the story of eggs in bars and cocktails, as well as the panel’s favourite egg drinks from around the World Whether you are a Bartender, Fizz Fanatic, Flip Fiend, or Egg Enthusiast, this Egg-stravaganza will be the ultimate guide to everything Egg in bars and cocktails Expect a definitive answer on which came first: the chicken or the egg, plus many egg puns #TheEgg
Moderators
avatar for Tim Herlihy

Tim Herlihy

US Ambassador, Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey
As far as whiskey experts go, they don’t come more Irish True than Tullamore D.E.W. US Ambassador Tim Herlihy. Born and raised in Ireland, Tim began his whiskey career with the Cooley Distillery and has travelled to numerous distilleries across Ireland, Scotland, the US and beyond... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Nathan O'Neill

Nathan O'Neill

Head bartender, Nomad Bar, The Nomad Hotel
Having begun his career at a young age, Nathan O'Neill has gained a vast array of experiences from across the hospitality industry. Nathan has worked in venues including restaurants, gastro bars, pubs and nightclubs; and in 2010 was offered a chance to be part of and develop his skills... Read More →
avatar for Nick Wright

Nick Wright

Head Bartender, Suffolk Arms
Since his late teens, Nick has been working in all fields of the hospitality industry in New York and London. Nick moved to London in 2011 to work for the world renowned Rushmore group where he honed his bar tending skills. In the time working for the company, we went on to be head... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tullamore DEW

Friday July 22, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

12:15pm CDT

A Spirited Salon: Conversations with 6 Legendary Authors
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From cocktail manuals to mixology memoirs to historical spirits studies, there has never been so much great reading for a drinks lover to enjoy. Join us to hear six legendary authors read from their books. You'll receive a refreshing welcome cocktail to savor and get the chance to ask the participants questions. If you love reading and cocktails, don't miss this rare opportunity to mix and mingle with today's top writers.

Speaker Lineup:


  • Dave Broom

  • Wayne Curtis

  • Heather Greene

  • Philip Greene

  • Reid Mitenbuler

  • Matt Rowley

Moderators
avatar for Noah Rothbaum

Noah Rothbaum

Chief Cocktail Correspondent, The Daily Beast
Noah Rothbaum is The Daily Beast's Chief Cocktail Correspondent. He is also the author of the book The Art of American Whiskey: A Visual History of the Nation’s Most Storied Spirit, through 100 Iconic Labels (Ten Speed Press), which was published in the spring of 2015, and the associate... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dave Broom

Dave Broom

Dave Broom was born in Glasgow (Scotland) and has spent his working life in drink. He is chief engineer of www.scotchwhisky.com and writes for numerous international titles, including Whisky Advocate. He won Best Cocktail & Spirits Writer at the 2015 Spirited Awards. He’s written... Read More →
avatar for Wayne Curtis

Wayne Curtis

writer, Freelance
Wayne Curtis is the author of “And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails” (2006), a look at the long and ignoble history of America’s most reviled spirit. He’s also a contributing editor at The Atlantic magazine, where he wrote the “Drinks” column... Read More →
avatar for Philip Greene

Philip Greene

Consultant/Brand Ambassador, Papa's Pilar Rum, Hemingway Rum Co.
Philip Greene is an attorney, writer and cocktail historian.  He is Trademark and Internet Counsel to the U.S. Marine Corps, based at the Pentagon.  He is also one of the founders of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans.  He has presented at conferences, festivals... Read More →
HG

Heather Greene

Heather Greene is one of America’s leading whiskey experts, media’s newest “go-to” woman on the topic of brown spirits, and New York Times shortlisted author of Whiskey Distilled, A Populist Guide to the Water of Life on Viking Studio, an imprint of Random House Penguin... Read More →
avatar for Reid Mitenbuler

Reid Mitenbuler

Reid Mitenbuler is the author of Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America's Whiskey (Viking, 2015). His writing has appeared in The Atlantic, Slate, Salon, and Whisky Advocate, among other publications.
avatar for Matthew Rowley

Matthew Rowley

Author and Journalist, freelance
Matthew Rowley is the author of "Moonshine!" (2007) and the James Beard Award finalist "Lost Recipes of Prohibition: Notes from a Bootlegger’s Manual (2015)." A former board member of the Southern Foodways Alliance, Rowley has written for numerous publishers, magazines, and universities... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:15pm - 1:45pm CDT
Restaurant R'evolution
  Special Events

12:30pm CDT

Iron Amaro: The Ferrochina Category
Feedback Survey
Amaro, perhaps the hottest category in mixology right now, is a mansion with many rooms and one of those (almost forgotten) rooms contains the category of Ferrochina. These are china (cinchona) amaros originally created as medicinal tonics, and fortified with iron citrate. Generations of Italians grew up being fed a teaspoon of ferrochina for their health, and as a handy benefit, the iron citrate gives a delicious citrus edge to the amaro. Join Fulvio Piccinino, author of "Futurist Mixology" and the world's greatest expert on ferrochina, and award-winning spirits educator (also owner of only the second bottle of Ferrochina in the USA!) Philip Duff to unravel the fascinating history of this category. From its invention in the late 1800s in Rome to the proliferation of brands in the early 1900s, from the category's evolution in the last fifty years to become less of a medicine and more of a recreational amaro, from the calamitous decision of the world's largest spirits company to stop producing ferrochina (in Janaury 2015!), leaving just one brand existing today, you'll learn more than you thought you ever would about the category you didn't know existed until you started reading this description. And all this as you taste your way through the largest selection of (mostly extinct) ferrochinas ever assembled, including the only one known to still be in production, sponsor of the seminar, Ferro China Baliva. Attendees will receive a (printed) handout detailing ferrochina's place within the amaro category, a history of the ferrochina category written by Fulvio & Philip especially for Tales, and will thus be instant experts in one of the most delicious and authentic sub-sets of the mighty amaro category. No-one you know (unless you know a lot of aging Italians) has ever tasted ferrochina, and that's about to change! This would be (to our knowledge) the first seminar taught about the category, to any audience, ever.
Moderators
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.

Speakers
avatar for Fulvio Piccinino

Fulvio Piccinino

administrator / teacher, saperebere.com
Fulvio Piccinino was born in Turin in 1967. After working for a multinational brewery for many years, he moved behind the bar where his fascination with studying the products and mixed drinks began. In this context he has carried out in-depth studies on the Futurist polibibite, making... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Ferro China Baliva

Ferro China Baliva

Ferrochina was considered a health tonic, with digestive properties, as a supplement and good for your blood and a cure for malaria. Was consumed as a liqueur, aperitif, any time of the day and night. Ferrochina key ingredients are cinchona bark (Cinchona Succirubra) and iron ammonium... Read More →
avatar for Pallini S.p.A.

Pallini S.p.A.

Pallini Limoncello is a brand of traditional Italian lemon-flavored liqueur known as limoncello. It is produced in Italy by Pallini S.p.A. a family-owned and operated beverage company based in Rome, Italy. It is 26% alcohol by volume, 52 proof. The limoncello was introduced in 1999... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

12:30pm CDT

Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin: Part 2
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Led by Keli Rivers, Ginnoisseur at Whitechapel San Francisco, this three part seminar experience of war, conquest, and adventure will go over everything you know and thought you knew about Genever, Gin, and then some. At the end of these three seminars you'll receive a Certificate of Membership to the Mother's Ruin Reform Society along with our official secret hand shake! PART 2- Thomas Chamberlain, Phylloxera and the Birth of Cocktails OH MY! The second installment will journey from the Industrial Revolution and one Irishman (not Philip Duff) who changed Gin forever to how a noble experiment made gin glamorous and finally possibly answer that $10,000 question "Mom, why is it called Old Tom?"

Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin is a 3 part series, and is sold as one package.  
Moderators
avatar for Keli Rivers

Keli Rivers

Ginnoisseur, Whitechapel
GIN! All of the gin! New gin, old gin, gin from far and wide. Gin I need in my life, gin I need in my mouth right now!

Speakers
avatar for Jared Brown

Jared Brown

Master Distiller, Sipsmith Limited
Sipsmith Master Distiller Jared Brown made his first spirits at age ten after reading that early American colonists froze cider and lifted out the ice to concentrate the alcohol. As an adult (after a degree in hospitality from NYU, five years in operations at the Essex House Hotel... Read More →
avatar for Martin Cate

Martin Cate

Owner, Smuggler's Cove
avatar for Desmond Payne

Desmond Payne

Master Distiller, Beefeater Gin
Desmond’s impressive gin career began when he joined Seager Evans & Co, the Wine Merchants and Gin Distillers, in 1967. With his wine and spirit exams under his belt, it was here that he began to develop the tasting and nosing skills that are still so crucial to his work today. In... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Beefeater Gin
BG
avatar for Plymouth Gin

Plymouth Gin

Produced since 1793 at Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England, Britain's oldest distillery. A distinctive style of gin that by law can only be produced in Plymouth. The over 200 year-old recipe is perfectly balanced blend of seven botanicals: juniper berry, coriander, lemon... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

12:30pm CDT

Milk Punch Technique & History: Let's Clarify Together!
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Clarified Milk Punch is in the midst of its second historical revival, and most of the world has yet to experience it in either technique or spirit. Known to have been the preferred tipple of diplomats, royals and the everyday drinker alike, Milk Punch dates back to 17th century England. Now, with access to more diverse ingredients and advanced technology, the quality of Milk Punch is better than ever! Centered on a demonstration of the entire clarification process that makes Milk Punch possible, you will not only learn this unique beverage’s historical relevance, but also taste true to form examples of it, and leave empowered with techniques to make your own!

#TOTCmilkpunch 
Moderators
avatar for Eamon Rockey

Eamon Rockey

General Manager, Betony
Eamon Rockey grew up in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the son of two professional chefs who sparked his passion for food and encouraged him to enter the kitchen. At age 14 he started working after school at Sakura, Hattiesburg’s only sushi restaurant at the time. He later attended the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Nicholas Edward Alexander

Nicholas Edward Alexander

Head Bar Tender, Betony
Easily excited about almost everything, interested in the world of beverages and food, and very focused on my professional betterment. Loves science fiction and horror movies, the beaches and forests of the northeast, and entertaining conversations.
avatar for Gareth Howells

Gareth Howells

Beverage Director, Forrest Point
Gareth was raised in Guildford, Surrey (United Kingdom) and has been involved in the Industry for over 20 years. Starting from humble beginnings washing dishes at his local country pub and has held numerous positions throughout both the back and front of house. Gareth started bartending... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for George Dickel Tennessee Whisky

George Dickel Tennessee Whisky

George Dickel is a superior, smooth sipping Tennessee Whisky because we make it by hand and value quality above all else – making it perfect for sipping on the rocks or enjoying in delicious cocktails.Tucked away in a small town outside of Nashville, Cascade Hollow has been the... Read More →
avatar for Leblon
avatar for Macchu Pisco

Macchu Pisco

Macchu Pisco is a family-owned business of 4 generations of Peruvian women who are dedicated to producing artisanal pisco while helping our community. Our Master Distiller, Melanie Asher, was named Pioneer of the Year in 2015 at Tales of the Cocktail and inducted into the Dame Hall... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Technique

12:30pm CDT

Time for the Vine: Wine-Based Cocktails
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It's been about 5000 years since grapes were crushed into drink. Temples have been constructed, gods dedicated, and wars waged over the nectar. Isn't about time we follow the advice of Homer to the "wine-dark sea" and drink? The ancients provide us with guidance, but we will share with you options to take your ready-made ingredient to new realms. Come join Jason and Meredith Nolley, two NYC industry vets, in teasing forth flavor so readily held in nearby bottles. We will touch on the aromatics of the first cocktails, the secret quinine held in the Piedmont hills, brewed rice concoctions of the Far East, the expectations of the Sherry barrel, and the impression of the the vintage. Our seminar will taste through five examples that prove not all ingredients are pre-ordained, although some certainly have the ingredients.
Moderators
avatar for Jason Nolley

Jason Nolley

Senior Wine Consultant, Vias Imports Ltd.
Born into the great wine state of Tennessee, Jason was first introduced to wine and vineyards as a kid during treks to visit his grandparents in Northern California. That, and how to perfectly craft his father’s Manhattans on Friday afternoons. After graduating in 1999 from the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Meredith Nolley

Meredith Nolley

Interior Designer, Aboff's
Meredith is a former Manhattan bartender and restaurant manager now residing in Long Island. A practicing Interior Designer and cocktail enthusiast, Meredith enjoys not only the science but also the practicality of inventive cocktails. Growing up around the world, Meredith has been... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

12:30pm CDT

What’s in my Drink…Beyond Flavors & Tastes
Feedback Survey
What’s in my Drink…Beyond Flavor & Taste? Reduces cocktails down to a sensorial level and explores how varying components beyond taste and flavor can affect the overall experience of a drink. We base our exploration around the use of ingredients that offer up varying perceived sensations, and examine their abilities to be manipulated, and in turn, how they influence the overall impact of a cocktail. The panel will highlight key sensory targets and the ingredients that bartenders have yet to fully harness to achieve affects consumers are not always fully cognizant of. We will examine chilies, and exotic culinary ingredients, but also go beyond with other resources that “trick” our perceptions, while subtly enhancing our sub-conscious connections with the drinks. Our expert panel will illustrate perspectives from flavor science and serve drinks reflecting the profiled sensation, along with a translated parallel drink from the bar science world in the areas of tastants, sensations and perceptions through the use of viable ingredients. The panel, led by flavor expert Derek Elefson and Sr. Flavorist, John Baughman, along with international award winning bartenders Ryan Chetiyawardana and Iain Griffiths of the esteemed White Lyan & Dandelyan bars in London, will look to further the audience’s knowledge into how sensations and perceptions can enhance, or even dull, particular flavors in different cocktails, as well as provide practical insights on processes and approaches that bartenders can utilize to capture these senses. So come and discover how tingling, warmth, numbing, lubricity & much more can enhance your cocktail designs.
Moderators
avatar for Derek Elefson

Derek Elefson

Beverage Director, Mane
Derek Elefson is a 12 year veteran within the beverage industry combining insights with his team’s approach to designing successful ideas for his clients, many of which are amongst the top 50 global beverage producers. As such, he is often invited to share his experiences and insights... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for John Baughman

John Baughman

Director, Flavor Creation, Mane, Inc.
John has been in the Flavor business for nearly 20 years. He is a classically-trained Senior Flavor Chemist with experience in beverage, sweet, and oral care applications. He obtained his B.S. in Biochemistry from Indiana University and a Masters in Business from Xavier University... Read More →
avatar for Iain Griffiths

Iain Griffiths

Business Manager, Mr Lyan Ltd
Iain Griffiths has been involved in the hospitality industry for over ten years. He has extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business from his experience in his native Australia where he not only oversaw the opening of several bars and clubs, but also the creative aspect of the... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan)

Bartender, Owner, Dandelyan and Cub
Cocktail bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana goes by Mr Lyan, which is arguably easier to say. He opened his first bar, White Lyan, in London in 2013 as the first cocktail bar in the world to use no perishables; no fruit and even no ice. It was an exploration in sustainability, with much... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for MANE Flavors

MANE Flavors

MANE is a fifth generation, privately held flavor and fragrance company with operations spanning over 45 countries. As a global leader in natural flavor essences, extracts, and flavors, MANE prides itself on designing distinguished flavor solutions for our clients and ultimately consumers... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

1:00pm CDT

Abbott's Bitters: History & Formula
Feedback Survey
Abbott's Bitters was the second most popular bitters in the United States in the 1800s and was said to be the original bitters in the Manhattan Cocktail. By the 1950s, the Abbott's brand had all but disappeared, except for a few vintage bottles collected on eBay. The vintage bitters are exceptional, but is the Abbott's formula truly lost? In 2009, Darcy O'Neil discovered a bitters recipe from the 1860s with the signatures of two Abbott's. Coincidence? Possibly, but to truly answer the question a four-year research project began, culminating in a trip to the Caribbean to harvest a rare bark off trees in a tropical jungle to reproduce the recipe. This presentation will detail all of the research, including genealogy to determine who the Abbott signatories on the recipe were and if they were related to C.W. Abbott, detailed newspaper and historical document searches as well as using old marketing material and court cases will all be used to provide clues to solve this mystery. All of the information will be presented, including the recipe and the source, which has dozens more historical bitters recipes. A tasting of the bitters and a few cocktails made with Abbott's Bitters will be provided. The source of the recipe will be of great interest to people in the industry as it will open up a whole new resource for research and development of bitters, ingredients, and cocktails.
Moderators
avatar for Darcy O'Neil

Darcy O'Neil

Art of Drink
Darcy S. O'Neil was born in Sarnia, Ontario (Canada) and spent many of those years living near the beach. A cold Canadian beach, but a beach none-the-less. After high school, the decision of a career choice was whittled down to chemistry or the culinary arts. Chemistry was the winner... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Fee Brothers

Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

1:00pm CDT

Elevating the Dive Bar
Feedback Survey
Dive bars, Old Man bars, Neighborhood bars. Whatever you call them, our everyday joints are an endangered species, and many that remain are learning that they must adapt their culture and offerings to an evolving clientele or risk losing younger drinkers who expect a well-made cocktail when choosing where to spend their money. Updating a dive bar, especially one with an established culture and storied past, is a delicate proposition. It requires a healthy respect for the past, and a deft hand at interpreting modern cocktail and spirits culture through the lens of the specific people and place in which the change is to occur. How far down the rabbit hole can a joint descend if it is known for bad beer and cheap shots? How to get an established clientele to try new things, and new cocktail drinkers to participate in an existing bar's culture? Can you open a regular joint that offers amazing spirits and thoughtful cocktails? To discuss this and many other questions, we have assembled a panel of respected bar professionals from around the world who have figured out how to strike the balance between looking to the future and honoring the past.
Moderators
avatar for Michael Neff

Michael Neff

Bar Director, Holiday Cocktail Lounge
Michael J. Neff, a 20-year craft cocktail veteran, bartender and entrepreneur, is currently Bar Director at Holiday Cocktail Lounge, the newly-restored haunt of Madonna, Sinatra, Keith Richards and Trotsky. Featured in media across the country as a cocktail haven with dive-bar sensibilities... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Alastair Burgess

Alastair Burgess

Organiser, Happiness Forgets
ALASTAIR BURGESS Alastair Burgess is the owner of renowned London cocktail bars Happiness Forgets and Original Sin. He has worked in the business for nearly 20 years and is considered one of the first people to open a New York style cocktail bar in Europe. He has become a voice for... Read More →
avatar for Mike Miller

Mike Miller

Owner, Delilah\'s
I own Delilah's, Chicago's premiere cavern tavern, for the past 22 years. We carry over 1000 spirits including 800 Whiskeys. I judge booze for Tastings/BTI as well as a number of other specialty events. I throw a party for a living, let's talk.
avatar for Damian Windsor

Damian Windsor

Beverage Director, Cocktails & Dreams LLC.
Juggling many hats as Bartender at Roger Room, Beverage Director at Westbound and partner at Church Bar. Damian has lived and worked in Canberra, Sydney, New York, Toronto, New York again, Miami and Los Angeles. I have rounded out the life experience with a Wife, 2 kids, a Cat... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Brooklyn Gin
avatar for Heaven Hill

Heaven Hill

America's largest family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer, Heaven Hill Brands has grown beyond its traditional roots as a Bourbon distiller to become the country's seventh largest overall distilled spirits producer and marketer with a portfolio of well-known... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

3:00pm CDT

#SEDTalks: Bars & Brands Edition
Feedback Survey
#SEDTalks , Tales of the Cocktail's TED Talks (but centered around Spirits, Education & Development of the mixology community) are back! #SEDTalks is ground-breaking new information and new perspectives, presented by the sharpest minds in our industry for no more than 15 minutes each. #SED Talks: Bars & Brands Edition is a 90-minute slot comprising 6 talks, ranging from why London hotel bars are cool to psychological priming & visibility in the on-trade, and from how savvy bars use social media effectively to how to crowdfund your brand (presented by someone why raised $45,784 in less than a month on Kickstarter). Join us! (And don't miss our sister session, #SEDTalks: Cocktails, Spirits & The Bartender Edition).

#SED Speakers:

  • Rebekkah Dooley: The Tipping Point - Mapping the Trends of London Bars

  • Audrey Fort: Naming 101 for Bars, Brands & Companies

  • Oron Lerner: Priming & Visibility In The On-Trade

  • Naomi Levy: Money - Not a Four-Letter Word

  • Sarah Lohman: Distilling Brooklyn

  • Carin Luna-Ostaseski: How to Crowdfund Your Beverage Project 

Moderators
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.

Speakers
avatar for Rebekkah Dooley

Rebekkah Dooley

Head of Bar Communications, London Edition
I am the Head of Bar Communications at London Edition, working primarily with the Punch Room team but also Berners Tavern and Lobby Bar. I founded The London Sessions last year, and I do freelance work for London bars including Peg + Patriot. I worked at Callooh Callay for 6 years... Read More →
avatar for Audrey Fort

Audrey Fort

Co-Founder, The Rooster Factory
A multilingual globetrotter, bon vivant, cocktails lover, Audrey is a worthy overseas representative of the French Art de Vivre. With a Masters degree in English, Russian and international trade under her belt, she spent a first decade exporting and managing French luxury goods such... Read More →
avatar for Oron Lerner

Oron Lerner

Owner, French57
Oron is the owner and bartender of the newly opened French57 bar in Tel Aviv, bringing New Orleans vibes to the middle east, paying homage to the cocktails originating from New Orleans past and present and to the French 75 bar specifically. Before the French57 bar, Oron helped... Read More →
avatar for Naomi Levy

Naomi Levy

Naomi Levy is one of Boston’s most promising young bartenders. Starting at the age of 17, she was hooked by the pace and rhythm of restaurant service and drawn to the drama and challenges of the bar. In 2008, Naomi was part of the opening team at Hungry Mother, where she remained... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Lohman

Sarah Lohman

Four Pounds Flour
Dubbed an “historic gastronomist,” Lohman recreates historic recipes as a way to make a personal connection with the past. She chronicles her explorations in culinary history on her blog, FourPoundsFlour.com, and her work has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street... Read More →
avatar for Carin Luna-Ostaseski

Carin Luna-Ostaseski

Founder and CEO, SIA Scotch Whisky
My passion is Scotch Whisky. I love introducing friends and strangers to this delicious spirit. I love that it's a sit-down and have a conversation kind of a drink, reminds us to go slow and enjoy the time. I created SIA Scotch Whisky as a way to introduce my friends to an approachable... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →
avatar for Tropical Foods

Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, #SEDTalks

3:00pm CDT

Carbon, the Building Block of Spirits and Cocktails
Feedback Survey
From charred barrels to tiny bubbles, learn how carbon not only purifies spirits, but how it also contributes to flavor. Join Golden Spirit Award winner Ian McLaren, Beverage Scientist Ned Popovic and cocktail innovator and Bacardi Ambassador Juan Coronado to take this journey through an Organic Chemistry lesson incorporating the principles of Carbonation, how Carbon plays an important part in the spirit production process, and how atomic number 6 can be incorporated into cocktails.
Moderators
avatar for Ian McLaren

Ian McLaren

Director Trade Advocacy & Training, Bacardi USA
A proud Scotsman, Ian started his career in the alcohol business straight from school working for an independent wine merchant in his home town of Edinburgh. From here his formative years in the On Premise were spent in the late night scene working in more sticky floored nightclubs... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Juan Coronado

Juan Coronado

Founder, The Pour Group
With 20+ years in the food and wine industry, Juan Coronado has established his name as an award-winning mixologist and entrepreneur, which began in Champagne as a Sommelier for the prestigious Bubble Lounge NY/SF. Along with his impeccable knowledge of wine, he also served as an... Read More →
avatar for Ned Popovic

Ned Popovic

R&D Beverage Scientist, Bacardi Martini Product Development
Ned is a Mad Scientist with strong passion and technical savvy in everything beverage science, processing, innovation, technology and advocacy are just a few of the fields he excels at while working at Bacardi-Martini Product Development. Often confused as the "Russian", he is actually... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

3:00pm CDT

Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin: Part 3
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Led by Keli Rivers, Ginnoisseur at Whitechapel San Francisco, this three part seminar experience of war, conquest, and adventure will go over everything you know and thought you knew about Genever, Gin, and then some. At the end of these three seminars you'll receive a Certificate of Membership to the Mother's Ruin Reform Society along with our official secret hand shake! PART 3- The Fall and Rise of "Flavored Vodka" When Michel Roux took gin to Code Blue, it ushered in a revolution of contemporary gins and gin styles. Discover the wild world of everyone who followed.



Juniper Ascending! The Epic Tale of Gin is a 3 part series, and is sold as one package. 
Moderators
avatar for Keli Rivers

Keli Rivers

Ginnoisseur, Whitechapel
GIN! All of the gin! New gin, old gin, gin from far and wide. Gin I need in my life, gin I need in my mouth right now!

Speakers
avatar for Simon Ford

Simon Ford

Cofounder, FORDS GIN
Cocktail bars and Gin
avatar for Alexandre Gabriel

Alexandre Gabriel

President and Owner, Maison Ferrand
Alexandre Gabriel was born and raised in France, on a farm in southern Burgundy near the medieval town of Cluny, where his grandfather taught him how to make wine and distill spirits. Twenty-five years ago Alexandre Gabriel came upon an ancient Cognac house and built it into what... Read More →
avatar for Arne Hillesland

Arne Hillesland

Ginerator, Distillery No. 209
Arne Hillesland is a Bay area native who embodies the Renaissance nature of many of those who inhabit this unique city. Prior to morphing into a world-class master distiller, a.k.a. Ginerator, this amateur chef and saxophonist took a twenty-year journey through Silicon Valley and... Read More →
CK

christian krogstad

Founder and Master Distiller, Aviation American Gin
As founder and master distiller of independently owned and operated House Spirits Distillery, Christian Krogstad is one of the visionaries behind America’s craft distilling resurgence. Krogstad established House Spirits Distillery in 2004, bringing together his experience as a... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Aviation American Gin

Aviation American Gin

Aviation American Gin is an invitation to explore America’s world-renowned cocktail culture. Inspired by the golden era of the American cocktail, pot distilled in small batches from gluten free American grain and natural botanicals from around the globe, Aviation shines in both... Read More →
avatar for Citadelle Gin

Citadelle Gin

Alexandre Gabriel, president of Maison Ferrand, guided by his interminable quest to create fine spirits, set out in 1997 to create one the world’s finest Gins – and he truly means to give Gin a capital G. At the time, gin had largely become an industrial, mass-produced trendy... Read More →
avatar for Distillery No. 209

Distillery No. 209

Registered Distillery No. 209 was established in St. Helena, California in 1882. It was the 209th distillery permitted in the United States, hence our name. Recreated in 2005, this artisanal, modern-styled gin is created from start to finish by one person, with a distinctive aromatic... Read More →
avatar for Fords Gin

Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

3:00pm CDT

Spanish Vermouth: Dark Horse of Aperitif
Feedback Survey
Few may realize that Spain today has the highest per capita vermouth consumption in the world, a trend still growing well ahead of a nascent cocktail scene. Here vermouth is typically consumed on the rocks with olives and chips. And there’s probably no country with a more varied offerings: Spanish vermouths are often made with regional varietals and Mediterranean botanicals, and with some vastly differentiated production methods. To boot the finished product is quite often served on tap. Neither an imitation of French or Italian styles, it’s very much a marvel of its own. With almost a dozen Spanish vermouths now available in the United States, we’ll review their unique characters and potential for use in cocktails. Let vermouth experts Giuseppe Gallo, Eric Seed, and François Monti, author of a groundbreaking book on vermouth, tell you all about the history, the production methods and the culture behind the vermouths of Spain.
Moderators
avatar for Giuseppe Gallo

Giuseppe Gallo

Founder & Director, ITALSPIRITS
The italian spirits expert Giuseppe Gallo is one of the world’s most respected mixologists, with an inherent passion for the drinks business and an inimitable source of knowledge and insight into the world of drinks. He has worked in almost every type of drinks and hospitality business... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Francois Monti

Francois Monti

Author & Journalist
François Monti is a Belgian cocktails and spirits writer who has been living in Madrid since 2009. He was one of the writers for French magazine Ginger (Spirited Awards finalist for Best Publication in 2014). His personal blog, Bottoms Up, available in both French and Spanish, is... Read More →
avatar for Eric Seed

Eric Seed

Principal, Haus Alpenz LLC
Eric Seed is the Founder and Principal of Haus Alpenz, an importer, distributor and brand manager for a wide range of wines and spirits. Established in 2005, Haus Alpenz is recognized for reviving a number of historic and important classic drinks components such as Creme de Violette... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Lustau

Lustau

A huge range of exceptional Sherry wines, vermouth and brandies, endorsed by outstanding ratings and medals in international competitions confirms Lustau as the benchmark of quality when talking about Sherry. In 2012 Lustau was the Spanish winery to take most international awards... Read More →
avatar for Martinez Lacuesta

Martinez Lacuesta

Exceptional vermouth starts in the vineyard. Timely care and attention to the vines is necessary to ensure the base wine, the skeleton of any vermouth, is of the highest standard. As a renowned Rioja winery founded in 1895, Martinez Lacuesta has the vineyards, grapes and production... Read More →
avatar for Miro Vermut de Reus
avatar for Petroni

Petroni

St. Petroni: Only on Earth. Red Vermouth Albariño on lees & WormwoodSt. Petroni is produced following a careful selection of best vintages of Albariño grapes. To do this, we assure that the final production is obtained from an área spoliled by its unique microclimate, placed in... Read More →
avatar for Yzaguirre

Yzaguirre

Between Tarragona and Reus (vermouth de Reus), in the heart of Camp de Tarragona (Tarragona land), the region where the first vermouth producers in Catalonia-Spain appeared at the end of the 19th century, the family Salla-Solé produces in their cellar, the CELLER SORT DEL CASTELL... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

3:00pm CDT

The Cocktail Crystal Ball: Drinking in 2116
Feedback Survey
The origins of the cocktail date back centuries—but what does the future hold? Will the cocktail bar of 2116 be more Jetsons or Soylent Green, or will it largely resemble the bar of today? This session will look at the future trajectory of the cocktail, with an eye to what drinks may genuinely look like a century from now. How will technological advances in distillation, culinary science and the bar itself influence the future cocktail? How will shifts in demographics, the tumult of global politics, and a booming population affect the cocktail bar? And how will the effects of climate change play out across the drinks world, from the agricultural inputs and aging process of spirits, to the availability and adaptability of fresh fruit and other ingredients in a hotter world? Join this panel of experts for a look into cocktail’s crystal ball, as we go back (bar) to the future for a drink in 2116.
Moderators
avatar for Paul Clarke

Paul Clarke

Executive Editor, Imbibe
Paul Clarke is the executive editor of Imbibe magazine and the author of The Cocktail Chronicles (Spring House Press). A journalist who has specialized in spirits, cocktails and the culture of drink for nearly a decade, he has written for the New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dave Arnold

Dave Arnold

Dave Arnold grew up in the New York area and graduated from Yale University with a degree in philosophy. He began tinkering with restaurant equipment after earning his MFA from Columbia University’s art school. Initially he customized equipment for use in his art projects, but after... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Colliau

Jennifer Colliau

Owner, Small Hand Foods
Jennifer Colliau is known as a true craftswoman, recognized for her extensive historical knowledge and precise, scientific approach to cocktail creation. Educated as a woodworker with a BFA in Wood/Furniture from California College of the Arts, Colliau has attracted acclaim by bringing... Read More →
avatar for Alexander Rose

Alexander Rose

Executive Director, The Long Now Foundation
Alexander was hired in 01997 to build the 10,000 Year Clock with computer scientist Danny Hillis. Alexander speaks about the work of The Long Now Foundation all over the world at events ranging from the TED conference to NASA. He was an artist in residence at Silicon Graphics Inc... Read More →
avatar for Dave Smith

Dave Smith

Head Distiller & President of Vices, St. George Spirits
After stints as a teacher and in winemaking, Dave Smith joined St. George Spirits in 2005 upon realizing that he was spending a healthy portion of his salary on alcohol.Over the last 13 years, Dave has become an accomplished distiller with experience across St. George’s entire portfolio... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for St. George Spirits

Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

3:30pm CDT

Pre-New Orleans Cocktail Tour Happy Hour
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Pre-tour with Wyborowa Wódka! We’re all about a kick-off, so kick off your New Orleans Cocktail Tour of legendary history with Wybo, a genuine Polish rye vodka based on over 500 years of Polish Vodka craftsmanship.
Sponsors
avatar for Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa – Wybo for short – genuine Polish vodka, created in 1927 with over 500 years of Polish vodka craftsmanship.With quality highlighted by more than 20 international awards from around the world including Vienna, Rome, Brussels and San Francisco, the Pure Rye Grain combined... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

3:30pm CDT

Guilty Pleasure: Drink Better, Feel Better
Feedback Survey
According to some psychologists, not only are we motivated by hunger, thirst and sex, but our ‘forth drive’ could in fact be intoxication. Can the pleasure of drinking really be that primal? Does nature or nurture determine the types of drinks we reject or revere, and can we use nature to enhance our enjoyment, if only we understood it better? Which leads us to the question: why drink? What drives us to seek out a well-made cocktail, a cold beer or a glass of wine? Cocktail culture and the proliferation of premium wines, beers and spirits may improve the contents of our glass today, but human beings have been seeking new ways to enjoy intoxication for millennia. So what’s the universal appeal? Whether we are seeking pleasure, stimulation, relief or escape, the human desire to ‘feel different from normal’ is powerful and often controversial. So the question is this: if our quest for intoxication is entirely natural, can we use nature to feel better about the drinks we enjoy? Join Claire Smith-Warner & Iain Griffiths (White Lyan/Dandelyan) as we explore our primal urges, a universal thirst and Mother Nature’s wicked sense of humour. With the help of Ronald D. Siegal Phy.d (Assistant Professor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School and author of The Mindfulness Solution: Everyday Practices for Everyday Problems ) and Zoe Cormier (founder, Guerilla Science and author of Sex, Drugs & rock n Roll: The Science of Hedonism and the Hedonism of Science) we’ll discover the secrets of our ‘forth drive’; exploring why we sometimes feel as though only a cocktail will do, but most importantly understand how we can use nature to keep our spirits high, our brain happy and our body healthy. Want to get intoxicated with us? Well, it’s only natural…
Moderators
avatar for Claire Smith-Warner

Claire Smith-Warner

Head of Spirit Creation & Mixology, Belvedere Vodka
Claire Smith-Warner is Head of Spirit Creation at Belvedere Vodka and has been working with alcohol in its various forms for over 15 years. Committed to discovering new ways to drink ‘better’, Claire has developed a range of sugar free and 100% fresh fruit flavoured vodkas for... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Zoe Cormier

Zoe Cormier

Author & Presenter, Artists Partnership
I am an author, journalist, speaker and events producer with a background in biology. My first book, Sex, Drugs & Rock n’ Roll: The Science of Hedonism and the Hedonism of Science – hand-picked by The Guardian as a “must- read” – was published by Profile Books in August... Read More →
avatar for Iain Griffiths

Iain Griffiths

Business Manager, Mr Lyan Ltd
Iain Griffiths has been involved in the hospitality industry for over ten years. He has extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business from his experience in his native Australia where he not only oversaw the opening of several bars and clubs, but also the creative aspect of the... Read More →
avatar for Ron Siegel, PsyD

Ron Siegel, PsyD

Assistant Professor of Psychology (Part Time)/Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School/University of Massachusetts Medical School
Dr. Ronald D. Siegel is an Assistant Professor of Psychology, part time, at Harvard MedicalSchool, where he has taught for over 35 years. He is a long-time student of mindfulness meditation and serves on the Board of Directors and faculty of the Institute for Meditation andPsychotherapy... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Belvedere Vodka

Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

3:30pm CDT

The Life & Times of the Singapore Sling
Feedback Survey
Imagine selling 23,000 glasses of a single drink every month in one bar. Imagine doing that for years, decades. Jared Brown spent the last year researching the history and evolution of the Singapore Sling on behalf of Sipsmith Independent Spirits and Raffles Hotels. Brown ferreted out every reference to the drink in the Straights Times, Singapore’s main newspaper, from the 1860s up to modern day. Then he turned to every other available historic source he could find. He conducted extensive interviews. He met and drank with a number of the people involved in running this historic Southeast Asian hotel. He even created a bespoke gin tailored to fit this iconic drink, which is now available in Raffles Hotels worldwide. Come hear his fascinating discoveries and taste a selection of the steps in the evolution of the Sling (plus at least one other long-lost Singapore classic) as the Singapore Sling enters its second century and receives a much-needed overhaul.
Moderators
avatar for Jared Brown

Jared Brown

Master Distiller, Sipsmith Limited
Sipsmith Master Distiller Jared Brown made his first spirits at age ten after reading that early American colonists froze cider and lifted out the ice to concentrate the alcohol. As an adult (after a degree in hospitality from NYU, five years in operations at the Essex House Hotel... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Cherry Heering
avatar for Raffles Hotels & Resorts

Raffles Hotels & Resorts

For over 128 years Raffles has gone out of its way to give you the warmest welcome, the richest experiences and the fondest memories. And today the legend continues all around the world, from the classic colonial splendour of Raffles Singapore to Dubai, Cambodia, Seychelles, Paris... Read More →
avatar for Sipsmith Gin

Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

4:00pm CDT

New Orleans Cocktail Tour
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There’s a reason Tales of the Cocktail® calls New Orleans home—the city’s legendary bars and bartenders helped shaped how Americans drink. Join us as we explore the rich cocktail history of our city with a spirited romp through the French Quarter led by legendary tour guide, Joe Gendusa. We’ll start in Le Booze bar of the Royal Sonesta then head out as Joe shares tall tales of the famous bars, restaurants, people and cocktails that made New Orleans such a famous place to have a drink.

*First cocktail at Le Booze included. Cocktails available for purchase at bar stops.
Speakers
JG

Joe Gendusa

Gendusa is a New Orleans native and a respected teacher for 38 years. After his retirement, he joined forces with Tales of the Cocktail® founder, Ann Tuennerman, to start what is known today as New Orleans Original Cocktail Tour. Gendusa has also written a book entitled History With... Read More →

Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events
 
Saturday, July 23
 

10:00am CDT

An Exclusive Tasting of Rare Pierre Ferrand Cognacs
Feedback Survey
Pierre Ferrand Cognac – a portfolio of Cognacs from Maison Ferrand and Alexandre Gabriel from the Grande Champagne region of Cognac – is a rare jewel in the crown of Maison Ferrand, the house owned by Alexandre Gabriel for more than 25 years. What he has done with these jewels will mesmerize your taste buds. Join Alexandre and Cognac expert Doug Frost and taste your way through vintages like 1972 and 1975 to curated blends. And then we come to the ‘piece de resistance’ – the unveiling and first U.S. tasting of The Last Cask – 1914. In the winter of 1914, when their husbands had gone off to defend their country in World War I, the women of a little village in Grande Champagne got together to distill the wine made from the grapes harvested a few months earlier. This became the legendary Pierre Ferrand Vintage 1914. Yes, the Last Cask means just that. This is the last cask that will be bottled for the 1914 vintage. Some of the Cognacs you will taste have never before been seen in the U.S. as they are from a collector’s private stock. If you join us, we assure you this will be a Cognac savoring event you won’t soon forget.
Moderators
avatar for Doug Frost

Doug Frost

Managing Partner, Beverage Alcohol Resource
Doug Frost is a Kansas City author who writes and lectures about wine, beer and spirits. In 1991 he passed the rigorous Master Sommelier examination and two years later became America’s eighth Master of Wine. He was the second person in history to complete both exams and more than... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Alexandre Gabriel

Alexandre Gabriel

President and Owner, Maison Ferrand
Alexandre Gabriel was born and raised in France, on a farm in southern Burgundy near the medieval town of Cluny, where his grandfather taught him how to make wine and distill spirits. Twenty-five years ago Alexandre Gabriel came upon an ancient Cognac house and built it into what... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Pierre Ferrand Cognac

Pierre Ferrand Cognac

In the heart of the famous “Golden Triangle” in Grande Champagne lies the production of one of the world’s most venerated Cognacs, Pierre Ferrand Cognac. Not only is this Cognac considered the “Premier Cru de Cognac” but the house of Cognac Ferrand is lauded as a Grande... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

10:00am CDT

Bottom’s Up! The Birth of the Dry Shake, Last Word & Pin Up
Feedback Survey
Explore the real life of Ted Saucier, bon vivant, PR agent for the Waldorf Astoria & unknown Canadian legend. First to publish the Dry Shake, Last Word, Vodkatini & Hotel Georgia (made famous again in the renovated Hotel Georgia in Vancouver) Cocktails. How his underrated book from 1951 has reappeared and shown people the way into the modern age of cocktail bartending. We will also have an interview with Murray Stenson, the man behind bringing back the Last Word from obscurity; rescuing it from the dusty pages of  Bottom’s Up to become a cult classic and mainstay in any cocktail bar worth its salt. Why is the dry shake common practice in the modern age? How did the Last Word exist during prohibition? And how did so many obscure Canadian establishments sneak their cocktails into Saucier’s book? Explore the life behind this great cocktail pioneer with unknown history of his family life including the daughter no one knew he had; how he made his way from the streets of Montreal to New York, his friendships with everyone from movie stars to the King of Norway. This multi published author who wrote about war, movie credits, cocktails, of all things sardines and the introduction of beautiful pin ups into the world of cocktail books that would influence Playboy & Esquire cocktail books for years to come. The stories you know about this man are only the beginning on unravelling the true story behind him, his life and the cocktails he pioneered in bringing to the light.
Moderators
avatar for Solomon Siegel

Solomon Siegel

General Manager, Pagliacci's
Solomon was born and raised in the Victoria, BC restaurant world. He started bar- tending before he should have at his family’s joint, Pagliacci’s; he has now been bartending for 17 years. Solomon operated his eponymous establishment for 18 months, where Victoria’s cocktail... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Greg Boehm

Greg Boehm

President, Cocktail Kingdom
Since founding Cocktail Kingdom, the standard-bearer of bar-industry equipment worldwide and one of the catalysts of the craft cocktail movement, Greg Boehm has guided the progression of modern mixology by attentively sourcing and manufacturing the highest-quality barware to better... Read More →
avatar for Robyn Gray

Robyn Gray

Head Bartender, Rosewood Hotel Georgia
As a Native Canadian beginning his career as a barman in Glasgow, Scotland in 1998, he was immediately enamoured by the hospitality industry. Working in nightclubs, restaurants, cocktail lounges, and hotel bars along the way his passion for bartending and hospitality only continues... Read More →
avatar for Shawn Soole

Shawn Soole

Principal/Owner, S2 Hospitality Concepts
Victorian Bon Vivant at large, Shawn has been behind two of Canada's most nominated and awarded restaurant & bars. Multiple Tales of the Cocktail nominated Clive's Classic Lounge, as founder of Little Jumbo & Author of Cocktail Culture. Shawn's goals are to help continuing to put... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, General Interest

10:00am CDT

How Small Brands Can Play Big
Feedback Survey
Small suppliers and producers, including imports and craft brands, are able to dominate various markets and accounts even without the huge marketing budgets of the big brands. If you're a small brand and want to learn how it's been done (successfully and poorly) this is a seminar for you. You'll learn what to do and what not to do, and tips and tricks for playing ball when big suppliers generally dominate. This panel will be moderated by Danny Ronen of DC Spirits & also Liquid Kitchen, who spends his time working with small brands and big brands alike, both on a local and global level. Panelists include Dragos Axinte of Novo Fogo, a small brand making a name for itself; Allen Katz, owner at NY Distilling and Director of Spirits Education for Southern Wine & Spirits of NY, who will share stories from the small producer and big distributor perspectives; Ryan Malkin, principal attorney at Malkin Law, PA, who focuses his practice on alcohol beverage law, who will share how small brands can compete within the law.
Moderators
avatar for Danny Ronen

Danny Ronen

Founder / Director of Education, DC Spirits / Liquid Kitchen
Danny Ronen is involved in beverage development and concept ideation, product innovation and activation, staff training and education, as well as new bar set up and openings. Under his tutelage via DC Spirits and Kathy Casey's Liquid Kitchen, national and international properties such as the Fairmont and Raffles Hotels have honed their beverage programs to incorporate workplace efficiencies, including recycling, composting and energy use, which produce both cost savings and better environmental practices. Many of the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dragos Axinte

Dragos Axinte

CEO, Novo Fogo
Dragos Axinte believes that nothing worthwhile comes easy. He was born and raised in a communist dictatorship (Romania) where adversity was his best friend, moved to the U.S. with a handbag and a smile, built a consumer product company (ColdHeat) that quintupled its market category... Read More →
avatar for Dan Gasper

Dan Gasper

COO, Distill Ventures
Distill Venture's COO Dan, spent his first 7 years managing the relationship between large and small drinks businesses and a further 6 years working on 40+ small to medium businesses in a variety of different industries. A proud drinks business geek with a love for all the wild and... Read More →
avatar for Allen Katz

Allen Katz

Co-Founder, New York Distilling Company
Allen Katz is the co-founder of the New York Distilling Company in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he produces Dorothy Parker – American Gin, Perry’s Tot – Navy-Strength Gin, Chief Gowanus – New-Netherland Gin, Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye…and Ragtime Rye. He is also the Director... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Malkin

Ryan Malkin

Attorney, Malkin Law
Ryan Malkin is an attorney serving the alcohol beverage industry. Ryan is well versed in navigating the federal and state-by-state alcohol beverage laws, assisting clients large and small with industry specific agreements and crafting compliant marketing and sales programs. Prior... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Distill Ventures
avatar for New York Distilling Company
avatar for Novo Fogo

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Drinks Business

10:00am CDT

Talk With a Pro: Distiller's Edition #1
Feedback Survey
Distillation: Art? Science? Both? For this installment of the interview series which unites leading figures in our industry for candid, informative discussions, it's time to turn our focus to Distillers. John Georges, Master Distiller, Angostura Rums; Christian Krogstad, Founder and Distiller, House Spirits; Dave Pickerell, Master Distiller, Hillrock Distillery. Three different stories, three different approaches. We'll learn about the paths these Gentlemen have taken to get to where they are today, their backgrounds, their philosophies. Did they choose these particular spirits or did the spirits choose them? We'll hear what it's like to work for multiple brands, to be a hired gun - is there any room for your own creativity? What about being the main man for an iconic house in a category with very few restrictions - any pressure to maintain tradition? And when you start your own "craft" distillery and can do whatever you want - do you do just that? And what kind of training do you need anyway? We'll go beyond the tales and talk technique too. We'll learn how methods differ when making gin, rum, whiskey... We'll examine the stills, find out which type works better for which spirit, and why. Naturally, we'll have the opportunity to do some tasting as well. So whether you're an aspiring Distiller, a Bartender, an industry professional, or an enthusiastic imbiber, join us and learn more about how some of your favourite booze is made. Ask questions. You'll not only leave with insights into the paths of these distinctly different Distillers, but also clearer understanding of what distillation is and how it defines each spirit. In other words, you'll learn about the art, the science, and the magic of it all!
Moderators
avatar for ms. franky marshall

ms. franky marshall

Franky is a New York City hospitality industry veteran. Having worked as a Bartender and in various other front-of-house positions at establishments across the spectrum has given her a great deal of experience to draw on. She was introduced to this rarefied cocktail world when she... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for John Georges

John Georges

Master Distiller, Angostura
A native Trinidadian, John was educated at the University of the West Indies where he graduated with a BSc in Chemical Engineering. John joined Angostura in 1982 and has worked in many different roles in the production of fine rum.  In his own words, John has “been in and around... Read More →
CK

christian krogstad

Founder and Master Distiller, Aviation American Gin
As founder and master distiller of independently owned and operated House Spirits Distillery, Christian Krogstad is one of the visionaries behind America’s craft distilling resurgence. Krogstad established House Spirits Distillery in 2004, bringing together his experience as a... Read More →
avatar for Dave Pickerell

Dave Pickerell

Master Distiller Hillrock Estate Distillery, Hillrock Estate Distillery
An industry icon and the previous Master Distiller for Makers Mark, Dave directs Hillrock’s production and operations as Master Distiller. Dave has over 20 years of distillery industry experience and is respected world wide as one of the top Master Distillers and spirits experts... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Hillrock Estate Distillery

Hillrock Estate Distillery

Proud to be one of the few “field-to-glass” whiskey producers in the world, Hillrock Estate Distillery is the first U.S. distillery since before Prohibition to traditionally floor malt and hand craft whiskey on site from estate-grown grain. Hillrock’s whiskeys - Solera Aged... Read More →
avatar for House of Angostura

House of Angostura

The House of Angostura®
Capitalizing on its heritage as the world's most well-known maker of aromatic bitters, the House of Angostura® has catapulted into the 21st century with an exquisite range of rums, the magnificent Amaro di Angostura® and of course, ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters and ANGOSTURA® orange... Read More →
avatar for House Spirits Distillery

House Spirits Distillery

Founded in 2004 by Christian Krogstad, House Spirits Distillery is a leader of America’s craft distilling resurgence and the anchor of Portland, Oregon’s famed Distillery Row.  The company’s award-winning products include Aviation American Gin, Westward Oregon Straight Malt... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

10:00am CDT

The Seven Pillars of Classic Cocktails
Feedback Survey
How does Carbonic Acid change the balance of a ‘75 and a Collins? What is the trick to mastering brix in a variety of liqueurs in the Daisy? Why are bitters integral to a number of cocktails? Bartenders get caught up in the details when crafting dealers choice libations, which can slow them down during a shift. But what if there were seven formulas that provided the skeleton for an infinite number of cocktails? During this seminar, Bittercube co-founder Ira Koplowitz, alongside award winning bartender Marco Zappia and cocktail historian & author Matthew Rowley will touch on all the topics mentioned above and a number of others to provide concrete formulas, foolproof riffs and historical context for creating dealers choice libations in a pinch. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste a number of different pillar cocktails.
Moderators
avatar for Nicholas Kosevich

Nicholas Kosevich

Proprietor, Bittercube
Bittercube was founded by Nicholas Kosevich and Ira Koplowitz in 2009, and they began developing, formulating, and tweaking the lineup that is now the six varieties of Bittercube Bitters. The first larger batches began maceration in July of 2010, and since then the business has grown... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Ira Koplowitz

Ira Koplowitz

Proprietor, Bittercube
Ira Koplowitz worked for more than two years at the Violet Hour in Chicago where he developed a number of house-made syrups, tonics and bitters and contributed cocktails to more than a year's worth of seasonal cocktail menus. Beyond bartending, Koplowitz has traveled extensively... Read More →
avatar for Matthew Rowley

Matthew Rowley

Author and Journalist, freelance
Matthew Rowley is the author of "Moonshine!" (2007) and the James Beard Award finalist "Lost Recipes of Prohibition: Notes from a Bootlegger’s Manual (2015)." A former board member of the Southern Foodways Alliance, Rowley has written for numerous publishers, magazines, and universities... Read More →
avatar for Marco Zappia

Marco Zappia

Managing Partner, Bittercube
Marco Zappia dropped out of middle school because no one liked his haircut, was accepted into Stanford’s advanced placement program, promptly got into too much trouble and ran away from Palo Alto into the patchouli scented bosom of Berkeley, where he studied Sartre, Derrida, and... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bombay Sapphire

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Technique

10:30am CDT

Avoiding Theft in Bars
Feedback Survey
Are the majority of annual losses that result in bars often addressed to occupational hazards of a cash business or written off as five finger discounts? Other than intent, there's very little difference between a bottle of booze breaking in the well, it being consumed by the staff, or sold for cash and straight into somebody's pocket. From catching employee theft to employees drinking the bar dry, what are the clear indicators that can help you detect your systems falling by the wayside? When payroll taxes are high, allowing a bartender to supplement their income by a certain amount of "stealing" can be cheaper than paying them a higher salary, so who's really to blame? In addition to who is controlling the purse strings, even theft among partners can be a common denominator without clear advocacy for transparency. In this seminar we will discuss the different types of shortages associated with bars- employee/ owner theft, theft among partners, careless cash systems, and how they affect employee morale and the bottom line of your profit and loss statement and what can legally be done about it. In the end we are all one big happy family, but who's being held up with their hands in the air and who's got their hands in the cookie jar? A polygraph machine is available upon request.
Moderators
avatar for Philip Duff

Philip Duff

Director, Old Duff Genever
Director of Education for Tales of the Cocktail, bar & beverage consultant, founder of door 74 (Amsterdam), in-demand spirits educator, but I never talk about my work at the orphan dolphin sanctuary, do you hear? Never.

Speakers
avatar for Ivy Mix

Ivy Mix

Co-Owner and Head Bartender, Leyenda
Ivy Mix is Co­Owner and Head Bartender of Leyenda, her pan­Latin cocktail bar in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, backed by her long­time mentor, Julie Reiner. Leyenda pays tribute to her years of living and bartending in Guatemala, as well as extensive travels throughout all of Latin... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Topo Chico

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

10:30am CDT

How Much Are You Worth?
Feedback Survey
In a world where bartenders and bar-stars are becoming ambassadors and consultants at rocket speed, when would be a good time to broach the taboo subject of how much we should all get paid? The answer to that is NOW. This seminar will delve deep into the varied opinions of bartenders, ambassadors, and brand folk to determine whether we should be working for a fee, for cheap, or for free. Are there specific instances in which we should bite the bullet and donate our hard time and labor? Will working on the “freemium” model as it relates to social media allow a bartender/consultant the ability to “build their brand?” Is there an actual pay scale that we can follow to determine what our actual worth is to big brands when they hire us for gigs? What’s commonplace? What’s not? All of these questions - and more - will be answered by our esteemed panel of experts led by Moderator Jonathan Pogash: We will hear international and dissenting opinions on the subject from Justin Noel (Closing Time Cocktails, Espolon Tequila, Sweetwater Social), Diego Cabrera (Spain's Best Bartender and Consultant), and Pamela Wiznitzer (Seamstress NY, The Cocktail Guru Team)
Moderators
avatar for Jonathan Pogash

Jonathan Pogash

President/Owner, The Cocktail Guru
I am a father of 2, a husband to 1, and a mixer of drinks Jonathan Pogash, “The Cocktail Guru,” is an educator and cocktail consultant for restaurants and beverage brands. With offices in New England and NYC, Jonathan's signature cocktails can be seen and enjoyed in many of North... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Diego Cabrera

Diego Cabrera

Twist de Naranja
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1979. I live in Spain since 2001, and worked in 2004 at “Ritz Carlton” (Barcelona), in reference bar in the city. In 2007 I wrote the Cocktail book in the Grijalbo publishing house. In 2008, in Madrid, I worked with the two Michelin Star... Read More →
avatar for Justin Noel

Justin Noel

President/Owner, Closing Time Cocktails Inc.
With over ten years behind the stick, on 4 continents, in over 10 countries, Justin Noel is the epitome of a traveling bartender if there ever was one.  Justin started his bar career learning the flair game in the nightclub scene in New York and Europe, before moving on to learning... Read More →
avatar for Pamela Wiznitzer

Pamela Wiznitzer

Creative Director, Seamstress
Pamela Wiznitzer has a true passion and zest for the industry that is seen and tasted in every drink she serves and also transcends the bar. Since 2006, Pamela has been working throughout NYC, and most recently as the Creative Director and bartender at Seamstress on the Upper Eastside... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Cherry Heering
avatar for Legends Of Kremlin

Legends Of Kremlin

Oldest vodka from Russia 1430 Production- Still created in custom-made copper vats, adding to its distinctive texture and rich, smooth taste. A meticulous five-part distillation process using the highest quality filters made of marble, silver and platinum, producing an unrivaled... Read More →
avatar for Los Arango Tequila

Los Arango Tequila

Fraternity Spirits
Los Arango Tequila - The name "Los Arango" is in honor of Doroteo Arango, better known to history as "Pancho Villa", a famous revolutionary leader and one of Mexico's great heroes. Los Arango Tequila is expertly crafted at an 18th century hacienda distillery, and is dedicated to Pancho... Read More →
avatar for Tomintoul Whisky

Tomintoul Whisky

Angus Dundee Distillers
The Tomintoul-Glenlivet Distillery is a distillery in Ballindalloch, in the Speyside region of Scotland, producing malt whisky for blends and bottled as single malts. The distillery was founded in 1964. It doubled in capacity when two extra stills were installed in 1974, and started... Read More →
avatar for Xanté

Xanté

Xanté the Naughty Side of Cognac deliciously combines the sweetness of virgin pears with a touch of the finest French Cognac matured for four years in French Limousin oak, with hints of vanilla.Xanté is a result of carefully selected, premium all-natural ingredients containing... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Bartending Career

12:15pm CDT

Crafted Conversation
Feedback Survey
The conversation will seek to uncover the hard choices made in building bars.  Where has the industry gone in the years they have been opening bars for other people, and how adjustments were made for the present state of the industry in their own bars.  We will seek to unravel what has changed and where the industry is heading.  
Speakers
avatar for Erick Castro

Erick Castro

Beverage Director, Possessed by Spirits
Erick Castro initially built his cocktail empire at San Francisco's Rickhouse and Bourbon & Branch by searching for obscure recipes, methods and ingredients that originated prior to Prohibition. The bartending behemoth has created unique beverage programs that have earned a place... Read More →

Personalities
GG
JL
avatar for Jordan Bushell

Jordan Bushell

Head of Mixology and Brand Education, Hennessy
In his constant pursuit for the perfect cocktail, Jordan Bushell joined the Hennessy team in 2010 as the US Ambassador of Mixology and Brand Education. Travelling all around the globe to discover new flavors and techniques, he brings his knowledge, experience and passion when crafting... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Hennessy

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Restaurant R'evolution
  Special Events

12:30pm CDT

Braintending: Cognition Across the Bar
Feedback Survey
We have the technology, we can build them better. Take a look inside the brains of the worlds best bartenders, the deepest needs of our guests, and the subtle and counterintuitive effects of ethanol on our brains and bodies. Join a motley crew of industry experts, booze hounds and nerds as they apply current research in the fields of cognitive science, psychology, and biology to explore the underpinnings of what makes a great night out for our guests, and a great service for you and your team.
Moderators
avatar for Nick Kennedy

Nick Kennedy

Bartender/ Bar Owner, Civil Liberties Bar
Nick loves working behind the bar. He currently puts in five or six nights a week as principal bartender and owner at Civil Liberties, a modern cocktail bar located in Toronto, Canada. Nick began his career in the bar industry while studying Neuroscience at the University of Toronto... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Gary Regan

Gary Regan

owner, bar rags, llc
gaz regan—the bartender formerly known as Gary Regan—is a bartender at The Dead Rabbit, NYC, he was the cocktail columnist for The San Francisco Chronicle for fourteen years, and he’s the author of The Bartender’s Bible, the bartender’s GIN compendium, the Annual Manual... Read More →
avatar for Adam Rogers

Adam Rogers

Articles Editor, Wired Magazine
Adam Rogers is the Articles Editor at Wired magazine in San Francisco, where he runs the front-of-book sections and edits features, primarily about science but also other miscellaneous geekery. Rogers was a writer and on-air correspondent for the television show Wired Science, and... Read More →
AT

Andrew Toplack

Andrew Toplac: Medical Doctor, Practising Psychotherapist, Differs Guide contributor, Spirits Importer and Partner at Revel NOLA. Andrew Toplack, a psychotherapist by day and fanatical cocktail enthusiast by night. Andrew inherited the obsession from his father, a foodie back in the... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail® has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world’s premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Bartending Career

12:30pm CDT

No Reservations - Hotel Bars Old and New
Feedback Survey
When you think of the Golden Age of the Cocktail, many of the names of the bars we revere are not so much bars as bars within hotels - the American Bar, the Old Waldorf Astoria, the Caribe Hilton, and many more. Even the renaissance of the cocktail was fueled in large part by bars like the Met in London, and the trend spread around the globe fueled by a jet set of cocktail lovers and the bartenders who served them. The 21st Century traveler wanted the same standard of drinks, and service, whether they were in San Francisco or Sydney or Seoul, and top bartenders were recruited from cocktail capitals to bring that standard to far flung fields. But the Hotel Bar is both consistent and continually evolving. What makes a great Hotel Bar, and a great Hotel Bartender?  Our well travelled panel of hotel insiders and regular guests - Josh Wagner of the Edition Group, Erik Lorincz of the Savoy Hotel, Chris Lowder of Charles H in Seoul, travel writer Mark Ellwood, together with bar industry veterans Simon Ford and Jacob Briars - will take you on a journey through time and place. From the early hotel bars where Willard and Thomas plied their trade, to the Gilded Age, the Golden Age, the Jet Age and beyond, learn how the Hotel Bar took the Cocktail across America and around the world.  We will explore what makes a great hotel bar, go behind the scenes to explore the constraints and challenges of bringing great cocktails to life in a Hotel environment, and explore how the Hotel Bar is evolving to serve a new generation of travelers, and what that means for young bartenders who aspire to work in this incredible part of the industry, and learn the secrets of successful hotel management. We will explore how hotel operators like the Ace are making the bar the central part of the hotel experience, and how some bar owners are taking the logical next step, and opening hotels themselves. And we'll reveal the Hotel Bars we think set the standard today and in years to come.
Moderators
avatar for Jacob Briars

Jacob Briars

Advocacy Director, Bacardi
Jacob Briars likes to describe himself as New Zealand’s 7th most famous bartender, but usually that just gets people asking where New Zealand is and who the other 6 bartenders are. For the past few years he has travelled the world as a much-loved spirits educator for some of the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Mark Ellwood

Mark Ellwood

British-born, New York–based Mark Ellwood has lived out of a suitcase for most of his adult life. Mark writes regularly about luxury, including cocktail culture, for the likes of the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Departures and Condé Nast Traveler, where he is a contributing... Read More →
avatar for Simon Ford

Simon Ford

Cofounder, FORDS GIN
Cocktail bars and Gin
avatar for Erik Lorincz

Erik Lorincz

Head Bartender, American bar, The Savoy
Erik started his career graduating from the Hospitality School in his native Slovakia in 1999. Shortly afterwards he came across the first bartending book by Roman Uhlir. This inspired Erik greatly and he decided to take up the opportunity to learn about bartending. He joined a... Read More →
avatar for Christopher Lowder

Christopher Lowder

Creator, Becoming a Bartender
Chris Lowder is Head Bartender at the Four Seasons in Seoul, South Korea. As Head Bartender, Chris is responsible for cocktail creation and beverage menu curation for the hotel's six bars and restaurants, as well as banquets and room service. In its opening year (2016), his flagship... Read More →
avatar for Josh Wagner

Josh Wagner

Director of Culture & Entertainment, Miami Beach EDITION
Joshua Wagner, Director of Culture and Entertainment for The Miami Beach EDITION, began his career in the entertainment and hospitality industry at a young age. While an undergraduate student at University of Wisconsin, Wagner and his friends founded a lucrative entertainment and... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Bacardi USA

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

12:30pm CDT

Slap it! Pour it! Crush it! Swizzle it!
Feedback Survey
The Long Lost Memoirs of the Queen's Park Swizzle, the untold story of a true Trinidadian Classic. Join the House of Angostura as we explore the origin of the Swizzle with historian and Tiki expert Jeff "Beachbum" Berry, the Swizzle stick as a tool and Swizzling as a technique from Brand Ambassador Daniyel Jones, the global influence of rum on Swizzled drinks from Ian Burrell-Global Rum Ambassador, and the future of Swizzled Cocktails in North America from David Delaney Jr.-North American Brand Ambassador. Taste Angostura's Signature Cocktail: The Queen's Park Swizzle. All participants will receive Signature Swizzle kits.
Moderators
avatar for Daniyel Jones

Daniyel Jones

Brand Ambassador, House Of Angostura
Daniyel Jones is the Portfolio Brand Ambassador for the House Of Angostura, traveling the world sharing the beauty of Angostura Aromatic Bitters, Rums and Amaro Di Angostura. ​ The 2013 Champion of the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge, he continues to demonstrate his passion... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jeff Berry

Jeff Berry

Owner, Beachbum Berry's Latitude 29
One of Imbibe magazine’s “25 Most Influential Cocktail Personalities of the Past Century” and one of The Daily Meal’s “60 Coolest People in Food & Drink,” Jeff “Beachbum” Berry is the author of six books on vintage Tiki drinks and cuisine, which Los Angeles magazine... Read More →
avatar for Ian Burrell

Ian Burrell

Host, The Rum Experience Co ltd
One of the most travelled figures within the drinks industry, the award winning “EduTainer”, has redefined the definition of an international spirits ambassador. An ex professional basketball player in the UK and international recording artist, he has now established himself as... Read More →
avatar for David Delaney Jr.

David Delaney Jr.

National Brand Ambassador, House of Angostura
Since being crowned the overall winner of the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge in 2012, David Delaney Jr. has been traveling the country and actively spreading the rich history and versatility of the House of Angostura's portfolio. While many know Delaney as a brand ambassador... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for House of Angostura

House of Angostura

The House of Angostura®
Capitalizing on its heritage as the world's most well-known maker of aromatic bitters, the House of Angostura® has catapulted into the 21st century with an exquisite range of rums, the magnificent Amaro di Angostura® and of course, ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters and ANGOSTURA® orange... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Technique

12:30pm CDT

The New Age of Bourbon
Feedback Survey
We are no longer living in bourbon’s stone ages.

Forty years ago, a bourbon distiller would lose his job if he tried to age bourbon in a used barrel, add a two syllable grain or, egad, actually experiment with new yeasts. But today, experimentation, funky grains and used wine casks are bourbon’s future. 

Welcome to the New Age of Bourbon, a time when the old guard have eased up their relentless and clandestine effort to keep bourbon the same. Since 2000, more than 200 finished barrel bourbons and unconventional mashbills havesuccessfully hit the market, won awards and created a healthy new subcategory in America’s spirit. Now that these NewAged Bourbons are proven to be more than just a fad to die when hipsters find a barbershop, what do we do with them?

In The New Age of Bourbon, an esteemed panel explain the trends creating this new style and explain how they actually do give an old tried-and-true spirit new flavor profiles. The seminar will explain how distillers are able to sneak “used cooperage” past the pesky U.S. law that states bourbon must be aged only in “new charred oak.” This seminar also focuses on how the New Aged Bourbon nuances can lead to new style of whiskey cocktails.
Moderators
avatar for Fred Minnick

Fred Minnick

Author, Author
Author of Bourbon & Rum Books

Speakers
avatar for Cody Goldstein

Cody Goldstein

Founder, Muddling Memories
Cody Goldstein is the founder of Muddling Memories, a craft cocktail experience specilaizing in unique bar menu creations and interactive events. He was nominated as one of 2015's Best Bartenders by Timeout New York. His recipes and cocktails have appeared in leading national publications... Read More →
avatar for Wes Henderson

Wes Henderson

Co-Founder/Chief Innovation Officer, Louisville Distilling Company and Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Mr. Henderson presides over every aspect of the company’s production, operations, and innovation. Before the opportunity to partner with his father to create Angel’s Envy, he served as president and COO of Master Distiller Select, providing consultancy services to craft distillers... Read More →
avatar for Paul & Merry Beth Tomaszewski

Paul & Merry Beth Tomaszewski

Co-founder/Head Distiller, MB ROLAND DISTILLERY
Co-Founders of MB Roland Distillery

Sponsors
avatar for Angel's Envy

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

12:30pm CDT

Vodka & Caviar: A Timeless Love Affair
Feedback Survey
Caviar and vodka have had an on-going love affair for centuries. A venerable russian tradition, the pairing of vodka and caviar is customary throughout the world of gastronomy. When served ice cold, vodka has a subtle flavor that allows the distinctive taste of caviar to prevail. Meet panelist, Mark Zaslavsky of world renowned Marky's Cviar and elit by Stolichnaya’s Global Ambassador, Brent Lamberti as they unveil an unrivaled series of vodka and caviar pairings, featuring the limited edition pristine water series by elit. Join us in demystifying your preconceived notions on caviar and reinvigorate your passion for vodka, the perfect food spirit!
Moderators
avatar for Brent Lamberti

Brent Lamberti

Global Brand Ambassador, elit by Stolichnaya, Stoli Group USA
International Barman of Mystery, Brent Lamberti, has been mixing and measuring cocktails for the masses for the last decade and a half. After a successful run working behind all different kinds of bars in NYC. Brent joined the groundbreaking bar consultancy group, Contemporary Cocktails... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Mark Zaslavsky

Mark Zaslavsky

CEO, Marky’s Caviar & Sturgeon Aquafarms
A world renowned caviar expert and gourmet food entrepreneur, Mark Zaslavsky has been setting the trends since 1983 when he formed Marky’s Caviar in booming Miami, Florida. An explosion in gourmet food sparked an increase for Marky’s which led to the development of the first mall... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for elit by Stolichnaya

Saturday July 23, 2016 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

1:00pm CDT

MMA2 'The Rematch'
Feedback Survey
The busiest seminar of Tales 2015 is back but with a twist! A MMA 'Rematch' face off after last years 'controversial win' by Wm Grants, once again, pits 'Mixed Malt Ambassadors' from Diageo, Beam/Suntory and William Grant moderated by an independent referee aka Dave Broom. Six Whisky ambassadors, two from each company with one amazing whisky per person that they have to win the audience over with. The Catch? They only have 5 minutes and they aren't allowed to say A. How old it is or B. What distillery it's from. One whisky per company must be under 10 years old. The other is a wildcard and can be any age they choose. The twist? This year the moderator will choose who represents which whisky so it's totally double blind. The ambassadors will get 5 minutes to taste then represent the whisky as best they can with only the cask type and category as information. The moderator will ask questions to the group and the audience in a fun, interactive seminar that will educate as well as entertain as these warriors go head to head. In the end it's the audience who decides on the ultimate champion!
Moderators
avatar for Dave Broom

Dave Broom

Dave Broom was born in Glasgow (Scotland) and has spent his working life in drink. He is chief engineer of www.scotchwhisky.com and writes for numerous international titles, including Whisky Advocate. He won Best Cocktail & Spirits Writer at the 2015 Spirited Awards. He’s written... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Simon Brooking

Simon Brooking

Scotch, National Brand Ambassador, Beam Suntory
“World peace thro’ whisky one dram at a time.” Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and a member of the Robertson Clan, Simon traces his roots back to the 13th Century and the Celtic Earls of Atholl. A well-known expert on Scotch whisky, Simon has worked for many of the leading Scotch... Read More →
avatar for Gregor Cattanach

Gregor Cattanach

Master of Whisky, Director of Whisky Education, Diageo
As a boy, Gregor grew up at distilleries such as Caol Ila, Coleburn, Cragganmore andCardhu in Scotland where his father Evan worked as Master Distiller of these qualitysingle malts. This is where Gregor's apprenticeship truly began. Learning from his father issomething that he never... Read More →
avatar for Lorne Cousin

Lorne Cousin

Balvenie Ambassador, William Grant & Sons
From his highland roots in Scotland’s legendary Campbeltown – an area steeped in whisky tradition – Balvenie Brand Ambassador and renaissance man Lorne Cousin brings a wealth of craftsmanship and skill, and a lifetime’s worth of unexpected experiences, to his role with the... Read More →
avatar for Ewan Morgan

Ewan Morgan

National Director : Diageo Masters of Whisky, Diageo
Ewan is a third generation ‘whisky man’. His father was maltings manager at Tamdhu Distillery in Speyside and later the distillery manager at Highland Park Distillery on the island of Orkney. His Grandfather was the brewer at the famed distillery Cardhu. Ewan was born in Dufftown... Read More →
avatar for Johnnie Mundell

Johnnie Mundell

Ambassador for Suntory Whisky, BeamSuntory
Love & MarriageWhisky & Japan
avatar for Struan Grant Ralph

Struan Grant Ralph

Glenfiddich Ambassador, William Grant and Sons
Struan Grant Ralph the Glenfiddich Ambassador for the USA hails from Speyside, the spiritual home of Scottish Single Malt and from his first jobs working in distilleries to his current role with Glenfiddich, he has a lifelong passion and knowledge of whisky from grain to glass. This... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Beam Suntory
avatar for Diageo Single Malts
avatar for William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons

Saturday July 23, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

1:00pm CDT

The Aperitif-A Drink and a Way of Life
Feedback Survey
Some call it an aperitif. Some call it an aperitivo. And some people just like to have a drink before dinner. Whatever you call it, the aperitif has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity around the world. But what is an aperitif? Where did it come from, and how can bartenders perfect aperitifs of their own? And is it a drink, or more a way of life? We will explore the historical roots of the aperitivo, explore how France, Italy and other European countries have put their unique twist on the category, and showcase some of the finest aperitifs from the Old and New Worlds. Join our stimulating panel of aperitif experts Carina Soto Velasquez of Mary Celeste, which has helped put the aperitif cocktail back in fashion in Paris, Daniele Gentili of ‘aperitif embassy’ Bar8 in London, Naren Young of New York City’s pioneering Caffe Dante, and ‘aperitif aficionado’ Camille Vidal, for an in depth discussion of this tradition from yesterday to today. Attendees will learn how the aperitif has evolved, the role that food plays in aperitif service, and how the growing trend among cocktail lovers for ‘low proof’ drinks makes this the perfect moment for bartenders to master the art of the aperitif.
Moderators
avatar for Camille Vidal

Camille Vidal

Global ambassador, Bacardi
Camille Vidal, also known as Madame St Germain, is the global ambassador for the French liqueur St Germain, A native of southern France she knows how to host and enjoy an aperitif ‘a la française’ and will happily share her savoir faire on how to drink French fluently with... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Francois Monti

Francois Monti

Author & Journalist
François Monti is a Belgian cocktails and spirits writer who has been living in Madrid since 2009. He was one of the writers for French magazine Ginger (Spirited Awards finalist for Best Publication in 2014). His personal blog, Bottoms Up, available in both French and Spanish, is... Read More →
avatar for Carina Soto Velasquez

Carina Soto Velasquez

Carina grew up in Colombia finishing her early schooling in the city of Medellin. She moved to Paris to study French and later Sociology in 2004. After some experience working in restaurants and having always been attracted by the food and beverage industry, she decided to study Marketing... Read More →
avatar for Naren Young

Naren Young

MANAGING PARTNER, DANTE
Naren started studying classic cocktails at the tender age of, ahem, 15. Seriously, he did. Over a 20 year career in the hospitality industry, working across many different areas, Naren's skills have taken him around the world in various capacities: from training bartenders and consulting... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

Saturday July 23, 2016 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

3:00pm CDT

All' Americano: Italy & the Cocktail
Feedback Survey
In the 1860s, when Italy began exporting its vermouth to the United States, this new ingredient changed the way Americans drink, and quickly—by 1885, the Manhattan and the Martini were beginning their long reign as the king and queen of American mixed drinks and vermouth was everywhere. But the encounter with American markets and the Americans’ unique ways with mixed drinks radically changed Italian drinking as well. Please join renowned cocktail Historian David Wondrich in a characteristically detailed but lively and anecdotal exploration of both sides of this exchange between cultures. Both cocktails and aperitivi will be served.
Moderators
avatar for David Wondrich

David Wondrich

Senior Resident Fellow, North Gowanus Institute for Cranial Distempers
David Wondrich is widely hailed as the world’s foremost authority on the history of the cocktail and one of the founders of the modern craft cocktail movement. The longtime Drinks Correspondent for Esquire magazine, Dr. Wondrich (he has a PhD in Comparative Literature) is a five-time... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Amaro Sfumato

Amaro Sfumato

The term Sfumato derives from the Italian word for smoke - ‘fumo’. It is traditionally associated with a style of Renaissance painting characterized by subtle transitions between areas of dark and light. This speaks directly to this amaro’s profile, which marries a dark smokiness... Read More →
avatar for Aperitivo Cappelletti

Aperitivo Cappelletti

The Aperitivo Cappelletti, endearingly known to locals as just “Specialino”, may be the oldest style of the classic red bitter still in production. Unlike its larger commercial rivals, Cappelletti is less sweet and has a wonderful drying finish. Additionally, it still uses... Read More →
avatar for Cocchi

Cocchi

Giulio Cocchi is an authentic 125 years old family owned producer of Aromatized Wines and premium Sparkling Wines based in Asti, Italy.  Cocchi vermouths are a range of drinks solutions, best value for money, adaptable and easy to use. A cult name for bartenders all over the wo... Read More →
avatar for Haus Alpenz
avatar for Hayman's Gin

Hayman's Gin

We make award-winning English gin the original way, just as we always have. Our ginealogy dates back over 150 years, making us the only family of original English gin makers still distilling today. The key to our coveted recipe is a trusted blend of botanicals. With a good old dash... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Queen Anne Ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Cocktails & Ingredients

3:00pm CDT

Cosmic Cocktails: The Final Frontier?
Feedback Survey
It’s a hard historical truth that where human beings go, drinks follow. Explorers loaded their ships with ale and beer before they’d even consider setting sail. Jacque Cousteau enjoyed wine in his underwater lab. And now cocktails are going cosmic, as space becomes the newest place alcohol is being mixed and prepared—and will one day be enjoyed. The marriage between outer space and alcohol has been going on for billions of years. Astronomers already knew that there is free-floating ethanol swirling through the interstellar medium. Just this year, investigators discovered that Comet Lovejoy, which sweeps through our solar system every few thousand years, is made up in significant measure of alcohol and ice—a great starter for the most naturally occurring cocktail if ever there was one. More important to the hospitality industry is the new push toward space tourism, with mixologists and distilleries looking for ways to develop and consume cocktails in space—not just for the benefit of eventual cosmic vacationers, but for manufactuers back home who want to learn more about the chemistry of their drinks so that they can offer ever more variety of flavors and experiences. In 2012, the Ardbeg Distillery flew small amounts of its whiskey distillate mixed with charred oak aboard the International Space Station to simulate the barrel aging process in zero-g. An identical control study was run on the ground. The result was two different mature whiskeys with two very different flavor profiles—both delicious. A California-based company has developed a 3D-printed martini glass that uses ribbing and surface tension to prevent a zero-g cocktail from simply floating out of the glass. More recently still, the Savoy Hotel’s Beaufort Bar flew one thousand copies of its menu to the edge of space aboard a high-altitude balloon and then recovered them, a way of bringing a small brush with space to the bar’s very demanding customers. Studies aboard the space station—even ones not directly connected to cocktail development—are revealing secrets about the physics of carbonation and convection, of how the simple act of shaking or stirring changes liquids in zero-g, and how flavor sensitivity is affected as well. All of that basic science has applications both both on and off the Earth. Join Claire Smith-Warner (amateur space geek), Jeffrey Kluger (co-author of Apollo 13 and science editor for Time magazine) and Tristan Stephenson (author of The Curious Bartender) to explore the history of alcohol in space and the ways those experiences can help us develop better, more interesting cocktails on Earth. The presentation will include some extraordinary footage from the space station showing just how otherworldly the behaviour of water and carbonation can be in zero-g. You’ll never look at liquids the same way again.
Moderators
avatar for Claire Smith-Warner

Claire Smith-Warner

Head of Spirit Creation & Mixology, Belvedere Vodka
Claire Smith-Warner is Head of Spirit Creation at Belvedere Vodka and has been working with alcohol in its various forms for over 15 years. Committed to discovering new ways to drink ‘better’, Claire has developed a range of sugar free and 100% fresh fruit flavoured vodkas for... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Jeff Kluger

Jeff Kluger

Science Editor, Time Magazine
Jeffrey Kluger is the science editor for Time magazine and Time.com, principally covering science and social issues. His newest nonfiction book is Apollo 8. His newest novel is Freedom Stone, a young tale set on a South Carolina plantation in 1863, also published in 2011. He is the... Read More →
avatar for Tristan Stephenson

Tristan Stephenson

Author, The Curious Bartender, Fluid Movement
Tristan has been involved in the hospitality industry for 16 years, as a chef, waiter and bartender. After leaving Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant in 2007, Tristan took a role as a Brand Ambassador for the Reserve Brands Group, training bartenders and consumers on the delights... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Belvedere Vodka

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

3:00pm CDT

Having a Theme Without Being a Theme Bar
Feedback Survey
There is a narrow line between a bar having a theme (good) and being a theme bar (not so good). What does it take to pull this off successfully? How can a bar honor a theme without being predictable, pigeon-holed or clichéed? In this seminar, we will meet three successful bar operators who manage to walk this line gracefully and with outstanding results, including each of their bars being named among 2016's "Best Bars in America" by Esquire Magazine. They include Mark Maynard-Parisi, creator of Porchlight, a New York bar with a Southern accent and a 24-year veteran of Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, Neal Bodenheimer, creator of Cane & Table, which nods to Havana and tiki, who is also behind Cure in New Orleans, and Josh Mazza, creator of Seamstress, which takes 19th century homesteading as its inspiration without veering into kitsch or literalism, as well as The Gilroy and the newly-opened Belle Shoals.
Moderators
avatar for Michael Anstendig

Michael Anstendig

Partner, Hanna Lee Communications
Michael Anstendig is a communications maven specialized in the best things in life: spirits, cocktails, food and hospitality, with extensive experience as a freelance writer and public relations professional. Michael’s writing has appeared in the New York Times, The New York... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Neal Bodenheimer

Neal Bodenheimer

Owner, Cure, Cane & Table, and Bellocq
Born in New Orleans, Bodenheimer began working in a bar at age 18. After graduating from theUniversity of Texas at Austin, he embarked on a year- long trip around the world with a focus on exploring food and beverage traditions. Hungry to get back to the states and start working... Read More →
avatar for Mark Maynard-Parisi

Mark Maynard-Parisi

Co-Founder/ Managing Partner of Porchlight, Union Square Hospitality Group
Mark Maynard-Parisi is Co-Founder/Managing Partner at Porchlight, Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG)’s first stand-alone cocktail bar, located in New York’s West Chelsea. Mark, a 24-year veteran of USHG, together with the group’s CEO, Danny Meyer, conceptualized... Read More →
avatar for Josh Mazza

Josh Mazza

Born in Canberra, Australia, Josh Mazza found his love of wine and all things hospitality in the wine regions of Central Victoria after a family move to the regional center of Bendigo. Studying with the Australian Sommeliers Association to acquire accreditation as a Sommelier only... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal
avatar for Diplomatico Rum

Diplomatico Rum

The history of Diplomático began in Venezuela in 1959 with the establishment of a distillery, out of a partnership between Venezuela’s best rum distilleries and Seagram’s International . In 2002 the company was acquired by a group of Venezuelan entrepreneurs, most of them with... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Business of Bars & Cocktails

3:00pm CDT

Online & Offline Branding For Bartenders
Feedback Survey
Everyone sits at the bar of social media, so what are you serving? As a Bartender, what kind of information should you be putting out there? How should you be sharing it, and how much? You're not an owner-operator, but you still need to promote your bar as well, right? So which platforms should you be using, and how often? Maybe you're already social media savvy, do you know how do your posts and tweets affect the way you're viewed by others? YOU ARE A BRAND whether you know it or not. Is your social media footprint helping or hindering your Brand? Do you know how to create the proper image and get recognized - for the right reasons - by the people you want to notice you? And how do you keep them engaged? Let us help you better understand how to gracefully manoeuvre your way through the various networks and build your brand. We'll give you a list of 10 actionable items you can implement immediately to positively impact your online presence and your following, while keeping your integrity intact and your professional and personal life balanced. Come join ms. franky marshall, Audrey Fort, co-founder of drinks industry agency The Rooster Factory, and our panel, award-winning Bartender Charles Joly and Digital Strategist Jeremy JF Thompson. We'll give you some new ideas and virtual tools to add to your bar kit! And btw, are we friends on Facebook? :-)

Attendees, here's the digital version of the resources page: https://talesofthecocktail.com/bartender_branding/ 
Moderators
avatar for ms. franky marshall

ms. franky marshall

Franky is a New York City hospitality industry veteran. Having worked as a Bartender and in various other front-of-house positions at establishments across the spectrum has given her a great deal of experience to draw on. She was introduced to this rarefied cocktail world when she... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Audrey Fort

Audrey Fort

Co-Founder, The Rooster Factory
A multilingual globetrotter, bon vivant, cocktails lover, Audrey is a worthy overseas representative of the French Art de Vivre. With a Masters degree in English, Russian and international trade under her belt, she spent a first decade exporting and managing French luxury goods such... Read More →
avatar for Charles Joly

Charles Joly

Founder, Crafthouse Cocktails
Chicago native Charles Joly is an award-winning, lifelong food and beverage professional. In 2012 Joly took on the roll of Beverage Director at the Aviary in Chicago. Partnered with Chef Achatz this venture was granted the 2013 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. Formerly... Read More →
avatar for Jeremy JF Thompson

Jeremy JF Thompson

Marketing Manager, Tales of the Cocktail
Born in Los Angeles and raised in half a dozen countries, Jeremy JF Thompson settled in New Orleans by way of San Francisco and New York. After 4 years as a bar manager and consultant, followed by 6 years as a trade marketing specialist in the spirits industry, Jeremy went on to create... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for After6

After6

After6 is a community-based social media app that helps you discover things that are happening at restaurants, bars, and other places around you, right now. Our users share real-time photos and videos of people that are having fun hanging out at places, industry professionals that... Read More →

ONLINE & OFFLINE BRANDING FOR BARTENDERS v3 pdf
Saturday July 23, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Bartending Career

3:00pm CDT

The Ultimate Lagavulin Seminar
Feedback Survey
The coincide with the 200th Anniversary of one of the World's most renowned distilleries we bring the Ultimate Lagavulin Seminar. A true one off experience that will not only feature some of the rarest Lagavulin's ever sampled; coupled with a walk through the timeline of the distillery looking at the History and a technical deep delve into the distilling practices and how they have changed over the centuries. Moderated by Ewan Morgan and featuring two of the World's most renowned Whisky experts Dr Nick Morgan & Dave Broom expect a lot of information and lot of humor. If you're a Lagavulin fan this is not to be missed as there will be some real surprises
Moderators
avatar for Ewan Morgan

Ewan Morgan

National Director : Diageo Masters of Whisky, Diageo
Ewan is a third generation ‘whisky man’. His father was maltings manager at Tamdhu Distillery in Speyside and later the distillery manager at Highland Park Distillery on the island of Orkney. His Grandfather was the brewer at the famed distillery Cardhu. Ewan was born in Dufftown... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dave Broom

Dave Broom

Dave Broom was born in Glasgow (Scotland) and has spent his working life in drink. He is chief engineer of www.scotchwhisky.com and writes for numerous international titles, including Whisky Advocate. He won Best Cocktail & Spirits Writer at the 2015 Spirited Awards. He’s written... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo
Dr Nicholas Morgan Head of Whisky Outreach, Diageo Dr Nicholas Morgan is Head of Whisky Outreach at Diageo plc, the largest Scotch whisky producer. Nick is an acknowledged authority on the Scotch Whisky business and a frequent speaker at Whisky and Spirits events around the world... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Arcoroc
avatar for Chef & Sommelier
avatar for Diageo Single Malts
avatar for Edward Don

Edward Don

Owned and operated by the Don family since 1921, Edward Don & Company is the world's leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable sales representatives, unmatched product selection, nationwide distribution centers, and integration of new technology... Read More →
avatar for Lagavulin

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Bonnet Carre Room at the Hotel Monteleone
  Seminar, Exclusive Tasting

3:30pm CDT

Pre-New Orleans Cocktail Tour Happy Hour
Feedback Survey
Pre-tour with Wyborowa Wódka! We’re all about a kick-off, so kick off your New Orleans Cocktail Tour of legendary history with Wybo, a genuine Polish rye vodka based on over 500 years of Polish Vodka craftsmanship.
Sponsors
avatar for Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa Wódka

Wyborowa – Wybo for short – genuine Polish vodka, created in 1927 with over 500 years of Polish vodka craftsmanship.With quality highlighted by more than 20 international awards from around the world including Vienna, Rome, Brussels and San Francisco, the Pure Rye Grain combined... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

3:30pm CDT

Deconstructing the Solera Method
Feedback Survey
For generations family owned producers have applied the Solera process for different applications. from Sherry to Brandy to Rum. This is a journey into this ancient process, the magical elements of it that allows us to produce beautiful delicate spirits and showcase centuries of tradition. Discover the method behind aging spirits, its oak influence while understanding terroir and evaporation. 

Meet Nestor Ortega master distiller of Santa Teresa Rum and Lustau Winemaker Director Manuel Lozano. Sample through different stages of brandy and Solera Rum and taste through unique expressions never seen before. We invite you to get some knowledge about the Solera method and have more tools to understand what makes this process special. 
Join two of the most awarded family owned producers with hundreds of years of family tradition and unique history
Moderators
avatar for Rafael Reyes

Rafael Reyes

NY Brand Ambassador, Santa Teresa Rum
With over 11 years of experience in the cocktail and hospitality industry, Rafael has always followed his passion for craft spirits and better quality ingredients. He has visited distilleries worldwide, staged in kitchens and researched cocktail cultures around the world. Rafael... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Nestor Ortega

Nestor Ortega

Master Distiller, Santa Teresa Rum
Just as he would when treating an aged rum itself, Néstor Ortega patiently allowed his knowledge to mature over time to become the master rum-maker at Ron Santa Teresa. A graduate in Chemical Engineering from the Universidad Simón Bolivar (1980), he began to work in the processing... Read More →
avatar for Will Peet

Will Peet

Trade Educator
Being a native of the New York Metropolitan Area, Will has always been immersed in the restaurant and hospitality world. Coming from a restaurant family, he has always known his path would be to become part of the culture. Working his way through the system, Will found himself managing... Read More →
avatar for Fernando Pérez

Fernando Pérez

Master Distiller and Quality Control Director, Caballero Group
Born in El Puerto de Santa María, Fernando Pérez was introduced to winemaking at an early age. He frequently visited the Sherry winery where his older cousins were working and became intrigued with the culture of Sherry.  How different styles of wines were obtained from a sole... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Lustau

Lustau

A huge range of exceptional Sherry wines, vermouth and brandies, endorsed by outstanding ratings and medals in international competitions confirms Lustau as the benchmark of quality when talking about Sherry. In 2012 Lustau was the Spanish winery to take most international awards... Read More →
avatar for Santa Teresa Rum

Santa Teresa Rum

Venezuela's oldest producer of award winning Aged Rum since 1796.

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, Spirit History & Production

3:30pm CDT

Mexican Flavor Beyond Frontiers
Feedback Survey
Join Chef Rick Bayless for an exploration into the heart of Mexican flavor. Rick, award-winning chef (7 Beard awards, Top Chef Masters winner, others) and long-time Public Television host, is one of the most knowledgeable chefs when it comes to regional Mexican flavors. Together with Ivan Saldaña, expert in plant biology and spirit producer (Ancho Reyes & Montelobos) and Scott Baird, mixologist and bar owner (Trick Dog, San Francisco), they will tell the story of classic Mexican flavors—how they are created, how they came to be—culminating with the merging of the culinary world with that of cocktails. Given Rick’s depth of knowledge and much-lauded cuisine, we expect to offer attendees an amazing taste experience. Mexico´s biological and cultural diversity has created one of the most complex and sensorialy rich sources of flavors in the World. Of course, Mexico has many well-recognized offerings for any bar (Tequila, Mezcal, Sotol, Raicilla, Pox, Bacanora and so forth), but few bars and trade professionals realize the full potential Mexican chiles, herbs and spices in crafting cocktails. This seminar will explain the flavor of seven different chiles (and how coax multiple flavors from each). Then we’ll explore the use of lesser known herbs that are becoming available in the United States (epazote, culantro, hoja santa) plus the more common cilantro, chamomile and Mexican oregano, and take a quick look at the spice achiote. For all of these, we’ll demonstrate how different preparatory techniques create different flavors from each ingredient. Next, we’ll discuss the collaboration between the kitchen and the bar—a variety of infusion techniques and cocktail flavorings—allowing us to capture the full botanical potential of each ingredient. And, of course, we’ll end up with what we think are truly great cocktails with true Mexican spirit.
Moderators
avatar for Iván Saldaña Oyarzábal

Iván Saldaña Oyarzábal

Founder / Writer and Educator, Montelobos Mezcal
Iván Saldaña is a premier agave plant and distillation master, an expert in tequila and mezcal, and a certified doctor with a PhD in biochemistry from the University of Sussex in England. Born in Guadalajara, México, Iván has spent his life around agave, having worked on environmental... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for SCOTT BAIRD

SCOTT BAIRD

Founding Partner, The Bon Vivants
Scott Baird, a Bay Area native, is a founding partner of The Bon Vivants, a nationally recognized hospitality, design, and creative group. In 2009, Baird was approached by fellow bartender and co-worker at 15 Romolo, Josh Harris. The duo decided to take on a bar-consulting gig together... Read More →
avatar for Rick Bayless

Rick Bayless

Most people know Rick Bayless from winning the title of Bravo’s Top Chef Masters, beating out the French and Italian with his authentic Mexican cuisine. His highly rated Public Television Series, Mexico–One Plate at a Time, is in its ninth season and is broadcast coast to coast... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Ancho Reyes

Ancho Reyes

Ancho ReyesEl auténtico y original licor de chile ancho.Ancho Reyes® es un licor hecho a partir del extraordinario chile ancho, inspirado en una receta de los años 20´s, originaria de la ciudad de Puebla de Zaragoza. Ancho Reyes® es un repaso de sabor en las tradiciones, costumbres... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fleur de Lis Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
  Seminar, General Interest

4:00pm CDT

New Orleans Cocktail Tour
Feedback Survey
There’s a reason Tales of the Cocktail® calls New Orleans home—the city’s legendary bars and bartenders helped shaped how Americans drink. Join us as we explore the rich cocktail history of our city with a spirited romp through the French Quarter led by legendary tour guide, Joe Gendusa. We’ll start in Le Booze bar of the Royal Sonesta then head out as Joe shares tall tales of the famous bars, restaurants, people and cocktails that made New Orleans such a famous place to have a drink.

*First cocktail at Le Booze included. Cocktails available for purchase at bar stops.
Speakers
JG

Joe Gendusa

Gendusa is a New Orleans native and a respected teacher for 38 years. After his retirement, he joined forces with Tales of the Cocktail® founder, Ann Tuennerman, to start what is known today as New Orleans Original Cocktail Tour. Gendusa has also written a book entitled History With... Read More →

Saturday July 23, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Le Booze
  Special Events

6:30pm CDT

One for the Ages: The 10th Annual Spirited Awards®
Feedback Survey
In 2016, we’re celebrating 10 years of the Spirited Awards® with a bar crawl through time. We’ll travel to three different decades to sample the drinks and celebrate the music, movies and style of these bygone eras. Come dressed in your favorite 50s, 80s or 2000s attire as we recognize the best bars, bartenders, distillers, writers and more from the past year. It’s a cocktail party that’s been a decade in the making.
Moderators
avatar for Simon Ford

Simon Ford

Cofounder, FORDS GIN
Cocktail bars and Gin

Sponsors
avatar for 86 Co
avatar for Anchor Distilling Company

Anchor Distilling Company

Named the 2015 Icons of Whisky Importer of the Year by Whisky Magazine, Anchor Distilling Company aims to provide the bridge between discerning buyers and world's finest spirits. A privately owned distiller and importer, Anchor boasts an artisanal portfolio with over 400 specialty... Read More →
avatar for Bacardi USA
avatar for BarSmarts
avatar for Beam Suntory
avatar for Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte
avatar for Chivas
avatar for El Dorado Rum
avatar for Gazela Vinho Verde
avatar for Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company

Goose Island Beer Company is Chicago’s original craft beer company. Since 1988, the brewery has thrived on continual innovation and a reliance on quality of ingredients. Goose Island pioneered barrel-aged beer with the renowned Bourbon County Brand Stout which sits alongside the... Read More →
avatar for House of Angostura

House of Angostura

The House of Angostura®
Capitalizing on its heritage as the world's most well-known maker of aromatic bitters, the House of Angostura® has catapulted into the 21st century with an exquisite range of rums, the magnificent Amaro di Angostura® and of course, ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters and ANGOSTURA® orange... Read More →
avatar for Luxardo

Luxardo

LUXARDO® is Italy’s premier liqueur producer, creating essential ingredients for modern and classic cocktails. Founded in 1821 by Girolamo Luxardo, the company is still family-owned and managed by the sixth generation of the Luxardo Family. Based in Torreglia, located in the Veneto... Read More →
avatar for Nikka Whisky

Nikka Whisky

Single malt, pure malt and grain whisky expressions from the distilleries founded by the father of Japanese Whisky, Masataka Taketsuru.
avatar for Parlor Lounge at the Mirage Hotel Las Vegas
PA
avatar for Pernod Ricard
avatar for Pierre Ferrand Cognac

Pierre Ferrand Cognac

In the heart of the famous “Golden Triangle” in Grande Champagne lies the production of one of the world’s most venerated Cognacs, Pierre Ferrand Cognac. Not only is this Cognac considered the “Premier Cru de Cognac” but the house of Cognac Ferrand is lauded as a Grande... Read More →
avatar for Ramazzotti
avatar for Rutte
S
avatar for The Cromwell Las Vegas
avatar for United States Bartenders' Guild

United States Bartenders' Guild

The mission of the United States Bartenders' Guild is to united the hospitality community to advance professional bartending. We accomplish this through working with our committed partners to enrich the career advancement of our members through peer-to-peer learning, expert instruction... Read More →
WG

Saturday July 23, 2016 6:30pm - 11:30pm CDT
Sheraton New Orleans
  Special Events

8:00pm CDT

Orpheum Theater and Trixie Minx Proudly Present, with The Underground, Cocktail Cabaret
Feedback Survey
After this year’s wildly successful Valentine’s show at theOrpheum Theater, Cupid’s Cabaret, Trixie Minx and the Orpheum Theater are pairing up once again to create a sizzling summer show —Cocktail Cabaret, shaking up the stage on Saturday, July 23rd.

Tickets are on sale now at www.OrpheumNOLA.com.

Producer Trixie Minx, best known for her burlesque shows, continues to push the creative
boundaries of the traditional tease in this newest production. Inspired by New Orleans’ own
Tales of the Cocktail, Cocktail Cabaret promises to be a night where vintage vaudeville
entertainment takes an exciting contemporary twist perfectly mixed with your favorite spirits.

Doors: 8:00 PM
Show: 9:00 PM

Ticket Prices:
Reserved Orchestra $20
Reserved Balcony $20
Reserved Orchestra Gold Circle $30
Balcony Loges $30
Balcony Boxes $35

Set in a 1900’s prohibition-era speakeasy, dancing waitresses open the curtains to reveal our Bartender, comic host Chris Lane, who leads guests through a series of tantalizing offerings. Featuring an all-star cast of acrobats, tap dancers, aerialists, and of course the best of burlesque, each performer puts their unique signature on a classic cocktail.

That’s not all the show has in store! More than a show, Cocktail Cabaret is an immersive environment that pays homage to New Orleans’ early 1900’s Vaudeville & Burlesque, but with renewed vitality for today.

As always, Trixie has a few surprises in store for the evening of entertainment. “I can’t tell you EVERYTHING we are going to do, where’s the fun in that?” Says Minx. “But I can tell you that if you come to the show and drink with us you might see a very sparkly pink elephant!” 

Saturday July 23, 2016 8:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Orpheum Theater
  Special Events
 

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21st Amendment Bar
240 Bourbon Street
Abita Brewing Company
Acadia Suite at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
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ALTO at Ace Hotel New Orleans
Angela King Gallery
Arnaud's French 75 Bar
Arnaud's Restaurant
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Carousel Lounge at the Hotel Monteleone
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Cure
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Footprints To Fitness
Freret Street
Front Steps of the Hotel Monteleone
Generation's Hall
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Iberville Room at the Hotel Monteleone
Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
La Nouvelle East & West at the Hotel Monteleone
La Nouvelle Orleans East at the Hotel Monteleone
La Nouvelle Orleans West at the Hotel Monteleone
Le Booze
Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre
Lobby Gift Shop at the Hotel Montelone
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Lobby Phone Bank at the Hotel Monteleone
Maison Dupuy
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Martine Chaisson Gallery
Meauxbar
Mother's Restaurant
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Old New Orleans Rum
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Restaurant R'evolution
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