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Meet the 2025 Judges
Our judges are industry leaders—from top bartenders and master distillers to renowned writers and retailers—bringing expertise, passion, and diverse perspectives to every sip. Each year, we assemble a panel that blends technical skill with real-world experience, ensuring every entry is evaluated with precision and respect for craftsmanship. Their dedication helps make the New Orleans Spirits Competition a standout in the industry.
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We’re honored to have these experts at the table—raising the bar, one sip at a time.
Our judges are industry leaders—from top bartenders and master distillers to renowned writers and retailers—bringing expertise, passion, and diverse perspectives to every sip. Each year, we assemble a panel that blends technical skill with real-world experience, ensuring every entry is evaluated with precision and respect for craftsmanship. Their dedication helps make the New Orleans Spirits Competition a standout in the industry.
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We’re honored to have these experts at the table—raising the bar, one sip at a time.
Meet the 2025 Judges
Tiffanie Barriere
The Drinking Coach
An award-winning educator, storyteller, and bartender’s bartender, Tiffanie is a force in the industry, honored with the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail Visionary Award and named Bartender of the Year by Women of Whiskey. Her influence extends far beyond the bar, shaping the future of cocktails with her bold creativity and cultural storytelling. Formerly the Beverage Director of the acclaimed One Flew South, Tiffanie has judged international cocktail competitions, appeared on The Today Show and Netflix’s Drink Masters, and headlined cocktail festivals across the country. Her work has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, and Southern Living, celebrating her unique approach to cocktails and hospitality. A champion of creativity, culture, and community, she is passionate about uplifting Black women in spirits and inspiring a new generation of bartenders and cocktail lovers to raise the bar—literally.
Paul Clarke
Editor in Chief, Imbibe
As Editor in Chief of Imbibe magazine, Paul has spent over 20 years exploring the world of spirits, cocktails, and drink culture. His writing has been featured in The New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Serious Eats, and many other leading publications. In 2014, he was honored with the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Best Cocktail Writer, solidifying his impact on the industry. Paul is the author of The Cocktail Chronicles: Navigating the Cocktail Renaissance with Jigger, Shaker, and Glass (2015) and a contributor and editorial board member for The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails (2021). His work has also appeared in The New York Times Essential Book of Cocktails (2022), further cementing his reputation as a go-to expert on all things spirits and cocktails. Beyond writing, Paul is a sought-after speaker and educator, frequently sharing his expertise at events such as Tales of the Cocktail, Bar Convent Berlin, Portland Cocktail Week, Kentucky Bourbon Classic, BACoctel Buenos Aires, and Charleston Wine and Food. Holding a WSET Level 3 Certification in Spirits, he is also a WSET Certified Spirits Educator, dedicated to furthering spirits education worldwide.
Dale DeGroff
Author & Partner Degroff Spirits
Widely credited with reinventing the profession of bartending, Dale DeGroff set off the craft cocktail renaissance that continues to shape the industry today. His impact has earned him two James Beard Awards, Wine Enthusiast’s Cocktail Legend Award, and countless other accolades that cement his legacy as one of the most influential figures in mixology. Dale is the founding president of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans and a celebrated author, with his latest book, The New Craft of the Cocktail, further shaping the education of bartenders worldwide. Beyond writing and advocacy, he has expanded his influence into spirits development, partnering with Absinthe distiller T.A. Breaux and Hood River Distillers to launch DeGroff Spirits, featuring DeGroff New World Amaro and DeGroff Bitter Aperitivo.
ms. franky marshall
Modern Bartender ~ Educator ~ Consultant
With a career spanning some of New York’s most iconic establishments, franky is a highly sought-after bartender, educator, and consultant, known for her liquid creations, industry insights, and strong opinions—which have been widely featured across various media. A respected guest speaker, event host, and judge, she lends her expertise to spirits and cocktail competitions around the world. She serves as Co-Chair of the Tales of the Cocktail Education Committee, an instructor for the prestigious BAR 5-Day program, and is a Certified Cognac and Pineau des Charentes Educator, showcasing her deep knowledge of spirits and service.
Kate Gerwin
Owner Happy Accidents
With a career spanning decades, Kate has earned a reputation as a leader, educator, and visionary in the world of cocktails and spirits. She is the first woman and first American to win the Bols Around the World Bartending Championship, a two-time global champion, and the recipient of multiple Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Her contributions to the industry have also earned her a place in the Catalyst Hall of Fame, and she was named Innovator of the Year in 2023 for her forward-thinking approach to bartending and hospitality. Kate is a faculty member of the prestigious Bar 5 Day program, where she helps shape the next generation of beverage professionals. She is also the owner of Happy Accidents Bar & Distillery in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a nationally recognized cocktail bar that has received accolades for its creative approach to drinks and hospitality. Beyond bartending, Kate is a mentor, consultant, and speaker, regularly sharing her insights on innovation, bar ownership, and industry sustainability at major cocktail conferences and events. Her dedication to excellence and boundary-pushing creativity have made her one of the most influential voices in modern mixology.
Roland K. Ng
President and Founder
As General Manager for the Americas at Kanosuke Distillery, Roland oversees the distillery’s growth across the region, leading marketing, distribution, and brand development while supporting industry partners in expanding Kanosuke’s presence. A respected voice in the whisky world, he is deeply involved in promoting and educating others about Japanese whisky and global spirits culture. Beyond his role at Kanosuke, Roland is a co-founder of the San Francisco Whisky Society, the largest spirits enthusiast group on the West Coast, as well as Fog City Social, which fosters a strong community around whisky appreciation. His passion for spirits extends to competition judging, where he has served on panels for the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Singapore World Spirits Competition, and other major industry events. With a deep knowledge of Japanese whisky, spirits innovation, and consumer engagement, Roland continues to shape the industry through education, advocacy, and expert evaluation.
Steve Beal
International Drinks Expert
Steve Beal is one of the world’s most respected whisky experts. As a founding member and senior consultant at the Council of Whiskey Masters, he has helped advance whisky education and certification globally, shaping the next generation of industry professionals. He was formerly Senior Brand Educator for Diageo North America, where he played a pivotal role in developing and promoting some of the industry’s most renowned whisky brands, including Johnnie Walker, Bulleit Bourbon, George Dickel, Crown Royal, Bushmills, and the Classic Malts Selection. His contributions have earned him some of the industry’s highest honors, including induction as a Keeper of the Quaich in 2010, entry into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame in 2015, and the USBG Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in 2016. A Master Accreditation Educator with the United States Bartenders’ Guild, Steve has also been a sought-after writer, presenter, and mentor, sharing his expertise with spirits professionals worldwide. Since retiring from Diageo in 2015, Steve has remained a force in the industry as a strategic consultant, mentor, and blender. His firm, International Drinks Specialist, was named 2023 International Drinks Consultancy of the Year by The Spirits Business publication, further solidifying his impact on the spirits world.
Tracie Franklin
Get Spirited Consulting
Tracie is a globally recognized spirits educator, blender, and whiskey influencer with a career that spans bartending, sales, marketing, and production, giving her a comprehensive perspective on the industry. Her expertise is underscored by a Diploma in Distillation from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, making her not just an advocate for whiskey, but a creator of it. Tracie has represented some of the world’s most prestigious spirits brands, including Ardbeg, Angel’s Envy, and Rhum Clément, and served as National Ambassador for Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch. Her ability to blend entertainment with education has made her a sought-after speaker at Charlotte Food and Wine, Essence Festival, and Drexel University, as well as a featured guest on The Today Show and Good Morning America. Her impact on the industry has been widely recognized—she was named an Icon of Whiskey by Whisky Magazine, inducted into the Tales of the Cocktail Dame Hall of Fame, and awarded Diversity Distilled’s Black Excellence in Spirits Award. Committed to mentorship and advocacy, she supports the next generation of spirits professionals as a board member for Our Whisky Foundation and Sip of Paradise Garden.
Garnett Phillip
Owner of The Rum Bar BK,
The Rum Girl®
Known as The Rum Girl®, Garnett is a trailblazing business strategist and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience, proving that hard work and resilience lead to lasting success. As the owner of The Rum Bar BK, she has built more than just a bar—she has created a cultural platform that celebrates Caribbean heritage, rum, and tradition. A passionate advocate for history and community, Garnett uses rum as a storytelling medium, educating and enlightening people about their roots while bringing them together through the shared legacy of this iconic spirit. Her work speaks not only to New York City but resonates deeply with the Caribbean community, honoring the spirit of immigrants chasing the American Dream.
Flavien Desoblin
The Brandy Library
As the owner of Brandy Library in Tribeca and Copper & Oak on the Lower East Side, Flavien has built two of Manhattan’s most iconic spirits destinations, known for their world-class collections. He has also authored two books on distilling and serves as a curator and host for the Spirits Network, sharing his expertise with a wider audience. Flavien’s contributions have earned him some of the industry’s highest honors, including Cognac Personality of the Year (2010), recognition from the Compagnie des Mousquetaires d’Armagnac (2013), and induction as a Keeper of the Quaich (2014) for his outstanding commitment to Scotch whisky. With a Master’s degree in wines and spirits business from Dijon Business School and a distilling diploma from Heriot-Watt University, Flavien brings both technical expertise and a deep appreciation for tradition.
Sother Teague
Beverage Director Amor y Amargo
Best known as the Beverage Director of Amor y Amargo, Sother has been a driving force in the revival of amaro-forward and bitters-based cocktails. His expertise in crafting complex, spirit-forward drinks has earned Amor y Amargo a reputation as one of New York City’s most respected cocktail bars. Beyond the bar, Sother is a celebrated author and media personality. His book, I’m Just Here for the Drinks, is a must-read for cocktail enthusiasts, blending history, technique, and humor. He also co-hosts the award-winning podcast The Speakeasy on Heritage Radio Network, where he shares deep dives into the world of cocktails and spirits. A dedicated industry educator, Sother frequently speaks at cocktail conferences, spirits festivals, and industry events, mentoring bartenders and pushing the craft forward. His innovative approach and dedication to hospitality have made him a respected leader in the cocktail world.
Nancy Fraley
Master Whiskey & Rum Blender
International Consultant
Nosing Services
Nancy has shaped the industry as a blender, educator, and consultant, specializing in custom blending, product formulation, maturation strategies, and sensory analysis through her Berkeley-based firm, Nosing Services. She has played a vital role in crafting award-winning whiskeys and rums, earning her a reputation as a go-to expert for distillers around the world. Her journey into the spirits industry is as unique as her approach to blending. After earning a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard and a Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco, Nancy found her true calling in the world of maturation and sensory science while working with Germain-Robin Brandy. She went on to collaborate with master distiller Hubert Germain-Robin, deepening her expertise in blending and barrel aging. Later, as Director of Research for the American Distilling Institute, she helped train hundreds of distillers, leading courses like Nosing for Faults and Blending & Maturation workshops. Nancy’s contributions go beyond blending—she created the Craft Whiskey Aroma Wheel, a tool that has become essential for distillers analyzing the nuances of their spirits. Her dedication to craft and education has been recognized across the industry—she was named Bourbon Women’s Master Blender of the Year (2024) and Top Spirits Influencer by the American Distilling Institute (2024), cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the whiskey world.
Abigail Gullo
Creative Director, Loa Bar
With two decades in the beverage industry, Abigail got her start crafting neighborhood cocktails in the pioneering bars of early 21st-century New York City. Since then, she has created drinks for award-winning restaurants across the globe—from New Orleans to Seattle, Rome to Athens, and Puerto Rico. A multi-time Bartender of the Year, Abigail has mixed cocktails for The Today Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. She also co-hosts the New Orleans-focused podcast, Drink & Learn, sharing her extensive knowledge of cocktails and spirits. Currently, she serves as Creative Director at Loa Bar and the International House Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana, where her innovative approach continues to shape the city’s cocktail scene. In 2025, Abigail was honored with a James Beard Nomination for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, solidifying her place as one of the industry’s leading figures.
Geoffrey Wilson
Turning Tables
A bartender, mentor, and dedicated advocate for equity in hospitality. At Turning Tables NOLA, Geoffrey is deeply committed to mentorship, education, and creating career opportunities for Black and Brown hospitality professionals. His work extends beyond technical training—he actively empowers individuals, instills confidence, and advocates for greater representation and inclusivity in the industry. A sought-after speaker and leader in diversity and equity conversations, he collaborates on initiatives that uplift and support bar professionals at all levels. With over a decade of experience behind the bar, Geoffrey has honed his craft at acclaimed venues across the country, including Ocotillo in Phoenix and the Multnomah Whiskey Library in Portland. His expertise has earned him recognition such as Best Bartender in Chicago (2008) and Best Bartender in Phoenix (2014). His approach blends technical skill, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of the evolving hospitality landscape, making him a respected voice in the industry.
H. Joseph Ehrmann
Proprietor & Entrepreunuer
As the 12th Proprietor of ELIXIR, San Francisco’s second-oldest saloon, H. has been at the forefront of revitalizing cocktail culture and shaping the industry for decades. His expertise as a spirits judge, consultant, and educator has made him an internationally respected authority in the world of beverages. Beyond ELIXIR, he has founded multiple ventures that continue to influence the drinks industry. He operates ELIXIR To Go, a cocktail event production company, Cocktail Ambassadors, a beverage industry consultancy, Fresh Victor, a fresh cocktail mixer brand, and Kokoro Spirits, an independent bottler of unique spirits.
Keli Rivers
NY House of Suntory Brand Ambassador
With over 35 years in hospitality, Keli has traveled the world working in kitchens and bars, gaining a deep appreciation for spirits and cocktails. In 2018, she transitioned into an ambassador role, and since then, she has been spreading the gospel of juniper-driven beverages as the award-winning Suntory Global Spirits Ambassador. A prolific writer, Keli is the author of six (soon to be seven) cocktail novellas, blending storytelling with mixology. Her passion for gin has earned her Gin Magazine’s Iconic Awards: Gin Ambassador of the Year, a testament to her dedication and expertise in the category. As an international spirits judge, Keli lends her sharp palate and deep knowledge to competitions around the world, including the New Orleans Spirits Competition. To say she likes gin is a gross understatement!
Monique Huston
VP Spirits - Winebow Fine Wine + Spirits
A Keeper of the Quaich, Monique has been recognized for her outstanding commitment to the Scotch whisky industry, a distinction reserved for those who have made a significant impact in the world of whisky. Beyond Scotch, she is a driving force in spirits education, curation, and advocacy, serving on the advisory board for the Council of Whiskey Masters, WSWA’s Craft Spirits Access Advisory Panel, and as a board member of the Tequila Interchange Project, where she champions sustainability, authenticity, and education in the industry. Her spirits journey began at Dundee Dell in Omaha, Nebraska, where she helped curate and manage one of the largest whisky and spirits collections in the world. Her deep passion for spirits propelled her into leadership roles, and today, as VP of Winebow’s Spirits Portfolio, she oversees a nationally recognized selection of brands, working closely with distillers, producers, and innovators to bring exceptional spirits to market. Her expertise has been featured in Whisky Advocate, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal, and she is a highly sought-after judge and panelist for global spirits competitions and industry events. Whether evaluating new releases, guiding spirits programs, or mentoring the next generation of beverage professionals, Monique’s influence can be felt across the industry.
Matt Rowley
Writer
Matt is the author of several books on spirits and distilling, including Lost Recipes of Prohibition (2015) and Moonshine! (2007), as well as the creator of the Whiskey Forge blog (2008–2015). A former museum curator, he has spent years researching and documenting the rich history of cocktails, spirits, and culinary traditions, making him a sought-after voice in the industry. His writing has appeared in Imbibe, Distiller, Whisky Advocate, and other leading publications, and he serves as a contributing editor for The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails (2021). As a James Beard Award finalist, Matthew’s work bridges historical scholarship with modern spirits culture, offering unique insights into the evolution of distilling and cocktail craftsmanship. Beyond writing, Matthew is a respected spirits judge, lending his sharp palate and deep historical knowledge to competitions and media awards programs, including the James Beard Awards and the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. He currently resides in San Diego, California, where he continues to explore the intersection of history, spirits, and storytelling.
Dänny Ronen
Founder, DC Spirits + Partner, Shaker & Spoon
Over 25 years ago, Danny founded DC Spirits, an educational organization dedicated to food, wine, and spirits with a strong focus on small producers and sustainability. His expertise in F&B innovation and development has taken him around the world, working on restaurant and hotel concepts ranging from neighborhood bars to internationally renowned luxury properties like Fairmont and Raffles, many of which have earned critical acclaim. As a consultant and strategist, Ronen collaborates with spirits brands on product development and strategy, creates immersive event activations, and speaks on topics including spirit denomination of origin, Fair Trade and sustainability, product ideation, hospitality, and operational efficiency. His passion lies in introducing new concepts and flavors to a wider audience, something he continues to do daily as a partner at Shaker & Spoon, the award-winning national cocktail subscription service.
Lee Hedgmon
Title: Distiller/Honey Alchemist. Workplace: The Barreled Bee
A distiller, brewer, and beekeeper, Lee is the founder of The Barreled Bee, where she crafts barrel-aged honey, honey-centered sauces, syrups, and cocktail-inspired confections. With a deep passion for fermentation and craft spirits, she blends tradition with innovation, bringing a unique perspective to the world of spirits. Before launching The Barreled Bee, Lee honed her skills as a distiller at Freeland Spirits and McMenamins, developing complex, well-balanced spirits that showcase both artistry and technical precision. She has also worked on barrel-finished whiskey and gin collaborations, merging her love of honey with her expertise in distillation.
Bridget Albert
Served Up the Podcast Founder and Host
Bridget has shaped the beverage industry through influential training programs and mentorship, developing education initiatives for Hilton Worldwide Resorts, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and Crystal Cruise Line. She is the founder of the Academy of Spirits and Fine Service, equipping bartenders with expertise in spirit history, classic cocktails, and advanced mixology techniques. Her dedication to education has earned her repeated nominations as one of the world’s top four beverage mentors at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. A celebrated author, Bridget co-wrote Market-Fresh Mixology and Life, Love, Happiness & Cocktails and has contributed to 10+ spirits books by industry icons like Tony Abou-Ganim, Kim Haasarud, and Robert Simonson. She co-hosts Served Up: The Podcast, where she amplifies industry voices and insights. Bridget was also the first featured female mixologist on Iron Chef America and has collaborated with Oprah Winfrey, Guy Fieri, and Kathie Lee Gifford. A champion for giving back, she founded the USBG National Charity Foundation and has hosted charity events for No Kid Hungry, Locks of Love, Taste of the Nation, and more.
Brett Pontoni
Specialty Spirits Buyer
With over 30 years in the spirits industry, including 25 years as a buyer, Brett has developed an unmatched expertise in sourcing and curating exceptional selections. His deep knowledge and dedication to the craft have earned him some of the industry’s highest honors, including Malt Advocate Industry Leader, Market Watch Leader, Malt Advocate Whisky of the Year, and Whisky Magazine Retail Buyer of the Year. Beyond retail, Brett has spent over 15 years judging professional spirits competitions, bringing his refined palate and industry insight to panels that celebrate excellence in whiskey, spirits, and beyond. His ability to recognize quality and craftsmanship has made him a trusted voice in the world of fine spirits.
Matt Pietrek
Editor in Chief - Rum Wonk
As the Editor in Chief of Rum Wonk, Matt has dedicated his career to researching, writing, and educating about rum and spirits history. He is the author of Modern Caribbean Rum: A Contemporary Reference to the Region’s Essential Spirit, which won the 2023 Spirited Award for Best New Book on Drinks Culture, History, or Spirits. Alongside his wife, Carrie Smith, he runs Wonk Press, a publishing company focused on creating books for spirited enthusiasts. Matt’s deep knowledge and passion for rum have made him a respected speaker, educator, and consultant in the spirits industry. His work has been featured in leading publications and at international spirits conferences, where he shares his expertise on rum production, classification, and history.
Anu Apte
Owner of Rob Roy, and Co-owner of Canoe Ventures: Navy Strength, and Vinnie's Wine Shop
A 2025 James Beard Semi-Finalist for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, Anu is the sole proprietor of the JBF-nominated Seattle cocktail den, Rob Roy, and co-owner of the acclaimed Navy Strength and Vinnie’s Wine Shop. Her commitment to excellence in cocktails, service, and hospitality has earned her a place among the industry’s best. Beyond her achievements in the bar world, Anu holds a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences, graduating Alpha Epsilon Delta honors from the University of Utah. In 2021, she furthered her education with a Post-Baccalaureate Program for Counseling and Psychology Professions through UC Berkeley, with the goal of integrating mental health care into hospitality professions—a mission that sets her apart as a leader in industry wellness and sustainability.
Lisa Roper Wicker
Master Distiller and Blender
As Master Distiller of Saints & Monsters Distilling in Bardstown, KY, Lisa continues to push the boundaries of whiskey craftsmanship, blending tradition with modern innovation. She has shaped the spirits industry through winemaking, distilling, and blending, holding pivotal roles at Limestone Branch Distillery and Huber’s Starlight Distillery before becoming Master Distiller at Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn, NY where she led innovation in sourcing, blending, and production. She also served as Senior Consulting Distiller for George Washington’s Distillery for seven years, preserving and sharing the legacy of traditional American distillation. Her influence extends beyond production—Lisa is passionate about mentorship and education, frequently serving as a judge for spirits competitions and advocating for the next generation of distillers. With an expert palate and decades of experience, she continues to shape the industry and elevate the craft of whiskey.
Lauren Patz
Mistress Blender
As Master Blender for Redwood Empire Whiskey on Mare Island, CA, Lauren leads the creation of innovative and high-quality whiskeys, blending tradition with creativity to craft spirits that honor the artistry of distillation. With over a decade in the industry, she has distilled everything from Rosolio to whey distillate, developing a deep expertise across a wide range of spirits. Her distilling mantra—passion, palate, and patience—drives her approach, ensuring every bottle reflects exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Lauren is dedicated to empowering consumers with knowledge, fostering education and mentorship in the spirits industry, and supporting diversity and inclusivity in distilling. Frequently speaking at industry events, she is a leading voice in sustainability, innovation, and the evolution of American whiskey. When she’s not crafting outstanding spirits, you’ll find her frolicking with her dog and enjoying the beauty of California’s landscapes.
Vivian Pei
Founder, Pei Sisters Projects
Growing up in a restaurant family, Vivian developed a deep passion for hospitality early on. Her career has taken her across multiple industries—from hospitality to business—always with a focus on creating opportunities and building community. She holds an MBA from London Business School, blending strategic expertise with a love for food and beverage, and has been a champion for diversity, education, and equity in the industry. Vivian has served as Senior Academy Chair at The World’s 50 Best Bars and co-founded the Singapore Cocktail Bar Association, where she has been instrumental in advancing mentorship and social impact initiatives such as Speed Rack and the Tales of the Cocktail Philanthropy & Grants Committee. As a respected spirits judge, she has evaluated cocktails and spirits in competitions across multiple countries—and even from a swimming pool! Beyond her leadership roles, Vivian is a published author, culinary instructor, and consultant. Most recently, she launched Snacky Mini Mart in Iowa, introducing locals to the flavors of Asian comfort fare.
Virginia Miller
Dining & Drinks Writer/Judge/Consultant
As W. North America Academy Chair for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Virginia is a highly respected writer, judge, and consultant, with bylines in 60+ publications, including The Bold Italic, Distiller, American Whiskey, Whisky Mag, Liquor.com, and Time Out. Her career has spanned restaurant criticism, spirits journalism, and editorial leadership, having served as Zagat SF editor, SF Guardian restaurant critic, and Table8 VP of Content. Her keen eye for food and drink trends has made her an influential voice in the industry. A seasoned spirits judge, Virginia brings her sharp palate, deep industry knowledge, and global perspective to evaluating spirits and cocktails. She is regularly invited to judge for prestigious spirits and bar competitions, where her expertise helps define and celebrate excellence in the industry. Beyond writing, Virginia is an in-demand consultant for distilleries and bars, working on product development, spirits education, and brand strategy. She co-created Avion Cristalino tequila for Pernod Ricard and has collaborated on spirits projects in Mexico, lending her expertise to brands looking to craft exceptional products. Having visited nearly 15,000 restaurants and countless bars, Virginia has seen (and tasted) it all. Whether consulting, judging, or writing, she is dedicated to elevating the world of food and spirits through her work.
Emma Janzen
Spirits & Cocktail Journalist/Author
Emma is a James Beard Award-winning writer and one of the most respected voices in agave spirits journalism. She has written extensively about mezcal, tequila, and other artisanal spirits, contributing to The New York Times, PUNCH, Imbibe Magazine, Eater, Good Beer Hunting, and more. Her deep knowledge and engaging storytelling have earned her a place on the Drinks International Bar World 100, recognizing the industry’s most influential figures since 2023. She is the author of Mezcal: The History, Craft & Cocktails of the World’s Ultimate Artisanal Spirit and has co-authored several acclaimed cocktail books alongside industry luminaries, including Julia Momosé, Toby Maloney, and Jim Meehan. Her work has been recognized with two James Beard Foundation Awards and two Spirited Awards from Tales of the Cocktail, cementing her influence in spirits writing and education. Emma currently serves as the Midwest Academy Chair for The World’s 50 Best Bars and is a judge for the New Orleans Spirits Competition, bringing her sharp palate, industry expertise, and journalistic perspective to the panel.
Martin Cate
Owner, Smuggler's Cove
Martin is the owner and creator of Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco, one of the world’s most celebrated tiki bars. Recognized for its unparalleled rum selection and masterfully crafted tropical cocktails, Smuggler’s Cove has been featured on the World’s 50 Best Bars List for six consecutive years and was named Best American Cocktail Bar at the 2016 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Beyond the bar, Martin is a leading authority on tiki culture and rum history. He and his wife, Rebecca Cate, co-authored the James Beard Award-winning book Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki, which also earned the 2017 Spirited Award for Best Cocktail Book. His passion for rum extends far beyond crafting cocktails—he is a dedicated rum educator and collector, frequently conducting seminars, tastings, and industry panels to share his expertise on rum production, history, and cocktail techniques. A sought-after speaker and consultant, Martin has played a key role in preserving and advancing the artistry of exotic cocktails and rum appreciation.
