A diverse and captivating array of expert-led sessions specifically created for this premium-education based tasting event.
NEW 2024’ Presentations/Masterclasses
FRIDAY - 4:00-5:00pm - November 29th, 2024 (MC1, MC2)
Canadian Whisky: Explored, Explained, Exposed, Exalted.
Presented by award winning author Davin de Kergommeaux.
MC#1_FRI @ 4:00-5:00pm
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A tale replete with incest, intrigue, adultery, murder, family rivalries, failed dynasties and one phenomenally successful one, the story of Canadian whisky is a liquid history of our country. This remarkably Canadian adventure, populated by the oddest characters, most dedicated craftspeople and more than a few con artists, brims with innovation and brands that still set the pace for whisky and brown spirits globally. With its whisky now in connoisseurs’ glasses worldwide, Canada is poised to reprise the 1950s and 60s Golden Age of Canadian Whisky. But there’s a caution. Tasting includes five whiskies you are unlikely to encounter anywhere else.
BIO:
For over a quarter of a century, Davin de Kergommeaux has been writing, speaking and teaching about whisky. The author of four acclaimed whisky books, he is recognized as the world expert on Canadian whisky and has been named one of the 50 most influential Canadians in food and drink. The New York Times said his significance in the revival of Canadian whisky could not be overstated. In March 2024, in London, England, Davin became only the second Canadian ever inducted into the Whisky Hall of Fame.
Bourbon & American Rye
with Owner & Master Distiller Todd Leopold.
MC#2_FRI @ 4:00-5:00pm
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After joining Davin de Kergommeaux on his 2023 BWE panel, owner, Master distiller and well known American whiskey innovator, Todd Leopold wanted to return and take Banff on a deep journey of Bourbon and American Rye that will celebrate the past and present, with special whiskeys that only Leopold Brothers can offer. Through sheer tenacity, the Leopold Bros. have brought back pre-prohibition style whiskies with the re-creation of the three chamber still that was predominantly used to make whiskey at the beginning of the last century, including here in Canada.
This fascinating masterclass hosted by one of the most passionate whisky makers in the USA will share Todd’s remarkable knowledge of the history of American Whiskey as well as unique samples of modern Leopold Bros. whiskey expressions.
BIO:
Todd Leopold studied brewing at the Seibel Institute in Chicago and interned at several breweries in Germany. before going to distilling school in Lexington, Kentucky. Leopold Bros. is family-owned and operated distillery based in Denver, Colorado and was founded by brothers Todd and Scott from Ann Arbor, Michigan. They currently operates the largest malting floor in the USA, and produces over 20 craft-distilled products, including their famous Three Chamber Rye Whisky from the world’s only operating three chamber pre-prohibition style still that Todd tirelessly researched and brought back to life with the help of the leading manufacturer of American whiskey stills, Vendome Copper & Brass Works Inc., of Louisville, Kentucky.
Now a brewer, malter, distiller, educator and innovator, Todd loves sharing his unique whiskeys with the world to show us why Leopold Bros. has become one of the leading craft distilleries in the United States.
FRIDAY - 5:30-6:30pm - November 29th, 2024 (MC3, MC4)
INNOVATIVE WHISKY, A New Category created by TWO BREWERS w/Dave Gardner.
MC#3_FRI @ 5:30-6:30pm
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Taste what happens when a brewery asks, what if we were to do this with our whisky? Every now and then Two Brewers releases a whisky under the 'Innovative' banner. We chose that word because 'we tried something completely different and put it in this bottle' it did not fit on the label. Come and try some off-beat, off-the-wall, and unobtainable expressions that Two Brewers have released over the years that might leave you wondering - what were these guys thinking and how do i get a bottle?
BIO:
Dave Gardner has been invited back, even after what happened last year!!!
Dave has been connected with Yukon Brewery for over 20 years. He has been there since the thought of distilling was a dream 17 years ago. alongside owner & master distiller Bob Baxter, Dave travels to whisky loving communities all over the world to pour incredible spirits and discuss why Canadian whisky doesn’t have to fit into traditional categories.
Four Corners - Endless Flavours w/Dante Raphael Concepcion Jr.
MC#4_FRI @ 5:30-6:30pm
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In this masterclass, you'll explore the unique flavours of Scotland's four iconic whisky regions: Speyside, Highlands, Islay, and Lowlands. Each whisky in our journey will be expertly paired with specially curated Scottish dishes, designed to complement and enhance the experience. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and diverse tastes of Scotland in this unforgettable session of whisky and food. Perfect for whisky enthusiasts and food lovers alike!
BIO:
Dante has over 16 years of experience in the spirits and hospitality industry, with a large emphasis on education and training. A former bartender turned educator, Dante has written curriculum for numerous bartending schools and consults with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and bars across North America to develop their beverage and logistical operations programs. The National Whisky Ambassador for Diageo Canada. This position allows him to travel throughout the country, facilitating training and hosting masterclasses for consumers.
FRIDAY - 7:00-8:15pm - November 29th, 2024 (MC5, MC6)
Single Grain Whisky, The Forgotten Category -
Presented by Sean Kincaid AKA The Dark Cloud.
MC#5_FRI @ 7:00-8:15pm
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A masterclass for those with a curious palate and an adventurous mind.
The Dark Cloud presents a deep dive into an often overlooked category of whisky that deserves its story to be told. Historically blended whisky ruled the land, a harmonious marriage of grain and malt which catered to the masses. Winds shifted and perceptions shifted to seeing malt whisky as the classy and elegant choice. Grains became overlooked and snubbed as simply "filler" and "cheap" and still to this day, misconceptions are overheard almost daily.
BIO:
Sean Kincaid – The Dark Cloud is the "People's Choice" Canadian whisky guru influencer for 2024. A writer, social media presence, presenter, podcast co-host and whisky nerd, Sean has all the bases covered. Through passion, knowledge and a keen sense for telling the stories of whiskies from across the globe, Sean will engage each person to collaborate on making this masterclass the talk of the festival.
Millstone Old Whisky Extravaganza, with Patrick Van Zuidam.
MC#6_FRI @ 7:00-8:15pm
- NEW UPDATED DETAILS -
Millstone has made huge waves since debuting in Alberta nearly a decade ago. Patrick’s third upcoming appearance at the Banff Whisky Experience is highly anticipated as a revered figure among whisky enthusiasts. Leading Zuidam Distillers, his family’s distillery in the Netherlands since 1975, Patrick has propelled the Millstone brand to international acclaim. This masterclass will mainly showcase 20-year-old and older exclusive single-cask and cask-strength whiskies from over the years, including the new special edition 19-year-old 100% Rye Whisky — a highly anticipated release after Millstone’s third win in a row for World’s Best Rye; 2022, 2023, and 2024. Will this be the 2025 winner? Join Patrick on a journey through Millstone’s finest expressions at what will surely be a highlight of the 2024 BWE!
BIO:
Patrick Van Zuidam, Managing Director of Zuidam Distillers in Baarle-Nassau, Netherlands, has been immersed in the art of distilling since childhood. His father, Fred Van Zuidam, who founded the distillery in 1974, instilled in him the values of quality and craft. Patrick's dedication to standing out in the industry is evident, with Millstone 100 Rye Whisky winning World’s Best Rye for two consecutive years. As his father taught him, true success isn’t just selling the first bottle—it’s bringing customers back for the second.
SATURDAY MORNING - 11:00am-12:30 - November 30th, 2024 (PD7)
Evolving Trends in Canadian Whisky – A Panel Discussion. Presented by Davin de Kergommeaux with special guests Bill Ashburn & Jenna Diubaldo.
PD#7_SAT @ 11:00am-12:30
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Some insist the old days were better; others that today’s innovators keep whisky exciting. One thing is for sure: evolution never ends, and Canada’s whisky lovers are enjoying its rewards. Join Forty Creek’s Bill Ashburn, one of Canada’s most experienced blending masters, as he both honours and challenges tradition, and Jenna Diubaldo, Canada’s newest, brightest and most innovative whisky-making star, as they explore the past, present and future of Canadian whisky in a panel discussion led by Whisky Hall of Famer, Davin de Kergommeaux.
Bill Ashburn is an esteemed Master Blender with more than 35 years of experience in the spirits industry, his vision and leadership have been indispensable in securing Forty Creek’s many accolades including Whisky Maker of the Decade at the 2020 Canadian Whisky Awards. Bill’s commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation of whisky masters has helped define a new narrative for Canadian whisky and earned him the title of Canada Master Whisky Blender of the Year at the New York International Spirits Competition.
Jenna Diubaldo is the Whisky Program Manager at Sons of Vancouver Distillery, overseeing their distillation, maturation, and blending program. The whisky-making team at Sons of Vancouver made history in 2023, becoming the first micro-distillery ever, to win Canadian Whisky of the Year at the highly competitive Canadian Whisky Awards. She completed her certificate in brewing technology at the Siebel Institute and learned to distill at The Distillery School.
For over a quarter of a century, Davin de Kergommeaux has been writing, speaking and teaching about whisky. The author of four acclaimed whisky books, he is recognized as the world expert on Canadian whisky and has been named one of the 50 most influential Canadians in food and drink. The New York Times said his significance in the revival of Canadian whisky could not be overstated. In March 2024, in London, England, Davin became only the second Canadian ever inducted into the Whisky Hall of Fame.
SATURDAY - 1:00-2:00pm - November 30th, 2024 (MC8, MC9, MC10)
Where Land Meets the Sea, A Coastal Single Malt w/Calin Manuel.
MC#8_SAT @ 1:00-2:00pm
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Glenglassaugh is a place where the land meets the sea. Where the senses are awakened, and sweet air mingles with a crack of sea salt. Where luscious waves of tropical fruit are carried on an ocean Breeze. Until they come to rest. At Glenglassaugh, we harness the elements of our surroundings and bring them together to create exceptional coastal single malt whiskies. In every expression, you’ll experience rolling waves of flavour shaped by land and sea.
This masterclass will feature the 3 new core range expressions, a rare Craft Cellars Exclusive Single Cask, selected by Glenglassaugh’s Master Blender, Dr. Rachel Barrie as well as our host; Calin Manuel, will bring 2 secret discontinued bottles from his collection, purchased just before it disappeared forever.
Join us for the first new range+rare Masterclass held in Alberta created specifically for the 2024 Banff Whisky Experience and real single malt scotch lovers.
BIO:
Calin Manuel Senior Activation & Engagement Manager – Breakthur Beverage Canada. With many years in the industry, Calin Manuel is proud to represent the entire Brown-Forman family of Brands. As a Certified Whisky Ambassador & WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits accredited, his expert knowledge of world whiskies stem from a lifelong love for oak-aged spirits. His alcohol beverage career began in a retail outlet, where variety & discovery consumed him. Calin honed his presentation skills & gained hands-on experience helping others understand the history, production, nosing, tasting, creating cocktails & cultural influence spirits have in society. He leads Canada whisky education; training colleagues, industry partners, trade, & consumers. Calin’s ability to encourage & engage with consumers is best-in–class, his outgoing & friendly demeanour fosters valuable conversation & learning. He believes in making sure everyone has a positive experience & leaves with a new appreciation for Brown-Forman spirits. Representing Brown-Forman here in Alberta & beyond, Calin passes along his passion & knowledge to all that listen & taste.
Are you an Uisgephile? with Dr. Don Livermore.
MC#9_SAT @ 1:00-2:00pm
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Whisky lovers (uisgephile) attending Dr Don Livermore’s Master Class will get a historical understanding why blending was such a critical development to the Canadian whisky category. A deep dive into the science of rye and how the flavours interact with highly aged whisky. This Master Class will introduce three whiskies from the JP Wiser’s decade series including the highly acclaimed 42 year old whisky. Lot 40, 100% rye whiskies, will also be featured with unique cask finishes including the third in the cask strength exploration series in cherry wood.
BIO:
Dr. Don Livermore is the Master Blender of Hiram Walker & Sons Limited in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. He is responsible for some of Canada’s award-winning whiskies such as JP Wiser’s, Lot 40, and Pike Creek. After graduation in 1996 from the University of Waterloo with a degree in microbiology, Don started his career at the distillery as a lab technician. At that time Don pioneered the development of NIR for fermentation analysis. This transformed how the distilling industry monitored fermentations and has spoken around the world on this topic. Don furthered his education by completing a MSc and PhD in Brewing in Distilling at Heriot Watt University with a focus on how wood interacts with whisky. In 2012, he became the Master Blender of Hiram Walker Distillery and in 2019 and in 2020 he won the Canadian Whisky Master Blender of the Year at the Canadian Whisky Awards. Today, Don is a sought-after speaker on Canadian Whisky as he brings together all facets of distillery operations and maturation processes and how flavours are developed in whisky. He created the Canadian Whisky Flavour Wheel© which is a unique perspective on blending whisky. Always an educator and industry expert, Don published two books in 2022; The Canadian Whisky Master Class Volume 1 – The Keeper of History and The Canadian Whisky Master Class Volume 2 - Blending 101.
Crafting A Rye Whisky
Presented by the Founder of Dillon’s Distillery, Geoff Dillon.
MC#10_SAT @ 1:00-2:00pm
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Join us for an exclusive masterclass with Dillon's Small Batch Distillers founder, Geoff Dillon. Dive into the rich history of Dillon’s and learn about our unique approach to crafting award-winning rye whisky.
In this immersive experience, you'll learn about our commitment to using 100% Canadian rye grain, and our hands-on approach to mashing, fermenting, distilling, and aging in small batches at our Niagara based distillery.
Taste the journey from grain-to-glass as you sample our unaged rye spirit and explore the nuanced flavours from our new Ontario oak, new American oak, and first fill bourbon casks. Then put your newfound knowledge to the test as you blend your own unique rye whisky.
BIO:
Geoff’s fascination for spirits began early. He was highly influenced by his father's passion for fine spirits and his worldly spirits and whisky collection. His distilling journey began at the University of Western Ontario, where he earned honours in a double major in biology and economics. His experience only furthered as he trained abroad (in areas such as Scotland, and US) while educating himself in the art of distilling. Eventually, Niagara lured Geoff home as the ideal place to put down some roots. Small-town friendliness, abundant fruit, a close proximity to neighbouring wineries and a well-established wine culture — the region was a perfect fit. Geoff founded Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers in 2012 and has been a pioneer in the craft spirits industry in Ontario and Canada, as one of the founding members of the Ontario Craft Distillers Association in addition to leading the way for change in the government licensing and taxation on small distilleries in Ontario.
SATURDAY - 2:30-3:30pm - November 30th, 2024 (MC11, MC12, MC13)
ALBERTA BO(U)ND Part 2 – Alberta craft distilling rising stars.
Presented by Dolph Shaw alongside a hand selected team of AB craft stars.
MC#11_SAT @ 2:30-3:30pm
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The BEST “taste of place” whisky Masterclass in Canada.
Here, you will learn more about Western Canadian Craft Whisky than any other place in the world. Although AB has chosen not to use the “bottled in “bond” determination; we make our Craft whiskies as big, as bold, and as complex as they get.
In this most interactive Masterclass, each guest will have the rare opportunity to engage the master distiller / blender / owner of the 5 most “up and coming” craft distilleries in Alberta/Canada. Straight from the cask, their golden elixir will bathe your palate, steeping you in their unique history; all while you learn of the vision and the motivation of these captivating craft entrepreneurs.
Come share their unique stories and the whiskies that have been released specifically for this limited edition class!
BIO:
Dolph Shaw (thespiritofedmonton.ca) is as homegrown as it gets. A Calgarian, Banffite and Edmontonian who is a secondary teacher by trade, and whose passion has poured over to the wonderful world of whisky. Dolph is the President of the Alberta Scotch Society, the creator of The Canadian Whisky Journey and The International Whisky Journey where he has interviewed over 100 distillery owners, blenders, distillers and industry leaders. He is also the creator of the original online Whisky Book Club where he has interviewed the likes of our beloved Davin de Kergommeaux, Blair Phillips, Lew Bryson, Ian Buxton, Dom Roskrow, Pip Hills (SMWS), Andrew Jefford, Billy Abbott, Carlo De Vito, David McNicoll, Robin Robinson, Fionnán O’Connor, Brian F Haara, Daniel Bee, David Stirk, Nicholas Morgan, Hans Offringa, and most recently Ralfy Mitchell. His passion has been documented on YouTube and Facebook Live for your viewing enjoyment.
Gordon & MacPhail - Over 125 Years in the Making
Presented by Richard Urquhart.
MC#12_SAT @ 2:30-3:30pm
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Established as a grocery business in 1895 in the heart of Scotland’s Speyside region, Gordon & MacPhail originally curated all manner of groceries from around the world such as teas, coffees, wines and whisky. Their appreciation of the rich tapestry of flavours they encountered led the founders, James Gordon and John Alexander MacPhail, to seek out and complement this varied stock with equally fine produce in the form of Speyside’s many and varied single malt Scotch whiskies. Over 125 years later, Gordon & MacPhail are driven by a simple mission: to create single malt whisky of exceptional quality. Join us in Banff and explore deep into Gordon & MacPhail’s vaults with us as we experience the fruits of this vision with whiskies from all corners of Scotland. In fact, for this special event we have specifically chosen whiskies from every single region of Scotland, and we've gone well past 125 and will be tasting over 180 years worth of whiskies from G&M's extensive library including a 25 year Linkwood, 30 year old Glen Scotia 1991 and 53 year old Glenburgie 1967. Hosting this tasting will be Richard Urquhart, 4th Generation family member of Gordon & MacPhail.
BIO:
Richard Urquhart is a member of the fourth generation of the Urquhart family, owners of Gordon & MacPhail. Established in 1895 and based in Elgin in the North of Scotland. Gordon & MacPhail bottles over 300 expressions of single malt under various ranges including Connoisseurs Choice, MacPhail’s Collection and Cask Strength. In 2022 the company launched the world’s most exclusive single malt, Generations Glenlivet 80 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail. Richard joined Gordon & MacPhail in 2009. His career therel started by spending two years working through all departments within the business. Richard became a Keeper of the Quaich, a prestigious society whose purpose is to recognize those that have made an exceptional contribution to the Scotch Whisky Industry.
The Dalmore’s Still Life -
Presented by Emma Coady.
MC#13_SAT @ 2:30-3:30pm
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Embark on the discovery of what makes The Dalmore’s new make spirits so unique, that in turn create the exquisite Single Malt Whisky that is The Dalmore. This interactive experience will transport you to the Highland Distillery’s Still House for a sensory experience that will tickle your tastebuds with samples of our New Make Spirits, a 3D visual of our idiosyncratic stills, and the sounds that make the distillery unique.
The Dalmore’s Still Life is designed specifically for Whisky Enthusiasts, and by bringing a little piece of our Distillery to our guests, we’re able to ensure an unrivalled unique Masterclass.
Alongside our new make spirits, some limited edition The Dalmore whiskies will serve as the perfect finale for the most anticipated whisky event of the season.
BIO:
Emma Coady started her career in the hospitality industry when she was only 15, working in various restaurants, wineries and eventually moving into a Sales Representative for Wine & Spirits. She had the opportunity to travel to Scotland in fall of 2022 and visit many of the Whyte & Mackay distilleries. Feeling inspired by the craft of whisky making, the extensive history and beautiful stories from these distilleries, Emma knew she wanted to pursue a career in whisky. In 2023, she became the Single Malt Specialist for Whyte & Mackay in Canada, representing incredible Scotch brands such as The Dalmore, Jura, Fettercairn and Tamnavulin.
SATURDAY - 4:00-5:00pm - November 30th, 2024 (MC14, MC15, MC16)
Wood Anatomy & Kaiyo Whisky- Presented by Jeffrey Karlovitch.
MC#14_SAT @ 4:00-5:00pm
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Immerse yourself in the exploration of the anatomy of wood and whisky. Journey with Kaiyo Whisky’s Master Blender, Jeffrey Karlovitch, on his quest to create one of the best whiskies in the world.
During this masterclass, he will guide you through an in-depth look at oak. First looking at the various species of oaks, what makes Mizunara oak distinct from French and American oak, their nuances, grain tightness, and oxygen transfer rates. You will then explore the effects of toast and char on the wood as well as the environmental and climate factors and maturation techniques, and their effects on the finished whisky.
From there, deep dive into the world of Kaiyo Whisky and the Master Blender’s mission to use the best ingredients, best wood, best maturation techniques, and best environments to create to great whiskies, and how the brand become the leading authority in Japanese Mizunara oak. What was once an undesired and forgotten oak for casks, today, Japanese Mizunara is not only appreciated but revered and valued for its rarity and luxuriousness. Jeffrey will discuss how Mother Nature’s work and a bit of serendipity exposed the mysterious spirit and character of Mizunara.
BIO:
Jeffrey Karlovitch, Master Blender of Kaiyo Whisky and co-founder of LHK, is considered one of the top whisky experts in the world. He has provided consulting services for many major brands before a whisky is released in the U.S., has worked with various Scotch and Japanese whisky brands, and as a Master Blender, his palette is regarded as one of the most refined in the industry.
Jeffrey has over twenty years of experience and study in blending and whisky creation. Also, a Master of Wood, he has dedicated his career to the study of cask and maturation techniques with the ongoing pursuit of creating the perfect whisky. Jeffrey is known as one of the leading authorities in Japanese Mizunara oak.
A member of the Keeper of Quaich, he is also a current Board member. Jeffrey holds one of the largest private whisky collections in the world.
Tasting the Untamed Whiskies of Scotland – Presented by Graham Ewart and Stuart Davidson of Cask 88.
MC#15_SAT @ 4:00-5:00pm
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Cask 88 are back with another mind blowing presentation. The team will be discussing off a flurry of Scotland’s rarest single cask whisky, independently bottled by Cask 88.
The “Untamed Whiskies of Scotland” tasting presentation will shine a light on Scotland’s finest independent single cask expressions released over the last few years by Cask 88. With over a decade of experience and dozens of award-winning rare and old whiskies released around the world, the team is back with a bold direction “it’s what we do so it’s what we’ll bring to Banff. Whisky without compromise, from Cask to Glass”.
BIO:
Graham Ewart – Whisky Consultant and Portfolio Director. Edinburgh born Graham hails from the world of fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels. This was where he found his love for great food, fine wine and especially whisky. Graham spent years building and rebuilding whisky lists for luxury restaurants in Edinburgh. He puts his whisky knowledge down to two things, exposure to wonderfully varied whiskies and practice.
Secrets of the Uncommon/Untasted
w/Dante Raphael Concepcion jr.
MC#16_SAT @ 4:00-5:00pm
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This is your chance to taste the untasted! Sample an exclusive selection of rare, never-before-released whiskies from iconic distilleries like Caol Ila, Lagavulin, Talisker, Oban, and more.
Prepare for a whisky experience like no other! Join National Brand Ambassador Dante Concepcion as he guides you on a thrilling journey into the unknown with Diageo’s 2024 Special Release collection.
But this is no ordinary tasting—can you crack the mysteries hidden within each glass? You and your fellow whisky adventurers will need to work together to unlock the Secrets of the Uncommon. Do you have what it takes to reveal what’s hidden behind these exceptional drams? Join us on November 30th, and find out. This is more than a tasting. It’s a challenge. Are you ready?
BIO:
Dante has over 16 years of experience in the spirits and hospitality industry, with a large emphasis on education and training. A former bartender turned educator, Dante has written curriculum for numerous bartending schools and consults with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and bars across North America to develop their beverage and logistical operations programs. Dante's thirst for knowledge serves him well as National Whisky Ambassador for Diageo Canada. This position allows him to travel throughout the country, facilitating training and hosting masterclasses for consumers and product consultants of the LCBO, SAQ, MBLL, BCLS, NSLC and Duty Free.
Dante is also a founding partner of Dash1 Group, a full-service creative hospitality agency whose main goal is to: Grow, Educate and Aid in the Creative Development of the Hospitality Industry.
