Sid Patel and Ankita Okate welcome attendees, set the tone for the event, and share insights on what to expect from this year’s sessions and networking opportunities.

Speakers:

• Sid Patel
• Ankita Okate

Dr. Liz Thach, MW, presents the latest data and insights on market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging opportunities in the wine and spirits industry.

Speaker:

• Dr. Liz Thach, MW, Master of Wine, President of Wine Market Council

Top winemakers from leading organizations discuss their criteria for selecting bulk wine, trends in purchasing, and tips for suppliers looking to work with them.

Speakers:

• Emily Haines, Winemaker at Trinchero Family Estates
• Todd Ricard, Senior Winemaker at Constellation Brands
• Brandy Andes, Senior Winemaker at Constellation Brands
• Vasile Nicolau, Senior Winemaker at E. & J. Gallo Winery

Sarah Renteria shares proven strategies to successfully market and position private label wines to national retailers, including what buyers expect and how to stand out.

Speaker:

• Sarah Renteria, Manager at Hillstone Restaurant Group

An expert panel of beverage directors discusses best practices for creating and launching beverage programs tailored to on-premise chains, with insights into trends and challenges.

Speakers:

• Carly Bateman, Director of Operations, Darden Restaurants
• Piero Procida, Director of Food & Beverage, Four Seasons
• Pam Schwartz, Chief of Everything, APS Hospitality Group, LLC
• Sarah Renteria, Manager, Hillstone Restaurant Group
• Courtney Bunn (Hamblin), CSW, Director of Operations, Loews Hotels & Co

Horst Mueller discusses best practices for managing shipping and logistics for bulk wine and spirits, with a focus on efficiency, compliance, and cost-saving strategies.

Speaker:

• Horst Mueller, Global Head VinLog, Kuehne + Nagel

Adam LaZarre and Christian Deakin dive into the technical and market aspects of dealcoholized beverages, exploring trends and product development strategies.

Speakers:

• Adam LaZarre, Director of Winemaking, Wine Hooligans / BevZero
• Christian Deakin, Product Development Manager, Wine Hooligans / BevZero

A keynote presentation featuring groundbreaking techniques and advancements in winemaking and quality control.

Speakers:

• To be announced

Industry experts share tips on optimizing sales and partnerships within the on-trade sector.

Speakers:

• To be announced

Retail specialists discuss strategies for building successful placement programs for bulk and branded products, focusing on collaboration between suppliers and retailers.

Speakers:

• Kimberly Shannon, Beer, Wine & Liquor Specialist, Giant Eagle, Inc.
• Kristen Zuver, Director of Purchasing, Bounty Hunter Wine and Spirits
• Bert Svensson, Wine, Beer, Spirits Manager, AVP, Pavilions Rancho Santa Margarita

Michael Hoefling discusses the importance of sustainability in the wine and spirits industry and how brands can adapt to evolving consumer preferences and environmental challenges.

Speaker:

• Michael Hoefling, Client Advisor, Vinfolio

Ian Perez walks attendees through the process of creating and launching a successful beverage alcohol brand, covering branding, compliance, and market strategies.

Speaker:

• Ian Perez, Brand Execution Manager, MHW