Master Distillers and Blenders Set to Add Sparkle to WhiskyFest New York

WhiskyFest returns to the Big Apple in just 10 days, and aside from the drams and good times, one of the best things about the event is the chance to connect with distillers, blenders, founders, and brand ambassadors from around the whisky world. This year, three Japanese blenders will be in attendance: Jota Tanaka, master blender at Fuji-Gotemba, maker of Fuji whisky; and Hiromi Ozaki, senior blender at Nikka Whisky, whose whiskies include Yoichi, Nikka Coffey Grain, and Coffey Malt.

Arriving from Scotland is Dewar’s master blender Stephanie Macleod, who also oversees the single malts from Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Royal Brackla, and The Deveron. Elsewhere, master distiller Joseph O’Sullivan, formerly of McCarthy’s, will be manning the Minden Mill booth throughout the night—the Nevada-based distillery launched last year and now has a lineup that includes bourbon, rye, and American single malt. Representing the local scene is Celina Perez, master distiller of New York City’s own Great Jones Distillery. Two founders—Lisa Derman of infused-bourbon brand Five Springs and Markus Kypreos of Fort Worth, Texas-based grain-to-glass Blackland Distillery—will also be on-site.

Tequila fans will also have the opportunity to meet master distiller Leon Banuelos, who will share his reposado, blanco, añejo, high-proof blanco, and reposado-based espresso Martini. And for cigar lovers, there’s also a special treat: second-generation Cuban-American cigar maker Ernesto Perez-Carrillo will be handing out Casa Carrillo Cigars throughout the night.

Tickets are available here. We look forward to seeing you at the New York Marriott Marquis on November 14th!