Unveiling the Insights and Innovations of Winemaker

Join Jeremy, as he uncovers the passion and journey of a Canadian winemaker. Hear about the opportunities and challenges of our terroir, how/why bottles are priced and what new trends you should be looking out for. Moderator Jeremy Bonia, Sommelier/Co-owner, Raymonds & Chair of the Board, Restaurants Canada Speaker Drea Scotland, Winemaker, Paradise Grapevine

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Never Gonna Give You Up! Canadians Committed to Coffee

Presented by Dairy Farmers of Canada. Would you order a braised pork latte? How is Asia influencing coffee innovation? Who knew home baristas were going to become a thing?! We’ll share detailed data and insights and talk about trends and innovations in coffee. Moderator Robert Carter, President, Coffee Association of Canada Speakers Nick Gibson, CPG…

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From Filling Pints to Filling Seats: A Beer Leadership Panel

Presented by Beer Canada. Get the word from the top about economic recovery after a downturn. Beer executives discuss how the K-shaped economy affects consumer spending and what that means for beer sales. Examine the increase in take-home sales and discuss strategies to increase on-premise. Learn about the many brand initiatives and programs designed to…

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Keynote: Andre Hueston Mack

Andre Hueston Mack, who just this year was proclaimed ‘one of wine’s most inspiring people’, is a true wine Renaissance Man. After escaping the corporate world, he worked his way to Head Sommelier at Chef Thomas Keller’s 3 Michelin-starred Per Se restaurant before once again making a radical change and founding Mouton Noir Wines (now…

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Corks & Grooves, The Vinyl Revolution In Bars

Vinyl’s resurgence in contemporary culture speaks to its enduring appeal. Pairing high-end audio with wine/cocktail is a harmonious — and perhaps a marketable — combination. Call them industry veterans, call them DJs, or call them just people who want to discuss the process of opening a listening bar and building an incredible music program. More…

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Wine Pairing with Caribbean & Indian Cuisine

Presented by Taste With Tash. Join Natasha, from Taste With Tash, as she takes us on a sensory adventure that celebrates the rich tapestry of Caribbean and Indian cuisine while breaking down the different wine pairing and flavor profile possibilities that can Level Up every bite! Speaker Natasha Samuels, Owner/Founder, Taste with Tash

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Cold, Hot, Slushed, Boba, Sprinkles, and more!

Unlock the growing appeal of specialty drinks. Gen Z’s affinity for afternoon libations is influencing the rise of distinctive and flavourful beverages. We’ll look at cultural shifts driving the trend, and discover how consumer preferences are leading to industry-wide innovation. Moderator Cheryl Hung, VP Insights, Dig Insights Speakers Jordyn Posluns, National Marketing Consultant – Beverage…

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Mentorship in the Bar World

Like other skilled craftspersons, bartenders benefit from having a mentor. An experienced and trusted advisor can pass along advice, education and practices that will help you hone your skills and techniques. Discover how to find a mentor, how to be one, and how mentors can improve not only your own know-how but also raise bar…

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Scaling of Bar Concepts

Growing beyond a single location can be more than a daydream. Our accomplished panelists share tactics and tips for scaling up your operations and can help you turn your idea into a solid strategic plan. From changes in decor to tweaks in your bar program, if you’re thinking about expansion, this panel is for you.…

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Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake

An introduction to the James Beard Award-winning book Rice Water, Earth: Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake, with Toronto-based co-authors Nancy Matsumoto and Michael Tremblay. Our talk will include an overview of the basics of sake: what it is, how it is made, and how to serve and drink it, as well as a…

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