This year, we're proud to welcome three outstanding guests who will share their passion, expertise, and unique perspectives on the world of whisky through the Parade masterclasses and the exclusive opening dinner.
Following inspiring masterclasses in previous years led by renowned whisky experts including Ron Welsh, Mariella Romano, Stanisław Domin, and Conor Sweeney, this year's programme continues the tradition of bringing some of the industry's most respected voices to Riga. Guests can look forward to exclusive insights, fascinating stories, and unforgettable tasting experiences led by internationally recognised whisky professionals.
Billy Abbott
United Kingdom
Billy Abbott (Christopher Jan Abbott) is an award-winning drinks writer, educator and internationally recognised whisky communicator. As Ambassador and Training Manager at The Whisky Exchange, he combines deep industry knowledge with a passion for making the world of spirits engaging and accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike.
A sought-after host, judge and speaker, Billy has led tastings and educational events around the world. His accolades include Icons of Whisky Communicator of the Year (Rest of World) 2021 and IWSC Spirits Communicator of the Year 2026. He is also the author of The Philosophy of Whisky, shortlisted for the Fortnum & Mason Debut Book Award.
A sought-after host, judge and speaker, Billy has led tastings and educational events around the world. His accolades include Icons of Whisky Communicator of the Year (Rest of World) 2021 and IWSC Spirits Communicator of the Year 2026. He is also the author of The Philosophy of Whisky, shortlisted for the Fortnum & Mason Debut Book Award.
Diego Borrás
Spain
Diego Borrás (Juan Diego Borrás Moreno) is a renowned Sherry specialist, independent cask broker, whisky and spirits consultant, and organiser of Whisky Live Madrid. His expertise lies in the historic relationship between Sherry and whisky, with a particular focus on Sherry cask maturation and its impact on aroma, texture and flavour.
As a certified Sherry, Brandy and WSET Level 3 Spirits Educator, he offers a unique perspective on one of the most influential elements in modern whisky production.
As a certified Sherry, Brandy and WSET Level 3 Spirits Educator, he offers a unique perspective on one of the most influential elements in modern whisky production.
Paul Malone
United Kingdom
Paul Malone is an internationally recognised whisky expert and Brand Ambassador for Glenmorangie and Ardbeg, two of Scotland's most iconic single malt whiskies. With years of experience at The Glenmorangie Company, he combines in-depth knowledge of whisky production with an engaging and entertaining storytelling style.
A familiar face at festivals and masterclasses around the world, Paul is known for bringing every whisky to life through fascinating stories, expert insights, and a genuine passion for Scotch whisky.
A familiar face at festivals and masterclasses around the world, Paul is known for bringing every whisky to life through fascinating stories, expert insights, and a genuine passion for Scotch whisky.
→ Last year's masterclasses
Road to an exceptional taste experience: Diplomático Single Vintage Rum
Eduards Trofimčuks
Liviko Brand Ambassador for Latvia
An exclusive invitation to discover one of the world’s most prestigious rums. This masterclass will unveil a refined journey of taste, where craftsmanship, rich aromas, and a unique heritage come together to make Diplomático Single Vintage Rum a true legend.
Irish treasures:
Single Malt and Single Pot Still
Single Malt and Single Pot Still
James Kilgannon
Walsh Whiskey Global Brand Manager
Discover the heart of Walsh Whiskey through two of Ireland’s most beloved labels - Writers’ Tears and The Irishman. Both celebrate Ireland’s unique whiskey heritage by blending elegant single malts with rich single pot stills, creating complex yet approachable styles that embody the spirit of Irish storytelling.
Tērvete:
the first Latvian malt whisky
the first Latvian malt whisky
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Lauris Grass
Whisky and other spirits enthusiast
A journey into the origins of Latvia’s first malt whisky: how a legendary brewing tradition laid the foundation for an exceptional spirit. But this is not the end — rather, only the beginning. For the true beauty of great whisky lies in the secrets of cask maturation. During the masterclass, we will explore the many challenges that had to be overcome for the very first authentic Latvian malt whisky to see the light of day.
Celtic Peata:
Journey through Scotch and Irish
Journey through Scotch and Irish
Ron Welsh
World-class whisky guru
A journey through the peatlands of Ireland and Scotland, shaped over centuries to create the legendary smoky aromas of whisky. We will savor world-renowned Islay greats, crafted over decades under the guidance of our masterclass host, Ron Welsh. He is the man behind the flavor profiles of such iconic superstars as Laphroaig, Bowmore, Auchentoshan, Ardmore, and many more.
There's no smoke
without Ardbeg
without Ardbeg
Oskars Varenbergs
Moët Hennessy Brand Ambassador for Latvia
Oskars will guide guests through the smoky world of Ardbeg. Explore Islay’s peatlands, discover how peat shapes Ardbeg’s character, and dive into the distillation process and the science of smoke. Along the way, taste four iconic expressions — Ardbeg 10YO, Wee Beastie, Uigeadail, and an exclusive preview of the brand-new Ardbeg The Bethir’s Tale 15YO, arriving in Latvia for the first time.
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America in a Glass:
The Michter’s Story
The Michter’s Story
Kenneth Charles
Michter’s Brand Ambassador
Michter’s stands as one of the defining names in American whiskey, with roots reaching back to the 18th century. This masterclass explores the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship through four expressions that showcase its style: the smooth richness of Kentucky Straight Bourbon, the bold spice of Rye, the approachable elegance of American Whiskey, and the historic character of Sour Mash. A journey into tradition and flavor that embodies the essence of American whiskey.
