Masterclass Schedule

What if the best wines you’ve never tasted were tucked away high in the Alps? Switzerland may be famous for its cheese and chocolate, but its wines remain one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Join Karina Aggarwal, beverage expert and founder - Gigglewater Beverage Concepts, for Sips of Switzerland—an exclusive masterclass and tasting that uncorks the hidden gems of Swiss vineyards. We journey from the Alpine elegance of Valais to the mineral-rich whites of Vaud, uncovering rare grapes, regional winemaking traditions, and the cultural richness that makes Swiss wines special. Designed for wine professionals, enthusiasts, and curious palates alike, this session offers a rare opportunity to experience Switzerland in a glass—guided by one of the most respected voices in wine education.

Karina Aggarwal Founder - Gigglewater Beverage Concepts

Wine & Spirit Education & Consultant

Bord Bia has developed the Spirit of Ireland, a dynamic training experience to tell the story of Irish spirits. This unique experience combines video material from leading companies in the Irish spirits category, a bespoke sensory experience and virtual reality tours of some leading Irish distilleries. Come join us as we bring you through the remarkable history behind the spirits produced on the island of Ireland and their exciting future.

Michael Jacob Drinks Sector Manager

Bord Bia – The Irish Food Board

Sake is the Japanese fermented alcoholic beverage made from rice with a history of close to 2,000 years. Over centuries, Sake has played an important role in Japanese culture and tradition. Explore various Sake styles chosen from some of Japan’s most reputed & enchanting breweries.

Kunal Kaul DipWSET Sake Sommelier & Educator on behalf of National Tax Agency, Japan

 

The UK Wine & Spirits Masterclass session will showcase the rich heritage and exceptional quality of UK produced wine and spirits. This session will introduce UK brands that are new to India, providing attendees with an exclusive tasting experience and insights into the innovation shaping the UK’s alcohol industry.

Vikram Achanta  Tulleeho, Hosting on behalf of UK Government

 

The world's oldest national association of top wine growers and its unique quality philosophy. What defines the VDP? What values stand behind the VDP.Eagle, and how are they reflected in the wines? In this masterclass, Sonal Holland MW offers an insightful look into the history and philosophy of the VDP and explains the four tiers of the VDP.Classification – from VDP.GUTSWEIN to VDP.GROSSE LAGE®. Using wines from a selected VDP.Estate, this session will demonstrate how origin and craftsmanship shape each quality level and why vineyard sites play such a crucial role. Additional strengths of the VDP wineries are also presented: Pinot Noir, Sparkling, and Riesling Kabinett. A concise introduction for anyone eager to learn more about the VDP and its wines.

Sonal Holland MW On Behalf of

VDP

Think you know whisky? Think again. The world of whisky is evolving — and it’s not asking Scotch for permission. Join WSET spirits experts Charlie McCarthy and Rajan Singh for a spirited exploration of premium drams that defy tradition, challenge expectations, and expand the boundaries of what whisky can be. We’ll dive into the stories, styles, and science behind these rule-breaking drams, uncovering how innovation, culture, and climate are creating flavour profiles that nobody saw coming. Expect a guided tasting, global context, and plenty of spirited debate. Whether you're a bartender, buyer, or brand builder, you’ll leave with fresh insights, global context, and a few drams worth talking about. Expect curiosity, controversy, and a whole lot of character. Because sometimes, the best whiskies are the ones that colour outside the lines.

Charlie McCarthy Business Development Manager – Spirits

WSET

Rajan Singh Brand Ambassador & Sommelier

Fratelli Wines