In association with Imbibe
What’s on at Imbibe Live 2019?
Between 1-2 July, those involved in the drinks industry, will be able to immerse themselves in everything from trailblazing seminars and unique tastings, as well as having opportunities to meet some of the biggest names in the sector.
Thousands of attendees, from sommeliers and buyers to owners, managers, publicans and bartenders will converge on London’s Olympia to discover the latest trends and newly launched products developed to excited consumers.
Visitors to the event will have a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and peers, as well as network to puck up new tips on how to improve their businesses.
Returning to the show this year will be a tailored programme of insightful talks and tasting sessions to inspire and delight visitors in seven sector-specific theatres.
The talks are curated in partnership with Imbibe Live’s newly announced industry ambassadors, including Monica Berg, Christine Parkinson, Mitch Adams and Tom Oliver.
New to the show this year will be the Chef’s Table, a new theatre focusing on the magic of food an drinks pairing.
Chef’s Table will be hosted by industry heroes such as founder of the Larder House Restaurant & Library cocktail bar James Fowler, as well as Heidi Bjerkan, chef-owner and founder of Credo.
Each of the experts will show how to make food and drink work together with the aim of elevating the consumer experience.
Also at the show:
- Beer & Cider Hub: Brooklyn Brewery’s Brewmaster Garrett Oliver explores what extra ingredients such as cherries and coffee can add to a beer.
Award-winning author, broadcaster and The Morning Advertiser columnist Pete Brown, will discuss the sensory association between beer and music, and how licensee holders can best marry the two, while beer ambassador Mitch Adams explores how bitter and porter have stood the test of time.
Jonny Mills of Mill Brewing, the highest-rated brewer on Untappd, will be in conversation with world-renowned cider maker and cider ambassador Tom Oliver on the fertile crossover territory between beer and cider, while the Ciderologist Gabe Cook will officiate as cider takes on beer and wine to see which is the best match with cheese. - The Winemakers Cellar: a series of masterclasses and tutored tastings, aimed at sommeliers and senior wine pourers, will be hosted here.
This year’s schedule includes Opus One, Ata Rangi, Pol Roger and Trimbach masterclasses and focus tastings on Gamay and English still wines. - The Cocktail Lounge: will feature the show’s very own action-packed mixology lab with appearances from Pietro Collina from New York’s NoMad Hotel; mixologist and Tequila ambassador Megs Miller; and the owners of Sheffield’s most popular underground speakeasy-style bar, Public.
- The Tasting Room: Prepare to have your taste buds awakened with these masterclasses spanning the entire drinks spectrum: from Méthode Champenoise Cider, Low ABV wines to low ABV cocktails, Cognac and London-based spirits.
- Centre Stage: Playing host to demonstrations and competition finals with the event’s legendary on-trade competition returning for its final year, as bartenders and sommeliers battle it out live for the ultimate crown.
As ever, Imbibe’s show floor will span the width and breadth of Olympia, exposing visitors to the best wines, spirits, beers, ciders and many other drinks products.
Imbibe event director Lindsey Coleman said: “For our 10th anniversary, we want to do something special, and that’s why we will be showcasing the latest product innovations spanning beers and ciders, wines, spirits and soft drinks from the UK on-trade industry.
“Visitors will also be able to benefit from our unique speakers and demonstrations, which range from the modern icons of cocktail making, to the edge of the beer and cider universe.
“We’re excited to return to Olympia London for what will be a jam-packed two days of education and entertainment, as we look ahead to the next decade at the heart of this industry.”
Get your ticket to Imbibe Live 2019
Who is exhibiting at Imbibe?
Exhibitors including Euroboozer – a leading UK importer of fine speciality craft brewed beers – will showcase its work with the best young UK breweries, including Magic Rock, Northern Monk, Cloudwater, Great Heck and Tiny Rebel.
Duvel Moortgat, Hofmeister and Krombacher return to represent some of Europe’s finest brews, while DraughtMaster from Carlsberg UK will demonstrate how to keep draught beer pure and fresh, from brewery to glass.
And, with Brits buying a record 164m bottles of sparkling wine in 2018, Exton Park Vineyard – an award-winning English sparkling wine producer – will reveal its award-winning range, including its Exton Park Brut Reserve NV, Exton Park Rosé NV and Exton Park Blanc de Noirs NV.
When it comes to the UK spirits scene, Imbibe has it covered. With more than 50 exhibitors confirmed to showcase their wares, attendees can join brands such as Beluga Vodka, The Boatyard Distillery, The Three Stills Company, Moet Hennessy and Mast-Jägermeister UK.
And soft drinks producers will reveal how to cater for the growing number of consumers turning away from alcoholic beverages, in favour of healthier alternatives.
Soft drink brands including Britvic Soft Drinks, Cawston Press and Franklin & Sons will join the line-up, while Fever-Tree, Buzbees Beverages, Lixir Tonic and Schweppes will refresh attendees with their extensive range of tonics and mixers.
