Liquid Academy Live

1. 10:15–11:00
   Meet the makers

   To Be or Not to ABV

   Taste the best of no and low, meet the makers behind it and find genuinely innovative ways to lift your alcohol-free offer.

2. 11:15–11:45
   Feature

   Homegrown Heroes

   Celebrating Scotland’s own producers, from small craft distillers to large-scale names, and what it takes to grow.

3. 12:00–12:45
   Meet the makers

   The New Maestros of Mixology

   Liqueurs, bitters, syrups, vermouth and garnishes in the hands of top guest bartenders, with colourful drinks for you to taste.

4. 13:00–13:45
   Networking

   Head Bartenders’ Afternoon Tea

   

   A conversation on the future of bartending, with tastings and flash intros to exciting new brands. Goodie bags for the first 50 who sign up and attend.

5. 14:00–17:30
   Live final

   Caledonian Bartenders Cup 2027

   ScotHot’s own cocktail competition final. Bartenders from across Scotland compete live on stage, and the 2027 champion is crowned. Grab a seat early.

1. 10:30–11:15
   Product feature

   Rise of the Machines

   AI, smart software and the latest kit that speed up service behind the bar and across the floor.

2. 11:30–12:15
   Panel

   The Operators’ Table

   

   Scottish Licensed Trade News brings Scotland’s operators together for an honest debate on keeping the doors open: costs, changing guests and finding good people.

   Media sponsor: SLTN

   Bring your questions: live audience Q&A in every debate.
3. 12:30–13:15
   Panel

   State of the Trade

   

   Led by the SLTA and joined by Dave Hunter of the SLTN as host: a frank look at the politics and legislation shaping Scottish hospitality.

   Media sponsor: the SLTA

   Bring your questions: live audience Q&A in every debate.
4. 13:30–14:15
   Tasting · Talk

   Ready to Drink

   Taste the new wave of RTDs and hear how they save time and money without cutting corners on quality.

5. 14:30–15:15
   Takeover

   Brand Takeover

   One partner brand takes over the stage for 45 minutes with a demo, talk or competition of its own. Brand to be announced.

6. 15:30–16:15
   Meet the makers

   The Internationalists

   Brands from around the world arriving in Scotland. Taste, learn and pick up fresh ideas for your menus.

Programme subject to change

Our partners

Headline sponsorSupporting the Liquid Academy Live stage

Host showScotHot, run by 365 Events

Media sponsorThe Operators’ Table & host of State of the Trade

Media sponsorCurators of State of the Trade

Curators & hostsDrink Think presents Liquid Academy Live

See you at the bar

Take the programme with you

PDFs coming soon