Wednesday 24 February
Meet the makersTo 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.
TakeoverBrand Takeover
One partner brand takes over the stage for 45 minutes with a demo, talk or competition of its own. Brand to be announced.
Meet the makersThe New Maestros of Mixology
Liqueurs, bitters, syrups, vermouth and garnishes in the hands of top guest bartenders, with colourful drinks for you to taste.
NetworkingHead 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.
Live finalCaledonian 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.
Thursday 25 February
Product featureRise of the Machines
AI, smart software and the latest kit that speed up service behind the bar and across the floor.
Panel
Tasting · TalkReady to Drink
Taste the new wave of RTDs and hear how they save time and money without cutting corners on quality.
Panel
FeatureHomegrown Heroes
Celebrating Scotland’s own producers, from small craft distillers to large-scale names, and what it takes to grow.
Meet the makersThe Internationalists
Brands from around the world arriving in Scotland. Taste, learn and pick up fresh ideas for your menus.
Programme subject to change
Caledonian Bartenders Cup 2027
A bartender’s cup, not a drinks cup. Bartenders from all corners of Scotland battle it out live on the Liquid Academy Live stage to capture the Caledonian spirit in a glass. Pre-registration is open now. Entries open Friday 13 November 2026 and close 24 January 2027.
Scott Gemmell, Drink Think
Founder & Curator of Liquid Academy Live and Managing & Creative Director of Drink Think Ltd. Compere of drinks stages at Imbibe Live, Whisky Live, Rumfest, ScotHot, Hotelympia, the BBC Good Food Show and the Volare Global Cocktail Final.


