Our vision was to create a transformative brand journey that elevated the global bartending community while deepening their connections to each other and Johnnie Walker's heritage and innovation. From luxury airport transfers to bespoke welcome gifts featuring personalised notes from global brand ambassador Tim Philips-Johansson, every detail was meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable trip. Day 1 of the festival seamlessly wove together exclusive distillery experiences at Glenkinchie including tastings hosted by Ewan Gunn and Tristan Stephenson, competitive yet friendly challenges at The Walker Cup, and world class highballs based on the six cardinal flavours of Johnnie Walker. In the evening, guests enjoyed The Blue Banquet, a multi-sensory dining experience where each course harmoniously paired with Blue Label tastings. The banquet kicked off with a welcome drink designed by World Class 2024 winner Keegan McGregor, who later made a surprise appearance. The ’Belle O'Pop' was another stand out serve, comprised of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Conference pear, Champagne elixir, verjus, oolong & burnt orange, bottled and presented like champagne and served chilled in ice buckets. The Weekender continued with a takeover of Johnnie Walker’s brand home at Princes Street, featuring three career-propelling seminars hosted by renowned industry leaders such as Johnnie Walker master distiller Dr. Emma Walker and Iain McPherson, founder of the iconic Edinburgh bar Panda & Sons. The evening began with a curated cocktail walkover through Edinburgh's best bars, where guests enjoyed drinks from custom Johnnie Walker menus. The final crescendo was a Johnnie Walker Black Ruby themed afterparty at iconic Edinburgh venue The Caves, on ‘Whisky Row’. With Johnnie Walker serves on tap and a suite of legendary Scottish DJs including Optimo Espacio, the world’s bartending elite danced, drank, and revelled beneath ancient stone arches. For the final gathering, everyone came together at Hawksmoor for a family style brunch and farewell celebration. Amidst heartfelt awards, bartenders departed Edinburgh with a renewed commitment to building a stronger, more progressive bartending community and a reinvigorated passion for Johnnie Walker.