The Showcase
The DISCUS Annual Conference Innovation Showcase highlights the creativity and ingenuity of players in the spirits industry. The “Shark Tank” style process seeks to discover and feature pioneers developing innovations across the entire spirits arena in areas including, but not limited to packaging, technology, supply chain, sustainability, marketing, social responsibility, and product development, among many others.
Register
Watch the DISCUS Innovation Showcase live on November 5 at 1:00PM ET to learn about these innovations and see the judges in action as they evaluate the most exciting new ideas in distilled spirits. Then following the showcase, come here to vote for your favorite! Public voting will be open for one week and equal to one judge. Don’t miss your chance to weigh in on the action!
The Finalists
The Judges
Colin Blake, Vice President, Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates – Colin Blake has more than 15 years of experience in the spirits industry and a creative background in film and design. He previously served as Director of Spirits Education at Moonshine University, where he taught over 300 classes and helped launch more than 300 distilleries worldwide. He is the founder of the Stave & Thief Society, the official education program of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Colin has been recognized by Wine Enthusiast Magazine and Business First for his contributions to hospitality and spirits education.
Brian Christensen, Publisher, Artisan Spirit Magazine and Brand Consultant, Glencairn Crystal – Brian Christensen is the co-founder of Artisan Spirit Magazine, the largest distilling trade publication in the United States, now distributed in 44 countries. He also serves as a brand consultant and U.S. representative for Glencairn Crystal, a leading producer of premium glassware. Brian is passionate about distilling education, industry safety, and consumer engagement, and is the driving force behind initiatives such as The Society of Spirit and the Still Talking Podcast.
Cristina Costa, Head of Adult Beverage, Inmar Media – Cristina Costa is a seasoned commerce marketing leader with over 15 years of experience in digital advertising. As Head of Adult Beverage at Inmar Media, she develops strategic programs for CPG and Adult Beverage suppliers and agencies. Her career includes roles at Yieldbot, Catapult Marketing, Mosaic, and Diageo’s eCommerce team, where she deepened her expertise in the beverage alcohol space. Cristina holds WSET Level 1 certifications in both Wine and Spirits and is a recognized thought leader who frequently presents at industry events.
Ian Perez, Brand Execution Manager, MHW – Ian Perez leads brand execution at MHW, supporting clients in launching new-to-world spirits brands and managing complex supply chains. With nearly 15 years of experience in food and beverage innovation, Ian holds degrees in Food Science and Innovation and International Procurement and Supply Chain Management. His recent work includes projects for Cascade Moon, George Dickel x Leopold Brothers, and New Dawn Whiskey.
The Prizes
Through a panel of judges and peers, top innovators will be awarded prize packages ranging in value from $5,000 to $20,000 including a $10,000 cash prize for the showcase winner to support their creative endeavors.
Prize Packages
- 3rd place: complimentary tradeshow booth at the next DISCUS Conference and media exposure
- 2nd place: all prizes for 3rd place and 1 year of DISCUS Membership up to $5,500 in value
- 1st place: all prizes for 2nd place and $10,000 cash prize
- Top finalists all receive one free ticket to the DISCUS annual conference.
Past Winners Hall of Fame
2025 Winners
- 1st place: Reservoir Distillery; Virginia Heritage Grain Project
- 2nd place: Modern Cooperage
- 3rd place: Dapper Barons
2024 Winners
- 1st place: Devil’s Cask
- 2nd place: TAPI USA
- 3rd place: Sothern Glazer’s Wine and Sprits
2023 Winners
- 1st place: Steric Systems
- 2nd place: Brother Justus
- 3rd place: Voodoo Scientific
2022 Winners
- 1st place: SoMax
- 2nd place: Bacardi
- 3rd place: TAPI USA
2021 Winners
- 1st place: Lallemand DistilaBact LP
- 2nd place: Siponey
- 3rd place: Pratt Industries
