Mark Ridgwell worked with many of the world’s leading spirit companies. The pinnacle of his corporate career was launching Maker’s Mark outside the US. In 1999 Mark set up Taste & Flavour, a passionate network of speakers and spirit enthusiasts. A Musketeer of Armagnac, appointed Cognac Educator, Consul of Tequila and Wine and Spirit Education Trust Approved Programme Provider, Mark worked with WSET to create its Level 1 Award in Spirits, a unique vocational spirit and liqueur qualification.

Michael Butt began his career working as a bartender at some of London’s finest cocktail bars before setting up Soulshakers, a London-based drinks consultancy firm responsible for the drinks menus at some of the city’s best bars and restaurants.

‘An informative, easy to read book for the novice and good reference to the expert.’

Colin Hampden-White, Newsletter of the Circle of Wine Writers