WhiskyFest returns to the Big Apple in just eight days, and aside from the drams and good times, one of the best things about the event is the chance to connect with distillers, blenders, founders, and brand ambassadors from around the whisky world. This year, Japanese blenders will be in attendance: Jota Tanaka, master blender at Fuji-Gotemba, maker of Fuji whisky; and Hiromi Ozaki, senior blender at Nikka Whisky, whose whiskies include Yoichi, Nikka Coffey Grain, and Coffey Malt.

Arriving from Scotland is Dewar’s master blender Stephanie Macleod, who also oversees the single malts from Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Royal Brackla, and The Deveron. Elsewhere, master distiller Joseph O’Sullivan, formerly of McCarthy’s, will be manning the Minden Mill booth throughout the night. Whisky Advocate has more on the master distillers and blenders set to showcase their work at the event.