2026 Biennial Conference
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Start the conference with your right boot forward with an evening Welcome Event at Port Orleans Brewing Co. sponsored by WSET Global. Connect with fellow Pink Boots members, build new relationships, and enjoy appetizers and light bites provided for registered attendees. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a head start on networking before the official sessions begin.
7pm-9pm CST
Pre-Conference WSET Classes For Pink Boots Members
Wine Educate is partnering with Pink Boots to offer a series of WSET Level 1 classes in New Orleans in the days leading up to the conference. Pink Boots members and conference attendees receive 30% off these classes by using the discount code BOOTS at checkout.
These classes are ideal for anyone working in beer, wine, spirits or hospitality who wants a solid, globally recognized foundation in beverage knowledge.
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines
Date: Sunday, January 25, 9:00 - 5:15
Location: The Independent
This is a beginner friendly, one day course that covers the basics of grape growing, key wine styles, how to taste wine using the WSET Systematic Approach and practical tips for food and wine pairing. It is perfect for anyone working in hospitality or retail, as well as curious wine lovers who want a structured starting point.
Date: Monday, January 26, 10:00 - 5:00
Location: The Sazerac House
This one day course introduces the main spirit categories, from vodka, gin and rum to whisky and tequila, along with how they are made, how to taste spirits systematically and how to talk confidently to guests or customers. It is designed for bartenders, servers, retailers and anyone who wants a clear framework for understanding spirits.
Date: Monday, January 26,
Location: Port Orleans Brewing Co
This class offers a structured introduction to beer styles, ingredients, brewing methods and tasting technique. It is taught by Mirella Amato, Master Cicerone, Grand Master BJCP judge and award winning author, widely regarded as one of the leading beer educators in the world. This is a rare chance to learn beer tasting and theory from a true specialist in a working brewery.
Tuesday, January 27th Session/Speaker Details
Wednesday, January 28th Session/Speaker Details
Scavenger Hunt – Details Coming Soon!
This year, we’re switching things up with a New Orleans–themed scavenger hunt on Thursday! Instead of a traditional field trip, teams will explore the city together, completing fun challenges and capturing their progress on social media.
Gather a group of at least two, put your creativity to the test, and see if your team can be the first to finish the list. A special prize will be awarded to the winners, but everyone will walk away with new memories and connections.
The official scavenger hunt list and rules will be released the morning of the event—stay tuned for all the details!