2026 Biennial Conference
Scroll down to see full conference details!
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
Join us for a pink-boot-powered Scavenger Hunt through New Orleans!
Grab your conference crew and explore the city together as you solve clues, discover local gems, and connect with fellow members along the way. This self-guided adventure is designed to take about 3.5–4 hours, with 5–10 minute walks between each stop, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the journey (and maybe a snack or two).
How it works:
-
Form your team: Minimum 2 people, maximum 6 people per team
-
Register online: Complete the Registration Google Form and include your team name
-
Registration deadline: Wednesday, January 28 at 5:00 PM
-
Game details: We’ll email your scavenger hunt clues and instructions at 10:00 AM on hunt day
Whether you’re in it to win or just along for the laughs and memories, this scavenger hunt is the perfect way to experience New Orleans, Pink Boots style.