Rapheephan Naweera, also known as Bew, is the passionate leader behind Wine Aspect. With a solid background in the Thai alcohol beverage industry, Bew is both a dedicated wine enthusiast and a savvy businesswoman. Her pioneering and refreshing approach to retail and activation is transforming the wine retail landscape in Thailand.Wine Aspect integrates every key aspect of the wine import business—from sourcing directly from Chateaux, Domaines, and Négociants to managing the retail and tasting bars in Thailand's major cities. Rapheephan's innovative strategies have elevated wine retail to a new level in Thailand, creating a seamless connection from international producers to local consumers. Under her leadership, Wine Aspect has not only established a significant presence in the Thai market but has also redefined the standard for wine retail and promotion in the country.

Isabelle Legeron, Master of Wine, has been continuing her mission of promoting natural wines through various initiatives. Recently, she launched the UK’s largest online natural wine shop under the brand Raw Wine, offering a wide selection of low-intervention, organic, and biodynamic wines. In addition, she organized a new virtual wine festival called “Alive!” to bring together wine lovers, foodies, and botanical enthusiasts. The festival featured a range of speakers from various disciplines related to natural wines and sustainable practices.
Legeron was previously recognized in The Drinks Business' list of the top 50 most powerful women in wine, a testament to her influence in the industry. She has also been deeply involved in consultancy roles, including working with two Michelin-starred chefs, where she focused on pairing natural wines with fine dining to enhance the taste experience. Isabelle’s dedication to promoting minimal intervention winemaking and her continuous engagement in educational activities have solidified her as a leading advocate for sustainable wine practices.

Jessica Kogan has been instrumental in leading Vintage Wine Estates' growth through her focus on digital transformation. With a background in marketing and e-commerce, she co-founded Cameron Hughes Wine, which was later acquired by Vintage Wine Estates. As Chief Growth & Experience Officer, Jessica has overseen the company's digital convergence, ensuring a seamless consumer experience across multiple channels. She is recognized for her 'why not' attitude, which has helped her overcome the challenges of a male-dominated industry, and for pushing boundaries in traditional wine marketing. Jessica continues to advocate for women's leadership in the industry, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and self-belief.

Clarisse Daniels currently serves as the Global Travel Retail (GTR) Commercial Director at Whyte & Mackay, overseeing operations in regions including the Middle East and Americas. Her leadership has been pivotal in driving the company’s success, especially through its portfolio of premium single malt Scotch whisky brands such as The Dalmore and Jura. She has emphasized the importance of premiumization, helping Whyte & Mackay grow its prestige whisky offerings, such as exclusive single malt collections. Under her guidance, the company doubled its GTR business between 2019 and 2023, continuing a decade-long growth trajectory Daniels has driven the development of unique and immersive retail experiences in the travel retail sector, appealing to affluent travelers. This includes initiatives such as bespoke activations and collaborations that tap into cultural elements like music and art to enhance the brand stories.

Leigh McGrotty, one of the founder members of 15PL Limited. Based in the heart of Scotland, 15PL is a brand-building powerhouse with a unique focus on Scottish food and drink, particularly in the Asian marketplace. The company, now approaching its 11th year, specializes in helping small Scottish drink brands find their way into the Asian market. Leigh reflects on the proud moment when 15PL secured an international contract with DFS, a major luxury travel retail company. This partnership allowed them to train staff worldwide, elevating their position in the competitive whisky market.

Nellie Ming Lee has had a prominent career in Hong Kong's food and wine scene, spanning roles as a consultant for esteemed venues like Olivers and city’super. As a wine ambassador for Jackson Family Wines, Nellie works on expanding the brand's presence and creating educational experiences. She has also contributed her expertise as a columnist for various wine publications, and been involved in food styling for SCMP’s Post Magazine. Beyond her writing and consulting roles, she works closely with restaurants and private clients on wine education and sommelier coaching. Currently, Nellie is studying with the Court of Master Sommeliers, aspiring to achieve the prestigious title of Master Sommelier, which will allow her to further merge her passion for wine and culinary excellence.

Award-winning writer & presenter who specializes in South American wine & travel destinations. For its commitment and passion, for positioning South America wines around the globe. She is the founder of South American Wine Guide ，author and editor of The South America Wine Guide: The Definitive Guide to wine in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia & Peru – a book which has won multiple awards including Best Debut Drinks Book at the Fortnum & Mason Awards, Best World Wine Book at the Gourmand Awards and the John Avery Award at the Andre Simon Awards.Award-winning wine author and regular Decanter South America correspondent, Amanda Barnes has been announced Acting Regional Chair for Chile at Decanter World Wine Awards 2024.

Lettie Teague has been The Wall Street Journal’s wine columnist for 14 years, covering the world of wine from Argentina to Washington state and all the wine countries, regions and winemakers in between. Her coverage on wine ranges widely and includes trends, news and reviews as well as profiles and pet peeves. Her recent work spans from highlighting top wines to exploring emerging wine regions and discussing value-for-money wines. For example, in 2024, she shared a personal list of the best wines worth buying again, based on her extensive tasting experiences throughout the year.Lettie joined Food & Wine in 1997 and during her tenure, she oversaw the magazine's wine coverage and wrote the James Beard Award-winning monthly column "Wine Matters." Lettie was nominated for James Beard Awards two more times for her work at Food & Wine, including for the article "Is Grüner a Great Wine or a Groaner?" She moved on to The Wall Street Journal in 2010 where she writes the weekly columns "On Wine" and "Uncorking the City.“ She is the author of two books, “Wine in Words” and “Educating Peter,” and co-authored and illustrated “Fear of Wine.” Her biography of best-selling children's book author Marguerite Henry, “Dear Readers and Riders,” has been published in May 2024.

Georgia Panagopoulou, known as @wine.gini on social media, is a prominent Greek wine influencer and Key Opinion Leader (KOL). With a passion for sharing her knowledge of wine, she has built a significant online following, making her one of the most influential figures in the world of wine on platforms like Instagram. Georgia regularly collaborates with wineries, wine brands, and tourism boards to create engaging content that educates and entertains her audience. Her influence extends beyond social media, as she participates in wine events and has been featured in various wine-related articles and publications.

Through her award-winning work on TV, radio, podcasting, at events and in print, Susie Barrie MW has a fast-growing international profile. Along with her husband Peter Richards MW, she co-hosts the acclaimed "Wine Blast" podcast, which has gained significant popularity, ranking among the top-10 podcasts globally, including in the US and UK. The podcast discusses a wide range of topics, from wine and food to broader aspects of life, attracting a diverse audience. Listeners span 200+ countries and Wine Blast has been recommended in the likes of The Daily Telegraph, Evening Standard, Radio Times, Decanter and Wine Folly.Susie and Peter also host the annual Wine Festival Winchester, recognized as one of the finest wine festivals in the UK.