Event Recap: Mixology Matters: Industry Edition
We recently turned the spotlight from plates to glasses as Mixology Matters: Industry Edition brought together the city’s best and brightest from the drinks world to Custom House. Under the creative direction of Liquid Minds’ Jack Weir and Emily Doherty, they brought six live demos, and five panels blending innovation, insight, and a serious sense of local pride.
The heart of the event? Six signature serves, each crafted with ingredients grown, brewed, or produced in Northern Ireland. From spirits to syrups, every pour backed up what local looks and tastes like at its best. Guests connected with the makers behind the ingredients - showing that the region’s drinks scene is as collaborative as it is competitive.
Panelists from Maine, McConnell’s Irish Whisky, Serac Ice, Daisies and Apple Tree Farm delved into the practicalities and challenges of sourcing, building supplier relationships, and innovating without losing touch with tradition - even the importance of ice selection for cocktails. The discussions explored how every element matters - showing that crafting premium cocktails is all about considering each detail to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
The Producer Showcase gave every attendee direct access to the makers, growers, and creators shaping the taste of Belfast’s drinks scene, leaving everyone ready to put fresh ideas to work in their own venues.
Mixology Matters delivered more than great drinks - it served up new connections, creative energy, and a blueprint for building a more vibrant, resilient drinks industry right here in Belfast.
Featured producers included: Copeland Distillery, Killowen Distillery, McConnell’s, Longbridge Drinks, Apple Tree Farm NI, Maine, Steeper Culture, Blackfire Foods, Drayne’s Farm, Burren Balsamics, White Star Coffee, Mussenden Salt, Bethany Fruit Market, Sweet G’s Honey Bees, Kinsale Mead Co., Irish Hedgerow, and more..
At Belfast Flavours, we’re here to connect with producers, champion local and sustainable food, and build the skills that strengthen our city’s hospitality scene. Backed by Belfast City Council and DAERA, we’re helping today’s professionals and tomorrow’s leaders collaborate, innovate, and put Belfast firmly on the map as a world-class food destination.
