Judges

Toshio Ueno is a renowned expert in distilled spirits with experience worldwide. His expertise encompasses everything from production to consumption, whether neat, in cocktails, or paired with food. As a sought-after trainer, speaker, and judge in the alcoholic beverage industry, Toshio provides invaluable insights into various distillates. Introduced to distillation through his family distillery, he laid the foundations of his knowledge through practical experience and formal education, including WSET and various courses at universities. As a sommelier for wine and spirits, Toshio is also the chair of the jury at prestigious competitions, including the International Wine & Spirit Competition and Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Toshio offers seminars under the auspices of WSET, ensuring the highest level of education on alcoholic beverages. He is also a member of the Gin Guild and the advisory board of the Council of Whisky Masters, where he contributes to the development of specialized exams for whisky enthusiasts.