Preview: Bar Convent Berlin 2025
Bar Convent Berlin returns to the German city this month. Here are our picks of the show’s unmissable events and brands.
Is there a more anticipated date in the global bar calendar than Bar Convent Berlin (BCB)? While our friends over the pond enjoyed the Brooklyn event in June, and Londoners got a taste of their own show just a few weeks later, the original BCB in the German capital still attracts guests and exhibitors from the world over.
This year’s event will take place on 6-8 October at its usual home of Messe Berlin. Thousands of bartenders, brand ambassadors, and distributors will descend on the city for three days of education and networking. Organised by RX Germany, the 2025 show is set to deliver new formats and forward-looking ideas, all while facilitating vital networking moments.
One of the biggest shifts for 2025 is in the education programme, now under the direction of Priyanka Blah, who works closely with the show’s education board: Eleni Nikoloulia, Damien Guichard, and Maria Gorbatschova.
“BCB is more than just a trade show; it’s a celebration of the entire ecosystem that drives our industry forward,” says Blah. “This year’s programme reflects a thoughtful and well-rounded approach to the challenges and opportunities in the global bar community. I’m most excited about the diversity of voices and ideas – it’s what makes BCB such a powerful platform for discovery and connection.”
Content will be spread across multiple stages and formats – from strategic discussions and interactive workshops to brand-led sessions and national showcases. At the centre of this year’s programme is the reimagined BCB Embassy, designed to merge education, tastings and thought leadership into a single hub.
One panel, titled ‘The Art of the Memorable and the Science of the Measurable’, will feature insights from Edmund Weil, Marian Beke, and Aurélie Panhelleux. Meanwhile, Sipsmith’s master distiller, Jared Brown, will be exploring the cultural and political significance of spirits globally.
The BCB Embassy will be divided into three themes, one per day of the show. First will be the ever-growing trend for Low & No. Day two will focus on the Classics, while day three will look forward to the Next Generation.
To bring these themes to life, the BCB Embassy will feature tastings, workshops, and a working bar. Botanical by Alfonse – which is based in Namur, Belgium – will lead the bar, serving bespoke cocktails inspired by each day’s focus.
“We are so incredibly lucky to have Botanical by Alfonse backing the Embassy Bar this year,” says Guichard. “They represent exactly the core message of the concept: giving a platform not only to brands to showcase their products in a real bar setting, but also to the bar team to express their creativity over the three days of the show. Visitors will get to enjoy drinks served by world-class bartenders from a little town that would not usually be on their radar.”
A new initiative for 2025, Working Wednesday, will dedicate the third and final day of BCB to the next generation of hospitality professionals. Created in partnership with the Deutsche Barkeeper-Union, the programme offers discounted student access, career-focused sessions, and a platform for young professionals to connect with employers.
“I’m thrilled that with Working Wednesday, we’re creating a space where the next generation of hospitality professionals can discover the full potential of this incredible industry,” says BCB’s director, Petra Lassahn. “It’s about inspiration, opportunity, and meaningful connection – both for young talents and the businesses ready to shape the future with them.”
Working Wednesday also aims to highlight the wide range of career paths in the industry beyond bartending – from product development and management to marketing and innovation. By showcasing the diversity of opportunities, BCB hopes to support young professionals to find their place.
Time for wine
Additionally, wine will take on a greater role than ever before. Each day, one session will be dedicated to wine-related content, addressing topics such as wine-based cocktails, low-ABV pairings, pricing strategies, and how to build a profitable wine list.
Many will be pleased to hear that the Agave Embassy will return this year, with scheduling curated by Club Cantina. As well as the activities on the exhibition grounds, a celebratory reception will take place on Sunday 5 October at the Mexican Embassy, with all agave spirits exhibitors invited.
Alongside education, networking remains a central tenet of BCB. The show’s Matchmaking tool will return for 2025, enabling attendees to schedule meetings in advance with relevant contacts, from distributors and buyers to emerging brands and innovators.
And when the show closes for the day, the fun is just starting. Hundreds of bar teams will be descending on Berlin for BCB, with bar takeovers galore in the evening. London institution Nightjar will be taking over Berlin’s Gibson bar, with many more events yet to be announced. With its mix of education, networking and late-night energy, BCB continues to set the pace for the global bar community – and all signs point to 2025 being no exception.
Keep reading to see some of the stands worth stopping by.
Tarsier Southeast Asian Spirit
Stand: 18A55
Based in England but inspired by Southeast Asia, Tarsier will be bringing its range of gins and vodkas to this year’s BCB. Excitingly, the brand will be debuting its new jungle-inspired bottle, which launched in July. Made from custom black glass in Leeds by Verallia, the new bottle is made of 58% post-consumer recycled glass, and features etchings inspired by the textures of bamboo, bark, ferns, and jungle foliage. The design reflects the natural habitat of the tarsier – the primate the brand is named after – depicting a nocturnal jungle filled with life.
“We’re looking forward to meeting our current partners and new export partners, networking with contacts and, most importantly, introducing our relaunch of Tarsier to a global audience,” says co-founder Sherwin Acebuche.
Charter Brands
Stand: 20D48
Distributor Charter Brands will be bringing a host of its products to this year’s show: Langley’s Gin, El Tequileño Tequila, Camarena Tequila, Virginia Distillery American Single Malt Whiskey, Dublin’s Own Irish Whiskey, Redwood Empire Whiskey, Aluna Rum, 80 Proof Liquor, and Levecke.
All eyes will be on Langley’s though, which Charter Brands owns and has rebranded this year.
The firm will mainly be focusing on new business opportunities at the show, whether by selling additional brands into existing distributors or meeting prospecting partners. The company will be taking its valued customers and suppliers out for dinner and, most importantly, it’s a chance for the whole Charter Brands team to come together – with staff from three continents flying in.
Le Philtre Vodka
Stand: 20D35
French brand Le Philtre will be showcasing its organic vodka in both 700ml and 350ml formats at this year’s BCB, alongside three expressions from Arty Spirits – Citroncello, Tomato, and Menthe. Visitors will also be able to discover the brand’s point-of-sale materials and gifting packs.
Le Philtre will also be making a major announcement during the show, which is being kept under wraps for now.
“We are hoping to strengthen relationships with our existing distributors and open up new markets, particularly in Eastern Europe,” says general manager Camille Sebbag-Barjon. “We are also looking forward to discovering innovations at the different stands and meeting the distributors we met last year to conclude a deal.”
Heaven Hill Brands
Stand: PEG20
Heaven Hill will be presenting two brands at BCB: Tequila Ocho and Elijah Craig Bourbon. Although there won’t be any new product announcements, the firm will be hosting its first cocktail competition at its booth from midday on Monday and Tuesday. The contest asks participants to stir an Elijah Craig Small Batch Old Fashioned and shake a Tequila Ocho Plata Tommy’s Margarita simultaneously. The competition will be judged by mixology expert Jeffrey Morgenthaler and Heaven Hill’s ambassadors.
Morgenthaler will also be hosting a masterclass with Heaven Hill on Tuesday at 3.15pm, titled All Classics Are Beautiful; Old Fashioned Meets Margarita: A Love Letter to Timeless Drinks.
Then, on Tuesday evening, Morgenthaler and Heaven Hill’s ambassadors will be taking over the bar at Fabelei, and creating cocktails made with Elijah Craig and Tequila Ocho.
MG Destilerías
Stand: 18B44
MG Destilerías will be showcasing three brands: Coppa Cocktails, Le Tribute Gin and mixers, and Gin MG.
Visitors can expect more than just product sampling – the company has designed an experience inspired by its Barcelona roots. The booth will be transformed into a Spanish-style fruit and flower market.
Among the highlights is the debut of a limited edition Coppa Cocktail: a bold seasonal innovation that also marks the brand’s first step into global travel retail.
“BCB is all about connecting with our importers, distributors and our main advocates: the bartenders,” says Solène Bruna-Fiorentino, head of marketing and communication. “We want visitors to engage with a great brand experience – this show is really about having all our partners and potential leads enjoy the brands and recall them for something very special.”
Three Cents
Stand: 17B28
Premium mixer brand Three Cents will be splitting its stand into two sections at this year’s BCB. One half will highlight its full range of sodas and tonics – including favourites like Pink Grapefruit Soda, Two Cents Plain, and Ginger Beer, as well as its recently launched Ginger Ale. The other half will be dedicated to the brand’s latest expression, Fig Leaf Soda.
Visitors can expect plenty of cocktail inspiration, with renowned mixologist Danil Nevsky joining brand ambassadors Alexandros Sourbatis, Dimitris Kaitalidis, and Maciej Mazur (aka ‘Bobas’) behind the bar.
Palomas will be flowing, while the Fig Leaf Soda section will feature serves such as the Fig Leaf Americano, rum-and-coconut Leaf & Palm and the Figment with Tequila and mezcal.
Tatratrea
Stand: 11.1B08
Slovakian brand Tatratea will be bringing its full range of tea-based herbal liqueurs to this year’s BCB. The company will debut Tatratea 35% Original Light. With lower alcohol and sugar content than the brand’s classic 52% Original, it promises a smoother experience, while maintaining its signature flavour profile.
“We have been on the market for 20 years, and are relatively big in our region,” says export manager Dávid Chovanec. “But for the rest of the world, tea-based herbal liqueur is a rather niche category. Therefore, we have to do constant education about the brand and how to enjoy it. BCB is one of the best platforms for that, as the audience there is always willing to explore and learn.”
GAS Familia
Stand: 17A09
Slovakia’s GAS Familia will be presenting its full portfolio at BCB 2025, including Nestville Whisky and Goral Vodka. The highlight of the stand will be the unveiling of Nestville Whisky Master Blender 2025 16 Year Old, the distillery’s rarest expression to date. The expression was partly matured in casks seasoned with red wine made from the Hron grape, a unique Slovak varietal.
“We always return with unforgettable memories and emotions,” says marketing director Tomáš Mačuga. “BCB is not only a major event but also the realisation of a long-held dream: that whisky from a small distillery can proudly claim its place on the world map of fine spirits and stand alongside the most prestigious brands.”
De Kuyper Royal Distillers
Stand: 18D37
De Kuyper is inviting show attendees to discover its range of pre-mixed cocktails, including its 0.0% product variants. Alongside these highlights, the stand will celebrate the creativity of modern mixology through De Kuyper’s range of cocktail liqueurs.
The company will be showcasing its use of premium botanicals to underline the authenticity and high quality behind every cocktail solution it offers. The team promises both professionals and cocktail enthusiasts plenty of inspiration, with a strong emphasis on exceptional taste, outstanding ingredients, and inventive serving ideas.
“We are delighted to return to BCB Berlin – one of the industry’s most influential gatherings,” says Godelief van Erve, global marketing director. “We look forward to engaging with bartenders and partners from around the world, and to sharing new cocktail inspirations from our broad portfolio of premium cocktails.”
Takamaka
Stand: 20B11
Seychelles-based Takamaka will be showcasing its full rum portfolio, with a special focus on Kreol Cask, the latest addition to its St André Series. The series aims to push the boundaries of traditional rum making, while showcasing the brand’s rich heritage and Creole traditions. Visitors will have the chance to discover the new expression ahead of its wider release across Europe.
The stand will also feature a self-service cocktail bar in collaboration with Barcelona’s Foco, giving guests the opportunity to sample Takamaka in refreshing serves. In addition, the brand will be running an ‘honesty shop’ to raise funds for Equal Measures, a not-for-profit organisation advocating for equity and inclusion in the drinks industry.
Noblewood Group
Stand: 20C34
Noblewood Group is hoping to deepen its presence in the premium bar community at this year’s show, where it will be spotlighting Beluga Gold Line – the brand’s most premium expression.
The vodka is made with a ‘meticulous’ filtration process and a 90-day resting period, with its exclusivity emphasised by its elegant leather box, individual numbering, and signature wax-sealed bottle. Each bottle is accompanied by a hammer and brush to assist with opening.
Alongside its vodka portfolio, Noblewood Group will unveil its first foray into gin: Oyster Adriatic Gin. Crafted with herbs and botanicals native to Montenegro, it will debut in two expressions – Gin Adriatic and Wild Citrus.
Visitors will be able to taste both new serves and Beluga cocktails mixed by the brand’s bartender team.
Neurita
Stand: 17B53
Neurita will use BCB 2025 to officially launch its new flavoured range of 100% agave Tequilas and its blanco Tequila. The event will be the first showcase for both products, which have undergone a redesign and a recipe change. The new Tequilas were developed by an all-women production team at La Huaracha Distillery, led by a female master distiller.
“Flavoured Tequila is no longer a novelty – it’s the future,” says founder Lucy Smith. “Consumers are looking for high-quality spirits that are versatile and easy to enjoy. With our new 100%-agave range, we’re removing the barriers to entry and empowering more people – particularly women – to explore and fall in love with Tequila.”
The team are hoping to meet with distributors at BCB as the brand expands its global footprint.
Mont Blanc Vodka
Stand: 17A34
Inspired by the dramatic landscapes of France, Mont Blanc Vodka takes its name from the tallest peak in the European Alps. Produced with water from the Angeac-Champagne commune, the vodka brand boasts its exceptional clarity, smooth, rounded texture, and subtly velvety taste.
At this year’s BCB, visitors can enjoy the brand’s flagship vodka both neat or in a variety of cocktails, as well as learning more about Mont Blanc’s Botanical range. Grapefruit & Rose delivers a balance of juicy citrus and delicate floral notes, while Cucumber & Mint brings refreshing, crisp flavours.
“This year at BCB, our focus will be on fostering strong relationships with distributors, industry experts and bartenders who influence the future of mixology,” a spokesperson for the brand says.
Maison Ferrand
Stand: 18A07
A world of flavour will be on show at Maison Ferrand’s stand. Visitors can explore the world of Planteray Rum – from bar classics to limited editions and the iconic XO – alongside the full Citadelle Gin range, including Original, Jardin d’Été, and Rouge. Ferrand Cognac will also have pride of place, as well as Ferrand Dry Curaçao in both Orange and Yuzu expressions.
A highlight for the firm will be a masterclass held by its owner and master blender, Alexandre Gabriel, on 7 October at 11.30am. During the session, he will unveil Planteray Rum’s Mister Fogg Sail N°2, a Navy-style rum inspired by historic Royal Navy and London Dock traditions, which have been brought back to life through meticulous archival research and blending methods.
Kaliro Spirits
Stand: 18C11
Kaliro Spirits will be showcasing its trilogy of 9 Di Dante vermouths – Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso – alongside launching an Italian bitter called Terza. This year’s BCB attendees will be among the first in the world to try this latest creation.
By attending BCB, Kaliro aims to build visibility, strengthen its international presence, and connect with bartenders, mixologists, distributors, and buyers from across the industry. The team is eager to explore emerging trends and create new partnerships to fuel global growth.
BCB always has such an incredible energy,” says co-founder Lia Chinyaeva. “It’s where the global bar community comes together, full of creativity and passion. For us, it’s also about meeting people face to face, exchanging ideas, and celebrating this unique spirit together.”
Portofino Dry Gin
Stand: 18D15
Italian brand Portofino Dry Gin will be showcasing Portofino Dry Gin and its La Penisola expression at this year’s BCB. Visitors can also look forward to a special announcement: a new collaboration with the One Ocean Foundation, highlighted through the brand’s dedicated Ocean Cocktail.
The team’s main goal at BCB is to reinforce existing relationships while connecting with new potential partners, ensuring Portofino Dry Gin continues to increase its global presence.
Looking ahead to the show, the team members are eager to see how the industry is responding to the current challenging climate and to join conversations with partners and fellow brands about finding solutions together.
McCormick Distilling
Stand: 17C18
At BCB 2025, McCormick Distilling will present its diverse portfolio, featuring Tequila Rose, Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bourbon, Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur, Broker’s Gin, Hussong’s Tequila, and Platte Valley Whiskey.
The show will also mark the international launch of Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bourbon, which is distilled at McCormick’s historic home distillery in Weston, Missouri, US.
For the team, BCB is an opportunity to connect with existing partners while opening new doors in international markets for its growing brand portfolio.
What they’re most excited about this year is welcoming attendees to the company’s upgraded stand – a reflection of McCormick Distilling’s steady growth and ambitions, year after year.
Alias/Smith
Stand: 17A10 and 17A16
Swedish firm Alias/Smith will be bringing a plethora of spirits brands to this year’s show, including Beso, Tequila Los Tres Toños, Maleza, Santo Cuviso Bacanora, Perra Suerte Raicilla, Nixta and many more.
The firm will be launching five products at BCB: Contraluz Tequila, Almave Humo, Perra Suerte Raicilla, Carlirosa, and Sepulto Mezcal.
“BCB is an incredible stage for us to connect with the industry on multiple levels,” says marketing and brand manager Gabriel Zarzosa. “For our brand owners, it’s the chance to share their stories face-to-face with hundreds of bartenders – the true storytellers behind the bar. For us, it’s a valuable moment to strengthen ties with importers, distributors, and key players across the supply chain. It’s not just about visibility, but about building relationships that move the whole category forward.”
Distillers United Group
Stand: 20D39
At this year’s show, Distillers United Group (DUG) will showcase two spirits that embody Venezuelan heritage and innovation. Canaïma Gin is a premium Amazonian gin distilled with 19 hand-selected botanicals, while Cocuy Saroche is a 100% Venezuelan agave spirit, crafted from an endemic variety unique to the nation.
The team have hinted at some new developments that will be revealed at the brand’s stand this year, which are being kept under wraps.
“Our main goals are to secure a distributor in Germany, reconnect with our European partners, and catch up with great friends across the bar and spirits world,” says marketing manager Laura Soler. “BCB Berlin is always a highlight in the industry calendar – bringing together top bartenders, brands, and innovators from all over the world.”
Auténtico Nativo Rums
Stand: 18A27
Panama-based Auténtico Nativo will be bringing its portfolio of premium spirits to this year’s BCB, including the brand’s rums, Sassita Vibes Flavoured Tequilas and Dogma Tequila Añejo 100% de Agave. The latter two are new to the market, while Auténtico Nativo will be launching Elixir at the show.
The Auténtico Nativo collection includes aged rums matured in ex-Bourbon barrels for up to 20 years. Black Sword, another brand in the portfolio, will also be on show.
“BCB is the perfect platform for us to connect with our importers and meet potential new distribution partners,” says Ricardo Gonzalez, co-founder and head of business development. “We’re excited to share our latest products with an international audience and explore new business opportunities.”
El Supremo Rum
Stand: 20A22
El Supremo will be pouring its five-year-old, eight-year-old, 12-year-old, and 18-year-old double-aged rums, each crafted to showcase the depth and authenticity of Paraguayan rum.
Alongside the portfolio, the brand is highlighting the recent launch of the Tanoa Cruz sling bag at Madrid Fashion Week. Created in collaboration with Spanish designer Canussa Lab, the Tanoa Cruz features a structured silhouette, versatile compartments, and an adjustable crossbody strap. Reflecting El Supremo’s sustainability values, the bag is crafted with upcycled palm waste and will soon be available in travel retail.
At BCB, El Supremo aims to raise global awareness of Paraguayan rum, connect with distributors and trade partners, and underline the heritage and craftsmanship behind its premium expressions.
Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits
Stand: 20B09
This year at BCB, Marie Brizard will showcase the full breadth of its liqueurs and syrups portfolio, including its latest innovations. These include an aperitivo and limoncello – designed to meet demand for the Spritz occasion, as well as new violet and ginger liqueurs, and a kiwi fruit syrup.
This year also marks a major milestone for Marie Brizard: its 270th anniversary. To celebrate, the brand will unveil a limited edition liqueur that blends heritage and modernity, featuring notes of tea, bergamot, lime, neroli, and hibiscus, elevated by a base of Cognac Gautier. “This milestone commemorates our enduring French savoir-faire and expertise since 1755,” says international brand manager Vanessa Grangier.
Havana Club
Stand: 20A07 and 20A11
For a taste of Cuba, head to Havana Club’s two stands. One will be dedicated to the brand’s Icónica Collection, while the other will focus on the core range and sit in Pernod Ricard’s SIP portfolio advocacy initiative booth.
“It’s not about new launches this time,” says global brand ambassador Alfredo Guerra. “But visitors will have the exclusive chance to experience Havana Club Icónica Tributo 2025 at BCB for the first time.” Guests will be welcomed at the stand by Guerra himself, alongside maestro del ron Cubano Asbel Morales.
Guerra adds: “At a time when some brands are pulling back from trade fairs, Havana Club is doubling down. We believe it’s vital to keep nurturing our long-standing relationships with the bartending community and industry partners – the real trendsetters and value creators in the spirits world.”
Bemakers
Stand: 18C12
At BCB 2025, Bemakers will showcase the unique value of its direct distribution platform by bringing brand partners to life on the stand. Over the three days, a rotating line-up of brands from Finland, Italy, the UK and beyond will present and pour, including Norrbottens, Kyrö, The Duppy Share, Arbikie, Yuntaku, and Cordusio. These brands will be able to sell directly from the booth at BCB via Bemakers – a real-time demonstration of how the platform enables producers to trade across Europe.
The company will be promoting and educating on its two arms: Bemakers, a direct beverage distribution platform, and Trade by Bemakers, a wholesale platform that provides trade customers with access to brands.
Brand Venture
Stand: 20B40
Brand Venture will be showcasing its broad portfolio of international spirits and drinks solutions at this year’s BCB.
Visitors can explore everything from mezcal and Tequila to American whiskeys, cachaça, pisco, and ready-to-drink, as well as a ‘unique’ cocktail foamer.
Alongside its established range, Brand Venture will also use the show to spotlight several exciting launches, including Brother’s Bond Whiskey in a new 700ml format, an entry-level mezcal from Nuestra Soledad, a limited edition cachaça, and a new cocktail ingredient that is currently being kept under wraps.
The team say BCB is about more than showcasing products – it’s about strengthening relationships. They hope to use the show to expand their brands’ route to market, and recruit new clients, as well as spending time with partners.
Familia Torres
Stand: 18D13
Spain’s Familia Torres will be showcasing the complete Juan Torres Master Distillers (JTMD) portfolio, including Torres Brandy, Magdala, El Gobernador, Casals Mediterranean Vermouth, and blended Scotch whisky Liathmor.
New to this year’s show is Torres Alta Luz – the “world’s first” cristalino brandy, which the company will be highlighting as a key attraction at its stand.
Another highlight will be Casals, which entered the vermouth market in 2023, and recently launched in the UK – where it has received an excellent reception, according to Familia Torres.
The company describes BCB as an “invaluable opportunity” to explore business opportunities, expand its professional network, and convey the DNA of its brands.
MeMento
Stand: 17C29-19
At BCB 2025, MeMento will exhibit its full portfolio of non-alcoholic botanical distillates, all of which are organic, vegan, and crafted without alcohol, sugar, or gluten.
Its three-strong range includes the original MeMento, which is described as “intense, herbal, refreshing”. Memento Green was inspired by Mediterranean aromatic plants, and is said to have a strong herbaceous aroma and floral palate.
Finally, Memento Blue is made using Mediterranean sea water, as well as botanicals such as clary sage, savory and oregano.
The brand’s founder and CEO, Eugenio Muraro, says there will be no launches at this year’s show. Instead, his focus will be on finding new distributors and potential partners to strengthen non-alcoholic culture in drinking.
Ginplz
Stand: 17A23
All eyes will be on Ginplz’s stand this year, where the Mediterranean gin brand will be hosting its official launch.
Guests at the show will be among the world’s first to taste this small-batch gin distilled in Portugal’s south. The gin is distilled in copper pot stills with a rice-based neutral spirit for “exceptional” smoothness, with botanicals such as juniper, citrus peel, olive leaf, and wild rosemary.
Plus, Ginplz’s sister brands will also have pride of place. The Hong Kong Whisky brand offers seven expressions that reflect the cultural heritage of the region, while Vimieiro Distillery produces Portuguese single malt whiskies, which will be available at BCB as exclusive cask samples.
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