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Jacky Blisson, MW is an independent wine educator with over two decades of experience in the global wine trade. She was the first Master of Wine in Québec, one of only ten in Canada. During an 11-year sojourn in Burgundy, France, Jacky studied wine science and commerce, working several harvests and managing export sales for a major southern Rhône winery. Since returning to Canada, Jacky has become known for her high-quality wine education and consultancy work. She writes regularly for Quench, Extra-Brut, and Good Food Revolution and has served as a judge for the National Wine Awards of Canada.
Thierry Alcântara is a double certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers. The owner of the Adega Wine Bar in Prince Edward County, Thierry is also a wine consultant and educator, keen on Canadian wines.
Andrew McArthur - While attending Queen’s University, Andrew spent 5 years working at Kingston food institution Pan Chancho Bakery & Café. As his love of food, wine and hospitality grew, he moved to Toronto, attending George Brown College, where he became a certified Sommelier and Frommager. Andrew gained further accreditations including The Court of Master Sommeliers Certified exam and The Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 3. He has held wine director roles at several Toronto restaurant groups, including Chase Hospitality Group and The CN Tower. Andrew is passionate about Traditional Method sparkling wine and a champion of the Ontario wine industry.
