Credentials & Training
- Formal spirits-education coursework covering distillation, maturation, and cross-category tasting
- Multi-year background in hospitality and fine-spirits retail, including specialty gin and cognac programs
- Multiple visits to cognac houses in the Charente region and rum distilleries across the Caribbean
- Contributing writer on spirits and entertaining for independent publications prior to joining Liquor Geeks
What Ian covers
Ian writes Liquor Geeks’ gin category — contemporary botanical-forward styles, London Dry classics, navy strength, and cask-aged expressions — alongside its cognac coverage (VSOP through XO and beyond, including single-estate releases) and rum programming (cane-juice rhum agricole, Jamaican pot-still, Demerara, and Central American solera). He also leads the site’s gifting and entertaining content: which bottles actually make thoughtful gifts at each price tier, how to build a starter home bar, and how to pair spirits with the moments they’re meant for.
Editorial standards
Ian’s reviews rest on repeated tastings under consistent conditions — typically a Copita or tulip glass, at ambient temperature, with and without a splash of water where appropriate. Gin recommendations are cross-tested in at least two classic cocktails (Gin & Tonic and Martini at minimum) before being written up, because a gin’s behavior in-glass matters more than its neat flavor profile for most drinkers. Ian does not accept sample bottles in exchange for coverage, and brand relationships are disclosed where relevant.
Contact
Reach Ian via the Liquor Geeks support team at support@liquorgeeks.com — include “Attn: Ian” in the subject line for gin, cognac, rum, or gifting inquiries.
