IWSC Emerging Talent Awards: Maria Eugenia Harttig Named 2026 Spirits Communication Winner

IWSC news

Thu 16 Apr 2026

By Zoe Cunliffe

The IWSC is delighted to announce Maria Eugenia Harttig as the winner of the 2026 Emerging Talent in Spirits Communication Award. Selected from a strong global field of communicators, Maria stood out for her distinctive voice, multi-platform reach, and her commitment to making spirits education accessible to diverse audiences. 

This year’s judging panel, Kristiane Westray, Billy Abbott,, Reece Sims, and Will Morris, praised the breadth and creativity of entries, noting Maria’s work as particularly impactful for its clarity, cultural context, and practical relevance to both trade and consumer audiences. 

A multi-platform communicator 

Maria is the founder of Minas Whisky, and Quercus Academy, an academy delivering educational spirits experiences, and the host of Destiladas podcast  exploring spirits culture, production, and storytelling with warmth and authenticity. Her content blends education with entertainment, connecting audiences across social media, longform writing, and in-person events. 

Within just a year, Maria has: 

  • Developed educational programs and tastings through Minas Whisky and Quercus Academy 

  • Reached over 14.6k Instagram followers, with key posts achieving over 45,000 views  

  • Built a digital and real-world community around spirits, fostering engagement and discussion  

Why she was selected 

The judges were impressed by Maria’s ability to combine technical knowledge, creativity, and audience engagement: 

  • Clarity across platforms: She translates complex information into accessible narratives without losing depth  

  • Practical impact: Her reach across digital and in-person channels demonstrates real influence  

  • Professional development: Maria will use the £2,500 IWSC travel bursary to complete her WSET Level 3 Spirits qualification, overcoming geographic barriers to formal education  

‘Maria communicates with warmth and clarity, making complex topics accessible while retaining depth. She’s a rising voice with international potential.’ - Billy Abbott, IWSC Judge 

"She combines technical expertise, creativity, and a genuine desire to educate - exactly what this award recognises." - Kristiane Westray, IWSC Judge 

Shaping the future of spirits communication 

Maria’s work reflects the evolving landscape of spirits communication: 

  • Authentic and relatable: Avoids elitism while maintaining credibility  

  • Culturally aware: Highlights stories behind spirits and their traditions  

  • Inclusive and accessible: Connects trade, enthusiasts, and casual audiences alike  

  • Innovative multi-platform approach: Combines social media, podcasts, and in-person events to maximise reach  


Maria told us what winning this award means to her: "Without a doubt, this trophy is a milestone in my career. Winning the Spirits Communication category is something truly major. For almost ten years I have worked to diversify voices and make the world of spirits more accessible. This recognition, also, feels like a way of showing many professionals that it is possible, that with hard work and commitment you can grow."

Through Minas Whisky, Quercus Academy, and Destiladas, Maria is broadening the conversation around spirits and demonstrating the power of education as a tool for inclusion and engagement. 

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