More than 550 spirits industry professionals and media joined the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) in honoring industry leaders at an awards luncheon on June 9 during the DISCUS annual conference at the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans. The event was emceed by Lynnette Marrero, an award-winning New York City-based bartender, mixologist and philanthropist known for co-creating the world’s first all-female speed bartending competition, Speed Rack. DISCUS award recipients included a Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Joy Spence, Master Blender, Appleton Estate Jamaica; the Dave Pickerell Memorial Craft Member of the Year Award to Scott and Becky Harris, Owners, Catoctin Creek Distilling Company; the Humanitarian/Service Award Women of the Vine & Spirits Foundation to Deborah Brenner, President; and the Impact Award for Emerging Leaders to Nicole Austin, General Manager and Distiller, Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. Each recipient was presented with an award created by Vendome Copper & Brass Works.