• L.A. Spirits Awards' Lead Low- and No-alcohol Spirits Judge
• Leading expert on spirits, cocktails, and the history and culture of spirits and drinks
• Advocate for responsible, mindful drinking and for non-alcoholic cocktail recipes in the non-alcoholic spirits movement
• Author, Mindful Mixology, on the subject low- and no-alcohol cocktails
• Director of Education for Spiritless

Derek’s passion for spirits and cocktails has taken him across the globe where he’s studied the integral role that food and drink play in culture, customs, and values of communities worldwide. Derek is also a leading advocate in the bar industry for no- and low-alcohol cocktails and mindful drinking. Until recently, Derek was owner of the renowned Columbia Room bar in Washington, DC.