Episode 8

Beyond the Drink: Iain McPherson Studied Gelato - Then Became One of the World’s Best Bartenders (S12/Ep.08)

Published on: 5th November, 2025

Iain McPherson is one of the most respected people in the bar world today - and his story starts in a lucid dream. He was recently named Best International Bar Mentor, while his bar took home awards for Best International Bar Team and World’s Best Cocktail Menu at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, Iain has reimagined what’s possible behind the bar, pioneering freezing techniques that have inspired bartenders around the globe. He shares how studying at Gelato University became the unlikely turning point in his career, and why curiosity and never settling are among his core values. Iain also opens up about his passion for mentorship and sharing Scottish culture through the Panda Highland Games. Enjoy this episode as we go Beyond the Drink… with Iain McPherson.


This season of #BeyondtheDrink is brought to you by Fords Gin, - the cocktail gin.


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About the Podcast

Beyond the Plate
Culinary Legends, Giving Back
Join Andrew “Kappy” Kaplan as he sits down in-person with the world’s culinary elite to explore their journey into the food industry and the social impact they have made in their community. Every episode will share inspiring stories of what it means to be in today’s hospitality industry.

About your host

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Andrew Kaplan