J.R. Starkus has been a key player in Las Vegas’ cocktail industry for over a decade, previously the Director of Mixology Trade Development at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Nevada and now a Director of Business Development. Growing up in Southern California, Starkus set his sights on Sin City at an early age, developing a keen interest in the culinary industry and the opportunities the city had to offer. Starkus is a graduate of the B.A.R.5 Day with the highest level of certification, the Sake Professional course put on by John Gautner and most recently has become WSET L3 Spirits and WSET L3 Sake Certified. He’s also the co-host of “What’s on Tap”, a spirits and mixology show on ESPN radio, weekly.