LUCIANA SALINAS
Attorney, Malkin Law
Age: 37 First industry job: An alcohol beverage attorney Favorite drink: Wine, without a doubt
With an international academic background, like studying in the U. S., Argentina and Italy, Luciana Salinas brings a uniquely cross-cultural understanding to a globally connected industry.
Salinas was introduced to the beverage alcohol industry through her passion for wine, especially the product itself, the winemakers and the regions behind them.
“ As that interest grew, I began looking for ways to apply my legal background to the industry, which ultimately led me into alcohol beverage law,” she says.“ Before that, my first formal step into the field outside of law was enrolling in my initial WSET course.”
Salinas’ passion resulted in her earning WSET Levels 1 & 2. She even completed Levels 1 & 2 with Italy’ s National Organization of Wine Tasters( ONAV).
At Malkin Law, Salinas demonstrates strong internal leadership by mentoring paralegals while delivering exceptional, nuanced client service. She represents the future of beverage alcohol law by not just serving the industry but actively participating in it, understanding the passion, stories and practical realities behind every bottle.
“ My biggest achievement thus far is being able to successfully bridge both sides of the industry,” Salinas says.“ I’ ve found a way to combine my appreciation for the product itself with the legal work that supports it, while staying connected to the day-to-day intricacies of the industry.”
Because Salinas invests deeply in understanding products, production techniques, terroir and market positioning, she provides legal counsel that goes far beyond interpreting the law— she offers guidance that supports sustainable business growth while keeping clients firmly compliant. Her ability to translate complex regulations into actionable strategies has made her a trusted partner to both emerging and established brands.
Salinas’ advice to other young professionals in the industry? Follow your passion.
“ Start with what genuinely interests you,” she advises.“ Rather than trying to follow a strategic path, let your curiosity guide you, as it often leads to the most interesting opportunities.”
BRITTANY MCCARTHY
National beverage manager, dining division Paradies Lagardère
Age: 34 First industry job: Hostess at age 20 at a local steakhouse called Carvers Favorite drink: Any drink my husband hands to me after a long day!
As the national beverage manager for Paradies Lagardère’ s Dining Division, Brittany McCarthy is reshaping the airport beverage experience— an often overlooked yet high-volume segment of the industry. She champions programs that introduce travelers to local craft spirits, regional wines, artisanal cocktails and global beverage trends, bridging the gap between traditional airport offerings and the modern, experiential hospitality consumers today expect.
McCarthy leads the strategic direction of beverage programming across the company’ s portfolio, including the award-winning proprietary wine bar brand, Vino Volo. Her responsibilities include shaping a guest-forward, operationally sound beverage experience that blends innovation with consistency, supporting both national partnerships and local relevance.
After beginning her Vino Volo journey at Sacramento International Airport in 2015, McCarthy was quickly recognized for her ability to craft thoughtful guest experiences and cultivate team talent. Promoted to general manager in 2020, she led multiple airport locations, chaired the GM Summit Committee, opened new units, strengthened supplier relationships and trained teams across the country.
In her national role, McCarthy drives the beverage identity for all Dining Division concepts, aligning operational execution with brand strategy, expanding supplier engagement, enhancing training standards, and leading large-scale initiatives such as national LTO programs, and the development of the 2025 – 2027 Adult Beverage Program. Her influence has elevated consistency, compliance, quality and guest satisfaction across the portfolio.
What’ s more, McCarthy’ s work with suppliers strengthens industry collaboration and creates opportunities for brands to showcase innovation in high-traffic environments. She integrates zero-proof options, premium wine flights, chef-driven cocktail development and culturally relevant beverage storytelling— raising the bar for what airport dining can deliver.
18 2026 BEVERAGE INFORMATION GROUP 40 UNDER 40