Insights For Bartenders, On-Premise Spirits Buyers and Spirits Brands

U.S. Bartender of the Year Alexis Ortega Joins Bartender Spirits Awards Judging Panel

02/09/2026 Philadelphia bartender Alexis Ortega will bring his award-winning creativity, technical precision, and active on-premise experience to the Bartender Spirits Awards judging panel in Chicago.

Jared Sowinski, Upward Projects Beverage Director, Joins 2027 Bartender Spirits Awards Panel

02/09/2026 The nationally influential beverage buyer brings experience overseeing wine, spirits, beer and cocktail programs across a rapidly expanding multi-state restaurant group

World Class U.S. Finalist Elliott Reibert Joins Bartender Spirits Awards Judging Panel

02/09/2026 Chicago bartender and Tales Scholar Elliott Reibert will bring his nationally recognised cocktail expertise and active on-premise perspective to the Bartender Spirits Awards judging panel.

Yacht Life Vodka: Building a Luxury Spirit Around the Art of the Good Life

17/08/2026 A Florida vodka brand brings yachting culture, thoughtful design, and bartending into the premium spirits world.

The Next Chapter of Asian Whisky Is About Identity, Not Imitation

24/07/2026 For much of the past two decades, conversations about Asian whisky have centred on one question: Can it compete with Scotch?

Bartender Spirits Awards Launches Exclusive On-Premise Buyer Intelligence Report For Entrants

08/07/2026 Every Bartender Spirits Awards entrant will receive complimentary access to the report as part of their competition entry.

More Feedback and Transparency For Entrants At The Bartender Spirits Awards

06/07/2026 More Feedback. More Transparency. More Behind-The-Bar Insight.

Bartender Spirits Awards