Dear Distillers and Spirit Makers,

As we gear up for the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards, I invite spirits brands to enter and take advantage of the expanded opportunities this year for the USA’s on-premise spirits competition. We’ve introduced new categories, recognizing the evolving landscape of spirits, along with special awards like ‘Specific Spirit Categories - Distillery of the Year’, 'Spirits Importer of the Year, and an extended 'Distillery of the Year' award, now recognizing excellence by country. 

Categories Included:

The medals will be awarded in the following spirit categories:

• Whisky Distillery of the Year
• Gin Distillery of the Year
• Vodka Distillery of the Year
• Rum Distillery of the Year
• Tequila Distillery of the Year
• Brandy Distillery of the Year
• Cognac Distillery of the Year
• Liqueur Distillery of the Year
• RTD (Ready-to-Drink) Distillery of the Year

These honors highlight the performance of a distillery’s portfolio within each category, emphasizing consistency, innovation, and craftsmanship across multiple submissions.

“The ‘Category Distillery of the Year’ Medals celebrate not just individual products but the incredible work behind entire portfolios. It’s a testament to the dedication and expertise of distilleries that consistently deliver excellence,” said Sid Patel, CEO of Bartender Spirits Awards. Please see here how the Category Distiller of the Year awards work.

This year, we’re also strengthening our judging panel with even more distributors and importers, ensuring brands get in front of key decision-makers. 

Plus, we’re thrilled to introduce the Global Brand Ambassadors who will help grow the awareness of the competition by pushing the category winners in 2025.

Nora Furst (left) and Tural Hasanov (right) are one of the few Global category and regional ambassadors.

With these exciting additions, BSA 2025 is the most impactful competition for the on-premise channels of the USA —register now and showcase your brand where it matters most!

Why We Started the Bartender Spirits Awards

We founded the Bartender Spirits Awards to give spirits brands a direct line to the professionals who shape consumer experiences: bartenders, beverage directors, and on-premise decision-makers. The goal has always been to create a platform that evaluates spirits based on what matters in the hospitality industry—taste, quality, value, and mixability. This approach not only highlights exceptional products but also provides actionable feedback to help brands grow.

There is no spirits competition in the USA like the Bartender Spirits Awards that attract top trade buyers of bars and hotels as judges and reviews brands that are a great fit for the on-premise channels.

The goal here was to bring these amazing brands out to the bartenders and have bartenders give these brands a solid chance in their menu offerings and cocktail programs.

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Who are the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards Judges?

We founded the Bartender Spirits Awards to give spirits brands a direct line to the professionals who shape consumer experiences: bartenders, beverage directors, and on-premise decision-makers. The goal has always been to create a platform that evaluates spirits based on what really matters in the hospitality industry—taste, quality, value, and mixability. This approach not only highlights exceptional products but also provides actionable feedback to help brands grow.

Why the U.S. Market Will Grow in 2025

The U.S. remains the largest and most dynamic spirits market in the world, and 2025 is poised for further growth:

1. Premiumization Continues: Consumers are willing to invest in high-quality spirits with authentic stories.

2. On-Premise Recovery: Bars and restaurants are seeing a strong rebound, offering more opportunities for your brand.

3. Innovation Matters: The demand for unique flavors, craft spirits, and sustainable options is increasing.

4. Consumer Trends: Low-ABV and non-alcoholic spirits are gaining momentum alongside traditional favorites.

5. Cocktail Culture: Bartenders are driving trends and creating new opportunities for innovative brands.

6. The Trump Effect: Overall, the policies that we can expect will ultimately be creating more consumer spending power in USA which will result in growth.

7. Dollar Effect: I personally think the increase in strong US dollar demand, will offset any import duty or tax increases that may come along with increase spending power of a US consumer. The sentiment index of the consumer is selected to stay strong in 2025.

“If you were to ask me which developed market to put focus and money to, I would surely say USA as number#1”. This is the time, i want to capitalize on growing your brand in the USA.

How BTN is Supporting the Industry

The Bartender Spirits Awards is part of the Beverage Trade Network (BTN), a global platform dedicated to helping beverage producers connect with importers, distributors, and retailers. BTN has grown significantly, offering a range of resources, from educational content to networking opportunities, all designed to help brands navigate and thrive in competitive markets. Bartender Spirits Awards will see a solid integration into BTN trade shows and media assets giving entrants a great way to connect with trade and consumers.

Bartender Spirits Awards winners get consumer and trade press and various media assets around the world. Check out the press section here.

A Special Opportunity: Special Entry Deadline Is March 12, 2025

Entering the Bartender Spirits Awards before the March 12, 2025 Special Pricing Deadline ensures your spirits receive:

• Reduced Entry Fees: Save more by acting early.
• Expert Feedback: Get valuable insights from top bartenders and beverage directors.
• Increased Exposure: Take advantage of pre-event promotional campaigns to spotlight your brand.

2025 is your opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most influential spirits markets. The Bartender Spirits Awards is here to help your brand stand out and succeed by giving you the visibility and credibility you need. Join us and make this year the turning point for your spirits.

Submit your entries today, and let’s make 2025 a year to celebrate your success in the U.S. market.

Warm regards,
Sid Patel
CEO, Bartender Spirits Awards

Also Read:
Bartender Spirits Awards Unveils Prestigious “Category Distillery of the Year” Medals
Why Amaro and Liqueurs Belong on Every U.S. Bar Shelf: Insights from Expert Nora Furst
Behind the Bar with Tural Hasanov: Crafting Luxury Cocktails Across Continents