Bartender Spirits Awards is pleased to announce that Kiki Avalos, one of the most accomplished bartenders in the USA who recently won the 2024 US Tastemaker of the Year at the USBG (United States Bartenders' Guild) will join the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards judging panel.

Kiki Avalos is a Cincinnati bartender with a background in fine arts. They were awarded the 2024 US Tastemaker of the Year at the USBG Presents World Class Top 30 competition. They have been featured by Imbibe and Punch during their twelve years in the hospitality industry. Kiki has been teaching cocktail classes and managing the catering program at their current position with Homemaker’s Bar and Fifty Fifty Gin Club.

You can follow her on Instagram to see her cocktails and get updates from her on mixology.

About Bartender Spirits Awards

The Bartender Spirits Awards aims to identify and celebrate the best spirits for the on-premise sector in the U.S. Under the tagline, "Judged By Bartenders, Bar Managers, and Buyers For The On-Premise Industry," the competition provides a platform for spirits brands to gain recognition in this highly competitive market.

The goal is to offer independent and honest reviews for spirits brands targeting the U.S. bar trade. The judging panel is made up of renowned bartenders, bar managers, and buyers with deep expertise in the on-premise industry. This makes the competition an essential resource for bartenders, bar managers, and bar owners when making purchasing decisions for their venues.

The Bartender Spirits Awards recognizes that bartenders are the true influencers in the spirits industry. Their tastes and trends often drive the creation of new drinks, and their recommendations help guide consumer choices. By understanding the preferences of bartenders and bar managers, spirits brands can position themselves more effectively in the U.S. market.

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Why Enter the Bartender Spirits Awards?

Winning at the Bartender Spirits Awards gives brands a competitive edge by elevating their profile in the U.S. on-premise sector. This competition is a trusted source of reference for the industry’s decision-makers, and the recognition gained here can open doors to new partnerships and opportunities.

Take Advantage of Super Early Bird Pricing

Submissions for the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards are now open, with a Super Early Bird pricing of just $175 per spirit available until October 31, 2024. This is an excellent opportunity for distilleries to showcase their products to a global audience and receive valuable feedback from industry experts.

Enter your spirits now to secure your place in the competition and take the first step towards international acclaim.

Both international and domestic wine submissions are now open. International wineries without U.S. importers will receive assistance with shipping and obtaining COLA waivers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your brand and connect with key decision-makers in the spirits industry.

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