The Bartender Spirits Awards (BSA) is thrilled to introduce its latest ambassadors for 2025: Zachary Faden, representing the Bourbon category, and Tural Hasanov, specializing in Asian spirits, including Baijiu, Soju, and Shōchū. These two exceptional professionals bring unmatched expertise and passion to the competition, further elevating its status as a premier platform for spirits excellence in the on-premise sector.

The Bartender Spirits Awards is designed to recognize the best spirits for bars, restaurants, and mixologists worldwide. With judging criteria that focus on quality, value, and packaging, the competition serves as a key guide for on-premise buyers seeking standout spirits. The introduction of ambassadors like Zachary and Tural underscores BSA’s commitment to connecting brands with the right audience through expert insights and industry leadership.

From history books to cocktail bars, Zachary Faden has built a career as rich and complex as the Bourbon he represents. A trained historian turned award-winning bartender, Zachary brings a storyteller’s perspective to the world of spirits, blending craft and narrative in every pour.

Currently serving as Spirits Concierge at The Bourbon Concierge and previously as the Director of Spirits Curation and Education at the Museum of Distilled Spirits, Zachary’s expertise extends far beyond the bar. His accolades include winning the 2017 Tales of the Cocktail Official Cocktail Competition, earning runner-up in 2018, and being recognized among Bombay Sapphire’s Top 100 Most Imaginative Bartenders in both 2018 and 2019. He has also been a Woodford Reserve Manhattan Experience regional finalist three years in a row.

As BSA’s Ambassador for Bourbon, Zachary will spotlight America’s iconic whiskey category, delving into its heritage, versatility, and relevance in modern mixology. His passion for education and storytelling ensures producers entering the Bourbon category will benefit from invaluable insights into what makes a standout spirit for the on-premise market.

Winner at Bartender Spirits Awards 2024

With over a decade of international experience, Tural Hasanov has mastered the art of creating world-class beverage programs that combine technical expertise with cultural authenticity. Currently the Beverage Director of Arts Club and Punch Room at The Tampa EDITION, Tural has honed his skills across prestigious properties, including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and W Hotels in Dubai, the Maldives, and Greater China.

Tural’s impressive credentials include being a Certified Specialist of Spirits, a Certified Whisky Professional, and a Certified Sake Sommelier, alongside certifications in WSET wines and spirits. His numerous accolades include the title of Mixologist of the Year (2020, That’s Shanghai) and Best Drinks – Outstanding Food and Beverage in an International Golf Tournament. His recently published book, DISTILLED. MY ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BEVERAGES has already won international recognition as a “Best Publication” by the Gourmand Awards.

As BSA’s Expert on Asian Spirits, including Baijiu, Soju, and Shōchū, Tural brings a wealth of knowledge to a category that’s rapidly gaining global attention. His mission is to educate producers and bartenders alike on the artistry and complexity of Asian spirits, bridging cultural traditions with modern mixology trends.

Judging at Bartender Spirits Awards

The Bartender Spirits Awards is not just a competition—it’s a gateway to the on-premise market. Spirits are judged by leading bartenders, mixologists, and beverage directors, ensuring that every winner meets the practical needs of bars and restaurants.

By entering, producers gain:

1) Expert Feedback: Receive actionable insights from professionals like Zachary and Tural, who understand the intricacies of their categories.

2) On-Premise Recognition: Showcase your brand to key decision-makers in bars, restaurants, and hotels.

3) Marketing Support: Winners gain exposure through BSA’s extensive media and trade networks.

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The Bartender Spirits Awards 2025 is shaping up to be its most exciting year yet, with the inclusion of ambassadors like Zachary Faden and Tural Hasanov bringing deeper category expertise to the competition. Whether it’s Bourbon’s rich history or the rising prominence of Asian spirits, this year’s competition promises to celebrate the diversity and creativity of the global spirits industry.

Producers, this is your moment to shine. Submit your entries and let your spirits be judged by some of the most knowledgeable experts in the industry.

Also Read:
Introducing the First Batch of Ambassadors and Experts for the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards
Bartender Spirits Awards Unveils Prestigious “Category Distillery of the Year” Medals
Bartender Spirits Awards Announces Press Partnership with Beverage Master Magazine